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Free Testosterone vs Total Testosterone Levels

Free Testosterone vs Total Testosterone Levels

It’s important to note that these ranges can ashwagandha lower testosterone at all differ slightly between laboratories due to variations in testing techniques. You may need this test to find out whether a low sex drive is caused by a low level of testosterone. In recent years, healthcare providers have used testosterone therapy to treat both men and women with low sex drives.

However, if you have concerns about your testosterone levels, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance. If the results of a free testosterone blood test fall below the normal range, it may indicate a hormone deficiency or imbalance. Symptoms of low free testosterone levels can include fatigue, reduced muscle mass, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, depression, and decreased bone density. Testosterone imbalance can be attributed to a variety of factors, including natural aging, lifestyle choices, medical conditions, medications, genetic factors, and environmental exposures.

A healthcare professional can conduct appropriate testing, assess hormone levels, and provide guidance for tailored treatment or management options. Prioritizing our health and seeking medical attention when needed can help address any underlying hormonal imbalances and promote overall well-being. During adolescence, testosterone levels experience a significant increase, contributing to the development of secondary sexual characteristics and overall physical maturation. The study found that normal testosterone ranges during adolescence typically fall between 300 to 1,000 ng/dL. Factors such as diet, exercise, and sleep patterns can play a role in testosterone levels. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and adopting stress-reducing practices can support optimal testosterone production.

In men, it can lead to infertility, decreased bone density, and diminished muscle mass. Women with low testosterone might experience reduced libido, fatigue, and muscle weakness. On the other hand, unusually high testosterone levels can lead to conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women, characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, acne, and excessive hair growth. Therefore, increasing your total testosterone level through healthy lifestyle choices is also likely to increase your free testosterone levels. Factors like stress, low levels of activity, and being overweight can all impact your testosterone production. There are many ways you can boost testosterone levels naturally, from losing weight to maintaining a healthy, balanced diet.

Recent studies show that testosterone attached to albumin becomes available in the capillary bed, which is why it is also referred to as bioavailable testosterone. When you are low on free testosterone, then albumin-bound testosterone may become available and ready to use by the body. It stimulates the growth of muscle tissue, enhancing both its size and strength. This anabolic effect not only contributes to a more muscular physique but also aids in the maintenance of bone density, thereby reducing the risk of osteoporosis as men age. Doctors diagnose low testosterone based on a physical exam, a review of symptoms, and the results of multiple blood tests since levels can fluctuate daily. Free testosterone and albumin-bound testosterone are also referred to as bioavailable testosterone.

You must be over 38, have had your ovaries removed or have suffered with premature menopause to warrant further hormone tests. You may have low testosterone depending on the symptoms you have, please contact us to find out how we can help. Feel free to ask us any question you would like about TRT, medical weightloss, ED, or other topics related to men’s health. When the needle pricks your arm or hand, you may feel a slight sting or pain. The pituitary gland in your brain controls the amount of testosterone your body makes.

It is important to remember that testosterone levels can fluctuate throughout the day and can also be influenced by various factors such as stress, sleep patterns, diet, exercise, and overall health. Therefore, a single blood test might not provide an accurate representation of an individual’s free testosterone levels. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation if there are concerns about testosterone levels or related symptoms. Around 95% to 98% of the testosterone in your body is attached to either albumin or sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) proteins; thus, it is called bound testosterone. The rest of the 2% to 5% of the testosterone exists freely in the bloodstream, and it is known as free testosterone. In conclusion, testosterone, a hormone often shrouded in mystery and misconceptions, is a cornerstone of human health. Its influence extends far beyond the realms of physical development and reproductive health, touching on aspects of our mental and emotional well-being.

You can check your free testosterone levels at home with our finger-prick Free Testosterone Blood Test, or if you’d also like to test for the other hormones mentioned, try our Male Hormone Blood Test. Yes, it’s possible to have normal total testosterone levels but low free testosterone, which may lead to symptoms of testosterone deficiency. Testosterone is a primary sex hormone primarily made in the testes, but also in the ovaries and adrenal glands. It’s important for growth and development, fertility, and maintaining muscle and bone mass.