what blood test measures testosterone levels
A testosterone test measures the amount of the male hormone, testosterone, in the blood. Both men and women produce this hormone. The test described in this article measures the total amount of testosterone in the blood. Much of the testosterone in the blood is bound to a protein called sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Another blood test can measure the free testosterone. However, this type of test is often not very accurate.
Remember, hypogonadism is also known as Low Testosterone and can be caused by certain medical conditions. Testosterone levels can vary from day to day, and by time of day, so at least two blood tests are needed to confirm a hypogonadism diagnosis. The first blood test will give your doctor a baseline. The second test confirms your levels and helps confirm a diagnosis. There are two types of blood tests that can be done to measure your testosterone. The most common test measures the total testosterone in your body. Your doctor may also order a free testosterone test as well as additional tests to help confirm a diagnosis. Since testosterone levels are at their peak in the morning, it's recommended that blood tests are performed in the morning.