Online testosterone test Some websites offer online questionnaires that can check for symptoms of high or low testosterone. Because testosterone levels naturally change throughout the day, your doctor may order a second test to confirm if your levels are too high or too low. At-home testosterone tests are widely available, but they aren’t always accurate so it’s important to have your doctor confirm any hormone issues.
Considering that nutrients from food can acutely change circulating testosterone levels, you will probably be advised to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before the test.1,2,3 Avoid sugary drinks and excessive caffeine, as they can cause insulin spikes, which can indirectly affect testosterone levels. Drink plenty of water before the test to ensure a smooth blood draw and prevent dehydration, which can affect hormone levels. Strenuous exercise, especially heavy weightlifting or endurance training, can cause temporary fluctuations in testosterone levels. Research found that decreased sleep caused a drop in testosterone levels, especially in the afternoon and evening. Some medications and supplements can artificially raise or lower testosterone levels.
A testosterone level that is lower or higher than normal can affect the body in many ways. This test will determine whether your total testosterone level is normal, high, or low. This test measures total testosterone, which represents all biological pools of testosterone, including the free forms, as well as those bound to proteins in the blood. Testosterone is an androgen steroid hormone and the principal male sex hormone, but it is also produced in females. Hormone imbalances can only be diagnosed by a healthcare professional based on your symptoms and history. In males, testosterone helps regulate sex drive and erectile function, muscle mass and strength, body fat distribution, bone density, and sperm production.
In females, the role of testosterone is only partially understood, but it helps produce estrogen and may help regulate how eggs develop in the ovaries. This test is specifically used to check for an antibody response to the virus, which can take time to develop. If at any time you feel like you are having a medical emergency, please call 9-1-1.
The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results. You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.