Testosterone
testosterone test · total testosterone · free testosterone · male hormone test
This is a blood test from a vein. It shows your level of testosterone. Both men and women have this hormone.
In men, for low sex drive, tiredness, or trouble conceiving. In women, for irregular periods, acne, or extra hair growth.
⏱ Duration: the blood draw takes a few minutes; results usually come in 1 to 3 days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Time. Usually in the morning, before about 11 a.m. Women will be told the cycle day by their doctor.
- Food. Usually fasting: no food for 8 to 12 hours. Plain water is fine. Check with the lab.
- The day before. For 24 hours, no alcohol and no hard workouts. Best not to smoke in the morning.
- Medicines. Do not stop them on your own. Tell your doctor what you take. They will decide if anything should change.
What to bring
- Your test request form
- Your ID
How it goes
- You sit down and rest your arm on the armrest
- A band is tightened above your elbow
- The skin is wiped with antiseptic
- A quick prick, and blood fills a tube
- The needle comes out, and a cotton pad is pressed on the spot
What you'll feel
- A quick prick, like a pinch
- Sometimes slight dizziness. Tell the nurse
Afterwards
- Press the cotton pad for 3 to 5 minutes and keep your arm straight
- You can eat right away and go back to your usual day
- Results usually come in 1 to 3 days. The lab will tell you when
- Sometimes the doctor asks you to repeat the test. The level changes from day to day
Common questions
Why is testosterone tested in the morning?
It is highest in the morning. Normal ranges are set for a morning test.
Do women need a testosterone test?
Yes, if your doctor ordered it. Women have it too, just in smaller amounts.