Understanding free testosterone vs total testosterone: A comprehensive guide

Understanding free testosterone vs total testosterone: A comprehensive guide

Because testosterone levels vary from day to day and hour to hour, if a low or high level is found, the test is usually repeated. 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.

Hormonal balance, including optimal testosterone levels, is pivotal in preserving overall health and well-being across various physiological systems. Testosterone, predominantly recognized as a male sex hormone, is also present in females, albeit in smaller quantities, exerting multifaceted effects on both genders6. In males, testosterone is integral to the development of secondary sexual characteristics, such as facial hair growth and deepening of the voice, as well as supporting reproductive function.

To ensure the diversity of our study population, we enrolled females of various ages, socioeconomic backgrounds, and professions. However, to maintain inclusivity and equity, we established specific inclusion criteria at the outset. Additionally, all participants were closely monitored to adhere to a uniform diet plan. The participants were instructed to follow the same exercise regimen at the same time of day, with samples collected in the morning to mitigate the impact of natural hormone fluctuations throughout the day. We are dedicated to furthering the causes of diversity, equity, and inclusion in science, research, and healthcare. A gynecologist determined the menstrual cycle phase of the participants using the calendar method, tracking their cycles for the previous three months to identify any irregularities. This allowed researchers to establish the normal hormonal ranges for the participants and monitor any deviations from these baseline levels38.

Moreover, testosterone influences mood regulation, cognitive function, and bone density, contributing to psychological and skeletal health7,8. In females, while estrogen and progesterone are primary sex hormones, testosterone contributes to libido, energy levels, and overall vitality9. Thus, maintaining an optimal testosterone balance is crucial for sustaining physiological equilibrium and promoting general well-being. Maintaining an optimal testosterone balance is vital for muscle health, metabolic function, sexual health, mood regulation, and overall quality of life in both men and women10,11. Elevated testosterone levels in men, though less common, can signify health issues like natural variations, the use of anabolic steroids, adrenal or testicular tumors, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or other medical conditions. Symptoms of high testosterone include increased aggression, acne, excessive body hair, male pattern baldness, muscle mass increase, and potential fertility issues.

Although present in much lower levels than estrogen and progesterone, testosterone’s balance is crucial for the normal functioning of the female reproductive system. Despite normal total testosterone level results, your doctor may suggest free and bioavailable testosterone blood tests, too, as a deficiency could also cause the adverse effects of overall low testosterone levels [25]. Testing your testosterone levels with your healthcare provider’s guidance can you donate plasma if you are on testosterone also help you understand how your lifestyle choices may affect this important hormone. Labcorp OnDemand’s Comprehensive Testosterone Test measures total testosterone, free testosterone, albumin and SHBG, providing a complete picture. A healthcare provider may order a free testosterone or total testosterone measurement depending on your symptoms or levels they are trying to check.

Furthermore, understanding testosterone levels is not limited to addressing hormonal imbalances. The distinction between free and total testosterone is not just academic but has practical implications in diagnosing and treating hormonal imbalances. For instance, a man with normal total testosterone levels but low free testosterone might still experience symptoms of low testosterone due to the insufficient bioavailable hormone. The testosterone levels in the blood serum were checked through a chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay technique (Abbott-Alinity Ci) within 30 min of exercise and 24 h after exercise. This assessment was blinded, as the assessor (a lab technologist) did not know about allocating patients into groups or the intervention given to patients.

Free testosterone, which constitutes only about 2-3% of the total testosterone in the body, is not bound to any proteins and is therefore bioavailable and active. This form of testosterone is pivotal in real-time physiological processes, such as muscle building and libido enhancement. Total testosterone, encompassing both the free and protein-bound testosterone, represents the sum total of the hormone in the bloodstream.

– The blood sample is collected in the morning since the testosterone level is highest at that point. – Fasting is not required.– Consult your doctor and inform him about all the medications that you are taking. Your doctor might suggest you stop a few medications that can affect the result of the Free testosterone test.