Testosterone (Total) Test in Chattarpur, Delhi

Testosterone is the main male sex hormone, produced mostly in the testes in men and in smaller amounts by the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. It drives the development of male characteristics, supports muscle mass, bone density, red blood cell production, sex drive and mood, and plays a role in fertility. A total testosterone test measures all the testosterone in your blood, both the part attached to proteins and the small free fraction.

In men, low testosterone may cause reduced sex drive, erectile problems, fatigue, loss of muscle, increased body fat, low mood and reduced bone density. In women, high testosterone is a key clue to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), producing acne, excess facial and body hair, scalp hair thinning and irregular periods. In children, abnormal levels can signal early or delayed puberty.

Testosterone levels vary through the day and are highest in the early morning, so doctors usually advise a morning sample, and often repeat a low result before making a diagnosis. Total testosterone is sometimes interpreted together with SHBG, free testosterone, LH, FSH and prolactin to find the cause.

Low testosterone in men: what the test can and cannot tell

A diagnosis of low testosterone needs both symptoms and repeatedly low morning levels, usually on two separate days. Levels can be lowered by obesity, poor sleep, diabetes, alcohol, opioids, acute illness and some medicines, and improving these can raise testosterone naturally. Doctors then look at LH and FSH to separate testicular causes (high LH/FSH) from pituitary causes (low or normal LH/FSH), and may check prolactin and SHBG.

Testosterone and PCOS in women

In PCOS, total testosterone is mildly raised or normal and free testosterone is often high because SHBG is low. Doctors also check DHEA-S, 17-OH progesterone, LH, FSH, prolactin and thyroid tests to exclude other causes. A very high level, or fast-developing symptoms, may need imaging.

Testosterone treatment: caution

Replacement therapy should only be started after confirmed deficiency and a discussion of risks, including effects on fertility, red cell count and prostate health. Do not buy testosterone or "booster" products without a prescription; anabolic steroids can cause infertility, liver injury and heart problems.