test levels in men

About Us

Understanding free testosterone vs total testosterone: A comprehensive guide

Free Testosterone, Direct Male Lab Results explained

Monitoring % Free Testosterone is particularly important in diagnosing conditions like hypogonadism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and certain metabolic disorders. It’s also used to track the effectiveness of hormone replacement therapies. Various factors can influence % Free Testosterone levels, including obesity, liver disease, thyroid disorders, and certain medications.

Weight training, in particular, is beneficial for supporting healthy T levels, according to research. A small 2015 study of men in their 40s and 50s found that obese and overweight individuals experienced a boost in their T levels after increasing their physical activity. Well, to start, “testosterone is essential for sperm production,” he says. As T levels decline, so do sperm counts and semen quality, which can lead to issues in fertility, he says. For those who want to grow their family, this can lead to high levels of emotional stress on the individual and family levels. “On a societal scale, this could exacerbate population challenges, particularly in countries already experiencing aging populations and workforce shortages,” he says. But because it doesn’t dissolve in water (or blood), most testosterone (about 95%) catches a ride on other proteins, like sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and albumin.

This test specifically looks at the free (unbound) estradiol in the bloodstream—meaning the portion that can enter cells and affect tissues. It can offer a more precise view than total estradiol, especially in cases where symptoms don’t match total hormone levels. In the past two decades scientists have increasingly uncovered how detrimental EDCs (Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals) can be to your overall health, including hormone health. The decline was observed across all age groups, but researchers said it raised particular concerns regarding younger populations. Normal free testosterone levels for men and women vary according to the laboratory. Measuring free testosterone directly is possible, but it’s challenging and not widely available.

In conclusion, the normal range of free testosterone levels in men is between 9-30 ng/dL. This range indicates optimal hormone levels for maintaining muscle mass, bone density, energy levels, and reproductive health. Deviations from this range, either too low or too high, can indicate hormone imbalances or deficiencies that may require medical intervention and treatment. Regular monitoring and evaluation of testosterone levels, along with a comprehensive assessment of symptoms, can help ensure optimal health and well-being for men. This decline is normal but can sometimes lead to symptoms like decreased muscle mass, reduced energy levels, mood changes, and a lower sex drive. In women, testosterone levels are generally consistent but can be affected by factors like ovarian function and certain health conditions.

Testosterone is an important hormone found in both men and women, although it is typically present in higher concentrations in men. It plays a crucial role in cellular growth and repair, as well as in the development of secondary sexual characteristics. However, like any hormone, testosterone must be present in the body in appropriate levels to maintain optimal health.

It is responsible for maintaining muscle mass, bone density, energy levels, and sex drive in men. Understanding the normal range of free testosterone levels in men is crucial for assessing and diagnosing hormone imbalances or deficiencies. Because free testosterone plays a critical role in these physiological processes, measuring its percentage can provide a more accurate picture of an individual’s hormonal balance than total testosterone levels alone.

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.

The free testosterone can help give more information when total testosterone is low. If, after testing either your total testosterone and/or your free testosterone, it is determined that your testosterone levels are below normal, you may be a candidate for testosterone replacement therapy. A low total testosterone level suggests an androgen deficiency (i.e., low levels of this male sex hormone). There are also some circumstances in which there will be a normal total testosterone level but a low free testosterone level, which is why it can be helpful to have both levels checked. Testing free T specifically is important, as total testosterone levels may seem normal, but the excessive binding of the hormone may result in a free T deficiency.

Recent laboratory data from rats also revealed that finasteride interferes with the crystal formation of calcium oxalate, the most common stone component [7]. Leading a sedentary lifestyle may exacerbate testosterone declines in men as they age, according to a 2024 review published in Frontiers in Aging. But on the flip side, “regular physical activity, including strength training, has been linked to supporting healthy testosterone levels,” according to Bailey.