Testosterone (Total) Test
Category
Hormones
Specimen
Blood
Organ System
—
Available At
0 labs
About Testosterone (Total) Test
Total testosterone measures the overall amount of this hormone circulating in your blood, including both the fraction bound to proteins and the smaller, biologically active free fraction.
While most commonly associated with male health, testosterone plays important roles in both sexes, contributing to muscle mass, bone density, libido, mood, and overall energy levels, even though women naturally produce it in much smaller amounts.
In men, testosterone naturally declines gradually with age starting around the early 30s, but a sharper or more symptomatic drop can indicate an underlying medical condition affecting the testes, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus rather than simple aging.
In women, elevated testosterone is more often the clinical concern, frequently linked to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome that cause symptoms such as excess hair growth, acne, or irregular periods.
When Should You Get Testosterone (Total) Test
This test is ordered for:
- Low libido or erectile dysfunction in men
- Unexplained fatigue or reduced muscle mass
- Irregular periods, excess facial or body hair, or acne in women
- Delayed puberty evaluation in adolescents
- Investigating infertility
Conditions Testosterone (Total) Test Can Detect
Testosterone testing helps evaluate:
- Hypogonadism (low testosterone) in men
- Polycystic ovary syndrome and other causes of elevated testosterone in women
- Pituitary or testicular disorders affecting hormone production
- Certain adrenal gland conditions
How to Prepare for Testosterone (Total) Test
- Testing is best done in the morning, between roughly 7 and 10 AM, when testosterone levels are naturally at their highest.
- No fasting is typically required.
- Avoid strenuous exercise immediately before the test, as it can temporarily affect hormone levels.
Testosterone (Total) Test Normal Reference Ranges
| Parameter | Normal Range |
|---|---|
| Men | 280–1,100 ng/dL |
| Women | 15–70 ng/dL |
In men, a low result is typically confirmed with a repeat morning test before a diagnosis of low testosterone is made, since levels can fluctuate day to day, while in women, an elevated result is usually investigated further alongside other hormone tests.
Health Conditions A–Z
LabDekho500+ Diseases & Conditions Explained
Understand symptoms, causes, treatment options and prevention for hundreds of conditions — written for patients, reviewed for accuracy.
No labs have listed a price for this test yet.
Check back soon, or browse every accredited lab on Lab Dekho.
Frequently Asked Questions About Testosterone (Total) Test
Why is morning testing recommended?
Testosterone follows a natural daily rhythm, peaking in the early morning and gradually declining through the day, so morning testing gives the most representative and clinically useful reading.
Does testosterone naturally decline with age in men?
Yes, testosterone levels gradually decline starting around the early 30s in most men, though a sharp or symptomatic drop should still be evaluated rather than assumed to be purely age-related.
What causes high testosterone in women?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause, though certain adrenal gland conditions and, rarely, hormone-producing tumors can also raise testosterone levels in women.
Medical Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Lab test results should always be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of your clinical history. Do not self-diagnose or alter your treatment based on test results alone.
Not priced near you yet
New partner labs are added regularly.