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Testosterone Test
Testosterone Test
This blood test helps people of all sexes and their healthcare provider check total testosterone levels for potential abnormalities - including hypogonadism (i.e., low testosterone) and hyperandrogenism (i.e., high androgen levels, like testosterone). Testosterone levels may affect sex drive, fertility, energy, muscle mass, body fat distribution, and bone density. Read moreTest details
Sample type:
Blood
Preparation:
Overnight fasting is required for this panel (10-12 hours without food).
Because testosterone levels are usually highest in the morning, it is recommended that you schedule an appointment to have your sample collected early in the day.
What
Measures the level of testosterone in the blood.
Who
Must be 18+ years of age to purchase.
How
Blood
Schedule an appointment, then visit a Quest Diagnostics patient service center location.
About the Test
Testosterone is often referred to as “the male sex hormone”, but it is also produced in (and important for) females. In males, testosterone helps regulate sex drive and erectile function, muscle mass and strength, body fat distribution, bone density, and sperm production. In females, the role of testosterone is only partially understood, but it helps produce estrogen and may help regulate how eggs develop in the ovaries. Abnormal testosterone levels in both males and females may result in changes to your overall health and physical appearance.
Testosterone testing may provide insights to men experiencing symptoms of hypogonadism (i.e., low testosterone) - which are associated with aging and medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. Testing may provide insights to women experiencing symptoms of hyperandrogenism (i.e., high androgen levels, like testosterone) – which are associated with medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
With Quest, you can buy a testosterone test online and get testing at a nearby location – no doctor’s visit required.
How it works
questhealth.com offers 100+ consumer-initiated Quest Diagnostics lab tests to empower you to have more control over your health journey. Choose from a variety of test types that best suit your needs.
FAQs
Hypogonadism in males is a condition in which the body does not make enough testosterone. Symptoms in males can include:
- Decrease in sex drive
- Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection
- Decrease in muscle mass
- Bone weakness
- Breast tissue development
- Hair loss
- Difficulty with memory and concentration
- Decrease in testicle size
- Decrease in semen production causing fertility problems
Hypogonadism can occur if:
- Your testes are not making enough testosterone
- Your brain does not signal the testes to make enough testosterone
- You are taking medication or are undergoing cancer treatment that changes the amount of testosterone that your body makes
Abnormal testosterone levels can be caused by various factors, including age, lifestyle, and certain medical conditions.
Symptoms of low testosterone in males can include:
- Decrease in sex drive
- Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection
- Decrease in muscle mass
- Bone weakness
- Breast tissue development
- Hair loss
- Difficulty sleeping
- Difficulty with memory and concentration
- Decrease in testicle size
- Decrease in semen production that can lead to fertility problems
Symptoms of high testosterone in males can include:
- Elevated blood pressure
- Heart or liver problems
- Headaches
- Aggressive behavior
- Excessive body hair growth
- Acne
- Prostate enlargement
- Decrease in sperm production
- Insomnia
Symptoms of low testosterone in females are not well characterized. Symptoms of high testosterone in females can include:
- Acne
- Hair loss
- Increased body or facial hair
- Hypertension
- Irregular or missing periods
- Insulin resistance
PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is a common endocrine (hormone) disorder that affects about 8-13% of women of reproductive age. Common signs and symptoms include high testosterone and androgen excess (abnormal hair growth and acne), menstrual irregularity, and metabolic dysfunction (obesity, insulin resistance, etc.). It is one of the most common causes of female infertility. There are currently no exact causes or known cures for PCOS, but with the help of your healthcare provider, there are lifestyle changes and potential treatment options to help manage the condition.
Low testosterone levels can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, obesity, alcohol, smoking habits, and a sedentary lifestyle.
Yes, this test can be taken by anyone who would like to assess their hormone levels. Results should ultimately be discussed with your healthcare provider, especially if you are undergoing hormone therapy.
You may be able to use your FSA or HSA funds to purchase lab tests at questhealth.com. Please review your FSA/HSA plan or check with a tax professional to confirm specific requirements for individual eligibility.
Our references
*Testosterone therapy: Potential benefits and risks as you age. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/sexual-health/in-depth/testosterone-therapy/art-20045728