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Testosterone
How it Works
1. Order a Test
Answer the Questions about why you’re taking the test.
Our nurse will contact you for dates, so they can take your blood sample at your home.
Our nurse will then send your sample to our laboratory.
2. Our laboratory team run the tests
Our skilled laboratory staff conduct your blood tests in a clean and secure environment, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
Each test follows strict protocols to maintain the highest quality standards.
3. Receive Your Results within 7 days
We will email you to inform you that your blood test results are ready.
The email will have a PDF report attached, sent directly to your inbox.
4. Monitor your levels over time
With regular ongoing tests and reports, you can track your results. The reports can be shared with your GP.
Check if you’re improving healthily or where changes could be made.
This test is ideal if you want to check your testosterone levels, as you may have common symptoms such as low sex drive, fatigue, low mood, irritability or loss of muscular strength.
Table of Contents
Testosterone Blood Test UK: The Complete Guide
When people think about hormones, testosterone is usually the first that comes to mind. Often labelled the “male hormone,” it is in fact essential for the health of both men and women. Testosterone influences everything from energy and motivation to fertility, bone strength, mood, and even cardiovascular health. When it falls outside the healthy range, the consequences can ripple across multiple aspects of daily life.
In men, low testosterone might appear as fatigue, reduced muscle mass, or erectile difficulties. In women, higher than normal levels are often linked to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition that affects fertility and metabolism. In both sexes, abnormal testosterone levels can influence mood, body composition, and long-term health outcomes.
Over the last decade, the demand for testosterone blood testing in the UK has risen sharply. NHS services provide testing in specific clinical scenarios, but access can be limited. Many people therefore turn to private blood tests to gain faster, clearer insights. Private testing offers the advantage of flexibility: you can order a test online, visit a local clinic, or use a home finger-prick kit, and usually receive results within a few days.
But a testosterone blood test is not simply about reading a number on a report. Hormones fluctuate, results must be interpreted in context, and symptoms often tell as much of the story as lab values. A man with borderline-low testosterone might still feel well, while another with technically “normal” levels may experience profound symptoms because of how their body processes hormones. That is why an accurate understanding of how testosterone is measured, what the numbers mean, and what to do with the information is so important.
This guide has been created as a comprehensive reference point for anyone in the UK considering a testosterone test. It covers the science of testosterone, reasons for testing, how to prepare, how to interpret results, and what next steps may look like if your levels are abnormal. Along the way, we’ll also address frequently asked questions, explain differences between NHS and private testing, and highlight why working with accredited laboratories is essential for trustworthy results.
Whether you are a man concerned about low energy, a woman worried about symptoms of PCOS, or simply someone wanting to understand your hormonal health better, this page will guide you through everything you need to know about testosterone blood tests in the UK.
What is a Testosterone Blood Test?
A testosterone blood test is a laboratory analysis that measures how much testosterone is circulating in your bloodstream at the time of testing. Although it is often thought of as a “male hormone,” testosterone is present in everyone and has a direct impact on physical, mental, and reproductive health. The test is one of the most reliable ways to determine whether hormone levels are balanced or whether there may be an underlying medical condition affecting production.
Understanding Testosterone
In men, testosterone is produced mainly in the testes under the control of the pituitary gland and hypothalamus. It drives puberty, maintains muscle and bone mass, fuels libido, and supports sperm production. Women produce testosterone in smaller amounts through the ovaries and adrenal glands, where it plays an equally important role in regulating metabolism, bone strength, mood, and sexual wellbeing.
Because testosterone interacts with many other hormones and systems, even small imbalances can create wide-ranging symptoms. For that reason, doctors often use this test as a starting point in the investigation of issues such as infertility, unexplained fatigue, irregular menstrual cycles, or reduced sexual function.
Types of Testosterone Measured
There is not just one type of testosterone. A comprehensive blood test may measure several forms, each providing different insights:
Total Testosterone: This measures the overall amount of testosterone in the blood, including the fraction bound to proteins such as sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and albumin. It is the most common first-line test.
Free Testosterone: This measures testosterone that is not bound to proteins. It represents the biologically active form available for the body to use.
Bioavailable Testosterone: This combines free testosterone with the fraction weakly bound to albumin, giving a clearer picture of what is accessible to tissues.
The choice between these tests depends on symptoms and clinical suspicion. For example, if a man has low total testosterone but no symptoms, further testing of free or bioavailable testosterone may help clarify the situation.
What the Testosterone Test Involves
A testosterone blood test is straightforward. A healthcare professional draws a blood sample from a vein, usually in the arm. The sample is then analysed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory using highly sensitive equipment. Results are typically reported in nanomoles per litre (nmol/L), although some international research may use nanograms per decilitre (ng/dL).
At BloodTest.co.uk, all testosterone testing is performed using venous blood samples collected by trained professionals. This ensures accuracy and reliability, especially if a full hormone panel is required. While at-home finger-prick kits were once offered in the UK, they have proven inconsistent and are no longer part of our service. We believe that a properly taken venous sample provides the clearest and most dependable results for patients and clinicians alike.
Why Get Tested for Testosterone?
A testosterone blood test is not just for athletes or those interested in hormone replacement therapy. It is a crucial diagnostic tool that can uncover underlying health issues, explain persistent symptoms, and guide decisions about treatment or lifestyle change. Because testosterone interacts with multiple systems in the body, abnormal levels can present in very different ways depending on age, sex, and life stage.
Why Men May Need Testing
For many men, low testosterone develops gradually. A man in his late thirties might first notice that his workouts are less effective. By his mid-forties, he may feel persistently tired, gain weight around the waist, and lose interest in intimacy. These symptoms can be dismissed as “just ageing,” but a blood test may reveal clinically low testosterone levels.
Common reasons men undergo testing include:
Sexual health problems: Erectile dysfunction, low libido, or difficulties with fertility are often linked to testosterone deficiency.
Unexplained fatigue: Men with low testosterone often report a persistent lack of energy that is not alleviated by sleep.
Muscle loss and weight gain: Testosterone supports lean muscle mass and metabolism. When levels drop, body fat often increases.
Mood changes: Irritability, anxiety, or depressive symptoms can all be influenced by hormonal balance.
Bone health concerns: Low testosterone contributes to osteoporosis, making men more vulnerable to fractures.
In some men, testosterone testing is also used to monitor Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT). Regular blood tests ensure that treatment is both effective and safe, avoiding excessively high levels that could increase health risks.
Why Women May Need Testing
Although testosterone is present at lower levels in women, it plays an essential role. When levels rise too high, the effects can be disruptive and distressing.
One of the most common conditions linked to high testosterone in women is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). This affects an estimated 1 in 10 women of childbearing age in the UK. Symptoms include irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth, weight gain, and difficulty conceiving. A testosterone blood test, alongside other hormone tests, can help confirm the diagnosis.
Women may also benefit from testing if they experience:
Infertility: Elevated or abnormal testosterone can disrupt ovulation.
Acne and skin issues: Persistent adult acne may indicate a hormonal imbalance.
Unexpected hair growth: Hirsutism (hair growth on the face, chest, or back) often points to excess androgens.
Low libido and fatigue: While less commonly discussed, women with unusually low testosterone may also experience reduced sexual desire and energy.
For women entering menopause, testing may be recommended if symptoms are severe or if hormone therapy is being considered.
Testosterone Testing in Adolescents
Puberty is a complex process regulated by hormones, and when it doesn’t progress as expected, a testosterone test may be ordered.
In boys, delayed puberty may be signalled by a lack of voice deepening, sparse facial hair, or underdeveloped testes by age 14–15. Low testosterone might indicate an issue with the testes or pituitary gland.
In girls, very early puberty or irregular development could suggest excess testosterone production, which may be linked to PCOS or adrenal conditions.
Timely testing in adolescents is important, as hormone imbalances can affect growth, bone development, and future fertility.
Older Adults and Age-Related Decline
Testosterone naturally declines with age. From around the age of 30, levels begin to fall at an average rate of 1–2 percent per year. For some men, this gradual reduction has little effect. For others, it leads to noticeable changes, sometimes described as “andropause.”
Symptoms can include:
Low energy and motivation
Loss of muscle tone and strength
Reduced bone density
Cognitive changes such as poor concentration or memory lapses
Testing in older adults helps distinguish between what is normal age-related decline and what may represent clinically significant hypogonadism. In some cases, treatment may be recommended, but lifestyle interventions such as improved diet, strength training, and better sleep can also have a measurable impact.
Beyond Symptoms
Not every testosterone test is ordered because of symptoms. Sometimes it is performed as part of a broader investigation:
Men undergoing evaluation for infertility.
Women being assessed for menstrual disorders.
Patients with suspected pituitary or adrenal conditions.
Monitoring of those already receiving hormone therapy.
In each case, the blood test provides valuable data that can be combined with medical history, physical examination, and other hormone results to build a full picture of health.
Why Private Testosterone Testing is Growing
While testosterone testing is available on the NHS, access is usually restricted to patients with very clear clinical indications. For many people experiencing symptoms but unable to get an NHS referral, private testing offers a quicker and more accessible option.
With private testing, individuals can:
Choose when and where to be tested.
Receive results within days, not weeks.
Access a broader range of related hormone panels.
This speed and flexibility explains why private testosterone blood testing is increasingly popular in the UK. For anyone struggling with unexplained symptoms, it provides a first step toward answers.
How to Prepare for a Testosterone Test
Although a testosterone blood test is a simple procedure, the steps you take before your appointment can make a big difference to the accuracy of the results. Testosterone is a hormone that naturally rises and falls throughout the day, and it can also be influenced by diet, stress, illness, medication, and lifestyle. Preparing correctly ensures that your results reflect your true baseline rather than a temporary fluctuation.
Timing Matters
The most important factor is time of day. Testosterone follows a daily rhythm, with the highest levels in the early morning and the lowest in the evening. For this reason, most laboratories and clinicians recommend testing between 7am and 10am.
Testing later in the day may show lower values that do not accurately represent your usual levels. This is particularly relevant for men under the age of 45, where the morning–evening variation can be significant. For older men, the variation is smaller but still noticeable enough to matter.
Fasting and Food Intake
Fasting is not always required for a testosterone test, but it can help eliminate factors that might interfere with results. Some studies suggest that eating immediately before a test, especially a meal rich in sugar, can temporarily lower testosterone levels.
If your testosterone test is being taken alongside other blood work, such as cholesterol or glucose, fasting for 8 to 10 hours is usually recommended. Water is allowed, and in fact encouraged, as good hydration makes the blood draw easier.
Exercise and Lifestyle Factors
Exercise has a powerful influence on testosterone. An intense gym session the night before or even the morning of your test can temporarily boost levels. Similarly, endurance exercise such as marathon training can suppress testosterone in the short term. To avoid misleading results, it is best to avoid heavy exercise for 24 hours before testing.
Alcohol and poor sleep are also known to reduce testosterone, sometimes dramatically. Limiting alcohol for a few days before the test and ensuring you get a good night’s sleep will give a clearer picture of your baseline hormone levels.
Illness and Stress
Illness, even something as minor as a viral infection, can reduce testosterone temporarily. If you are unwell, it is better to delay testing until you have recovered. Chronic stress also suppresses testosterone by increasing cortisol, the body’s stress hormone. While it is impossible to eliminate stress entirely, being aware of its impact can help you interpret results more accurately.
Medication Disclosure
Several common medications influence testosterone readings. These include:
Steroids and glucocorticoids (used for asthma, arthritis, autoimmune conditions).
Opioid painkillers (such as codeine or morphine).
Anticonvulsants (used for epilepsy).
Hormone therapies (including those for prostate cancer or fertility treatment).
Always inform the healthcare professional collecting your sample about any prescription or over-the-counter drugs you are taking. This context is essential for accurate interpretation.
Venous Blood Samples for Testosterone Accuracy
At BloodTest.co.uk, all testosterone tests are conducted using venous blood draws carried out by trained professionals. This method provides the highest level of accuracy and allows for additional hormone panels if required. Unlike finger-prick kits, which can be inconsistent and are no longer recommended, venous samples give clinicians the reliable data needed for proper decision-making.
Preparing for your testosterone blood test is about creating the conditions for the most accurate reading possible. Book your test for the morning, consider fasting if other tests are included, avoid strenuous exercise and alcohol the day before, and make sure you disclose any medications. By following these steps, you can be confident that your results will provide a dependable foundation for further interpretation and treatment.
Testosterone Levels Explained
Once your sample has been analysed, your results will usually be reported as a number in nanomoles per litre (nmol/L). At first glance, this looks simple: if the number falls within the “normal” range, you’re fine. If it doesn’t, something is wrong. In reality, interpreting testosterone results is far more complex. A level that is normal for one person may cause symptoms in another, and reference ranges vary between laboratories. To understand your results properly, they must be considered alongside your age, sex, symptoms, medical history, and additional hormone markers.
Typical Reference Ranges
The following values are commonly used in UK laboratories, although exact ranges vary depending on methodology and equipment:
| Group | Normal Range (nmol/L) |
|---|---|
| Men (18–30 years) | 10 – 30 |
| Men (30–60 years) | 8 – 27 |
| Men (60+ years) | 6 – 23 |
| Women (premenopause) | 0.5 – 2.5 |
| Women (postmenopause) | 0.3 – 1.8 |
What These Numbers Mean
A 20-year-old man at 9 nmol/L may be considered low and symptomatic.
A 65-year-old man at the same 9 nmol/L might fall within expected age-related decline, but still be at risk of osteoporosis and fatigue.
A premenopausal woman at 4 nmol/L would be considered abnormally high and could point to PCOS.
The ranges are guides, not absolute cut-offs. That is why repeat testing and broader hormone panels are often needed to reach a confident diagnosis.
Low Testosterone (Hypogonadism)
Low testosterone is medically referred to as hypogonadism. It occurs when the body fails to produce sufficient testosterone to maintain normal function. There are two main types:
Primary hypogonadism: The problem lies in the testes themselves, which may be damaged by infection, trauma, surgery, or chemotherapy.
Secondary hypogonadism: The testes are healthy, but the pituitary gland or hypothalamus is not signalling correctly. This can happen in pituitary tumours, head injuries, or chronic illness.
Symptoms of Low Testosterone in Men
The signs of low testosterone are often gradual in onset. A man might first notice reduced morning erections or loss of sexual desire. Over time, this can expand into fatigue, muscle loss, increased fat mass, irritability, and poor concentration. Long-term deficiency may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease.
Bone health is another concern. Testosterone plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density. Men with untreated low levels are more likely to suffer fractures and osteoporosis later in life.
Symptoms of Low Testosterone in Women
In women, low testosterone is less well defined but can present as fatigue, low mood, reduced sexual desire, and bone weakness. It may occur naturally after menopause, but can also be caused by pituitary disorders, adrenal disease, or removal of the ovaries. Some women may benefit from carefully monitored testosterone therapy, although this is a specialist area and not suitable for everyone.
High Testosterone (Hypergonadism)
High testosterone is less common but can be just as significant.
In Women
Elevated testosterone in women often points to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). This condition affects around 10 percent of women in the UK and is one of the leading causes of infertility. Symptoms include irregular periods, acne, oily skin, excess hair growth on the face and body, and difficulty losing weight.
High testosterone in women may also suggest ovarian or adrenal tumours, although these are much rarer. A blood test can help distinguish PCOS from other possible causes and guide treatment.
In Men
In men, high testosterone is less often a natural occurrence and more often linked to external factors. The most common cause is the use of anabolic steroids, either for bodybuilding or athletic performance. While these drugs can boost muscle growth, they carry serious health risks, including infertility, heart disease, liver damage, and mood instability.
Rarely, men may develop high testosterone due to adrenal tumours or disorders of hormone regulation.
Symptoms of High Testosterone
Men: acne, aggression, sleep apnoea, fertility problems.
Women: excess hair growth, irregular cycles, acne, infertility.
Both sexes: mood changes, oily skin, abnormal cholesterol patterns.
Borderline Testesterone Blood Results
Sometimes testosterone results fall into the “grey zone.” For example, a man might record 9 nmol/L — just below the lower reference range — yet still feel well. Another man with 12 nmol/L may have every classic symptom of low testosterone.
Why Borderline Results Matter
Daily fluctuation: A sample taken at 4pm might read lower than one taken at 8am.
Lab variation: Different laboratories use different reference ranges.
Individual sensitivity: Some people experience symptoms at levels others tolerate.
In such cases, doctors usually recommend:
Repeat testing at the correct time of day.
Measuring free or bioavailable testosterone in addition to total.
Testing related hormones such as LH, FSH, SHBG, estradiol, and prolactin.
Testosterone levels cannot be judged in isolation. A result that looks “normal” on paper may still be abnormal for the individual, depending on context. This is why clinical interpretation is just as important as the number itself. Only when test results, symptoms, and medical history are combined can an accurate picture of hormone health emerge.
What Happens Next if Results Are Abnormal?
Seeing a testosterone result that falls outside the normal range can feel alarming, but it is important to remember that a single blood test is rarely the final word. Hormone levels fluctuate from day to day. A meaningful diagnosis usually requires repeat testing, additional investigations, and careful interpretation by a qualified professional. Abnormal results are a starting point — not an end point.
Step 1: Repeat Testing
Because testosterone follows a natural daily rhythm and can be influenced by short-term factors such as illness, stress, or alcohol intake, abnormal results are often repeated. The second test is typically scheduled in the early morning under stable conditions to confirm the accuracy of the first reading. Consistency across multiple tests gives doctors confidence that the result reflects your true baseline.
Step 2: Expand the Hormone Panel
Testosterone never works in isolation. To understand why levels are low or high, clinicians will often order related hormone tests. These may include:
Luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): These pituitary hormones control testosterone production. High LH/FSH with low testosterone points to testicular failure, while low LH/FSH suggests a signalling problem in the brain.
Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG): This protein binds to testosterone. High SHBG can make total testosterone appear adequate when free testosterone is low.
Prolactin: Elevated prolactin can suppress testosterone and may point to pituitary disease.
Estradiol and DHEA: Other sex hormones that influence balance and metabolism.
This broader panel helps distinguish between primary hypogonadism (a problem in the testes or ovaries), secondary hypogonadism (a problem in the pituitary gland), or other hormonal conditions such as PCOS.
Step 3: Specialist Referral
If abnormalities are confirmed, referral to an endocrinologist, urologist, or gynaecologist may be recommended. These specialists can carry out further investigations such as MRI scans of the pituitary, ultrasound of the ovaries, or more detailed fertility testing.
For men, an endocrinologist may also assess bone density to check for osteoporosis. For women with high testosterone, a gynaecologist can provide tailored management for PCOS, including fertility advice.
Step 4: Lifestyle Modifications
Lifestyle plays a huge role in testosterone health. Even when medical treatment is required, improving lifestyle can amplify the benefits. Key areas include:
Weight management: Reducing body fat lowers the conversion of testosterone into oestrogen.
Exercise: Resistance training has been proven to increase testosterone levels naturally.
Sleep quality: Poor sleep is strongly associated with low testosterone levels. Correcting sleep apnoea or prioritising rest can make a significant difference.
Stress reduction: High cortisol from chronic stress suppresses testosterone production.
For some men with borderline low results, these interventions may be enough to restore healthy levels without medication.
Step 5: Medical Treatment
When lifestyle changes alone are insufficient, medical treatment may be considered.
For men with confirmed hypogonadism:
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) may be offered in the form of injections, gels, or patches. Treatment must be carefully monitored with regular blood tests to ensure levels are safe and effective. Possible risks include thickened blood, prostate changes, and cardiovascular concerns.For women with high testosterone due to PCOS:
Management often focuses on restoring menstrual regularity and protecting fertility. Options include hormonal contraceptives, insulin-sensitising medications, and targeted lifestyle changes. Fertility treatments may be offered if conception is difficult.For both sexes with tumours or adrenal disorders:
Surgery or targeted medical therapy may be required to address the underlying cause.
The Importance of Ongoing Monitoring
Regardless of the treatment path, regular monitoring is essential. Testosterone therapy is not a “set and forget” solution. Levels must be checked every few months initially, then annually once they are stable. For women with PCOS or high testosterone, ongoing follow-up ensures that symptoms are managed effectively and that long-term risks such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease are reduced.
An abnormal testosterone result is not a diagnosis in itself. It is a clue that guides the next steps in investigation and care. In some cases, the issue may be temporary and can be corrected with lifestyle adjustments. In others, it may reveal an underlying condition that requires specialist treatment. The value of testing lies not just in identifying the abnormal number but in using it as the starting point of a pathway toward improved health, fertility, and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions About Testosterone Blood Tests
Do I need to fast before a testosterone blood test?
In most cases, fasting is not strictly required for a testosterone test alone. However, many doctors recommend it because food intake, particularly meals high in sugar or refined carbohydrates, can temporarily lower testosterone levels. If your test is being performed as part of a larger hormone or metabolic panel that includes cholesterol or glucose, fasting for 8–10 hours is standard practice. During this period, water is encouraged, as staying hydrated helps the blood draw go smoothly.
It is also worth considering your routine. If you usually eat breakfast before 8 am, booking your test earlier in the morning makes fasting easier and ensures you are tested at the time of day when testosterone levels naturally peak. For patients with diabetes or other medical conditions, always consult your healthcare provider before fasting.
In short, while fasting is not always mandatory, it is often beneficial for achieving the most accurate and comparable results, especially when other tests are included.
What’s the difference between total and free testosterone?
Total testosterone measures the entire amount of testosterone circulating in the blood, including hormone bound to proteins such as sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and albumin. This is the most common first-line test because it provides a broad overview of testosterone status.
Free testosterone, on the other hand, measures the fraction not bound to proteins. This unbound form is biologically active, meaning it can interact with cells and drive the functions we associate with testosterone, such as libido, energy, and muscle strength.
Sometimes, a man may have a normal total testosterone level but a low free testosterone level due to high SHBG. In such cases, symptoms may still be present despite the “normal” result. Measuring both total and free testosterone, or calculating bioavailable testosterone, offers a more accurate picture, especially when symptoms and test results do not align.
When is the best time of day to test testosterone levels?
Testosterone levels follow a diurnal rhythm, peaking in the early morning and falling steadily throughout the day. This variation is most pronounced in younger men, where afternoon values can be 30% lower than morning values. For this reason, most UK laboratories recommend testing between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.
For men over 45, the daily variation is smaller, but early morning testing is still considered best practice to maintain consistency. Women also benefit from morning testing, especially when assessing conditions like PCOS, where hormone levels can fluctuate throughout the cycle.
Testing outside the recommended window risks producing a result that looks artificially low and may not reflect your baseline. If repeat testing is required, it should be performed at a similar time of day to allow for an accurate comparison.
Can stress or illness affect testosterone results?
Yes. Testosterone does not exist in isolation; it is closely linked to other hormones, particularly cortisol, the body’s stress hormone. During periods of acute stress, cortisol rises sharply and can suppress testosterone production. Chronic stress, even at lower levels, may contribute to persistent reductions in testosterone.
Illness has a similar effect. During infection or recovery from surgery, the body redirects resources to healing, often resulting in temporarily lower testosterone levels. This is why doctors sometimes delay hormone testing until after recovery. Even something as routine as a bad cold or flu can produce misleadingly low results.
If your testosterone comes back low but you were unwell or under significant stress at the time, it is best to repeat the test once you are healthy. Context is everything, and recognising the role of stress and illness is crucial in avoiding unnecessary worry or premature treatment.
How long do results usually take?
With NHS testing, results may take several weeks, depending on local demand and referral processes. By contrast, private testing through BloodTest.co.uk is much faster. Once your sample has been taken, it is sent to a UKAS-accredited laboratory and analysed using high-precision equipment. Results are typically available within two to three working days, although they may be available sooner for clinic-based samples.
Once results are ready, they are securely uploaded to an online portal where you can view them at any time. Many providers also include medical interpretation, helping you understand whether the numbers are in the expected range and what further steps may be required.
This speed and accessibility are one of the main reasons people choose private testing. It provides clarity within days, rather than waiting weeks or months for NHS appointments.
Can women have a testosterone blood test?
Absolutely. While testosterone is present at lower levels in women than in men, it remains a crucial hormone for reproductive, metabolic, and emotional well-being. Women are often tested when there are concerns about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which is linked to elevated testosterone. Symptoms include irregular or absent periods, infertility, acne, oily skin, and hirsutism (excessive hair growth).
Women may also have their testosterone measured if they experience low libido, persistent fatigue, or unexplained changes in mood or bone density. Postmenopausal women can sometimes benefit from testosterone therapy under specialist guidance, although this is not widely offered in the UK.
Testing is straightforward and uses the same venous blood sample as in men. The difference lies in the reference ranges, which are much lower in women, making interpretation a specialist task.
What happens if my testosterone is low?
If your results confirm low testosterone on more than one occasion, your doctor will usually order additional hormone tests to determine the cause. These may include LH, FSH, SHBG, estradiol, and prolactin. Together, these tests can identify whether the issue lies in the testes or ovaries (primary hypogonadism) or in the brain’s signalling pathway (secondary hypogonadism).
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. For some men, lifestyle changes such as losing weight, improving sleep, and reducing alcohol are enough to restore balance. For others, Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) may be appropriate, provided it is closely monitored by a specialist.
For women, low testosterone is less well defined but may contribute to low energy, reduced sexual desire, and poor bone health. Some postmenopausal women may be offered low-dose testosterone therapy, although this is still uncommon in the UK and requires careful oversight.
What happens if my testosterone is high?
High testosterone means different things depending on sex.
In women, it often indicates PCOS, which can disrupt ovulation and fertility. High testosterone may also cause acne, excess body hair, and weight gain. In rare cases, it may indicate adrenal or ovarian tumours.
In men, high testosterone is most commonly associated with anabolic steroid use. While these drugs can boost muscle growth, they carry significant risks, including heart disease, liver damage, infertility, and mood instability. Rarely, men may develop high testosterone due to adrenal tumours.
In both sexes, further investigation is essential to identify the cause. Once the source is understood, treatment may involve lifestyle changes, medication, or, in rare cases, surgery.
Is private testing better than NHS testing?
Both NHS and private testosterone tests are accurate, as they use accredited laboratories and established methods. The main difference lies in access and speed. NHS testing is usually limited to cases where there is a clear medical need, and waiting times can be lengthy. For many people, this means living with symptoms for months before testing is even offered.
Private testing removes those barriers. It allows you to order a test at your convenience, choose a nearby clinic, and receive your results within a few days. It also provides access to wider hormone panels and quicker specialist referral if required.
While private testing comes at a cost, many people consider it a worthwhile investment in clarity and peace of mind.
Can lifestyle changes improve testosterone naturally?
Yes. Lifestyle has a profound effect on testosterone levels, and in many cases, small changes can lead to noticeable improvements. Losing excess body fat helps reduce the conversion of testosterone into oestrogen. Strength training stimulates natural testosterone production, particularly compound exercises such as squats and deadlifts.
Sleep is another powerful regulator. Studies show that even a week of poor sleep can significantly reduce testosterone. Addressing conditions like sleep apnoea or simply prioritising rest can have a measurable impact.
Nutrition also plays a role. Adequate protein, healthy fats, and key micronutrients such as zinc and vitamin D support testosterone production. Limiting alcohol and managing stress further enhance hormonal balance.
For men with borderline results, lifestyle changes may be enough to restore levels without medical intervention.
How is testosterone measured in the lab?
Testosterone can be measured using several methods. The most common is immunoassay, which is quick and widely available but may be less accurate at very low levels. High-precision laboratories use liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), considered the gold standard.
BloodTest.co.uk utilises accredited laboratories that adhere to rigorous quality protocols. This ensures that results are both accurate and reliable, providing clinicians with the data they need to make informed decisions. While patients rarely need to know the technical details, understanding that different methods exist can explain why results may vary slightly between laboratories.
How often should testosterone be tested?
The answer depends on context. For a one-off check due to symptoms, a repeat test may be recommended within a few weeks to confirm the result. If you are on Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), monitoring is more frequent — typically every 3–6 months in the first year, then annually once stable.
For women with PCOS or high testosterone, testing may be advised annually or when symptoms change. For older men monitoring age-related decline, annual checks are usually sufficient.
The key is consistency. Testing should be done at the same time of day and, ideally, in the same laboratory to allow accurate comparison.
How much does a testosterone blood test cost in the UK?
Private testosterone blood tests in the UK typically cost between £60 and £120, depending on the provider and whether additional hormone markers are included. At BloodTest.co.uk, pricing is transparent, with no hidden fees, and results include full laboratory reporting and secure online access.
Can I get a testosterone blood test on the NHS?
Yes, but access on the NHS is limited. Testosterone testing is usually only available if your GP suspects a clear medical need, such as infertility, erectile dysfunction, or delayed puberty. Many people with symptoms that don’t meet strict NHS criteria choose private testing for faster access and a wider choice of hormone panels.
Does low testosterone always need treatment?
Not always. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as improving sleep, reducing alcohol, losing weight, and exercising regularly can raise testosterone levels naturally. Medical treatment, such as Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), is only recommended if blood test results are consistently low and symptoms are significant.
How reliable are private testosterone blood tests?
When carried out by accredited laboratories using venous blood samples, private testosterone tests are highly reliable. At BloodTest.co.uk, all samples are processed in UKAS-accredited labs to ensure accuracy and repeatability. At-home finger-prick kits are less reliable and are no longer offered by our service.
Why Choose BloodTest.co.uk?
Not all private testing services are equal. At BloodTest.co.uk, we prioritise accuracy, speed, and trustworthiness in every test we provide. Here’s what sets us apart:
UKAS-Accredited Laboratories
All samples are analysed in UKAS-accredited labs. This accreditation demonstrates that the laboratory meets the highest standards for quality and reliability, giving patients and clinicians full confidence in the results.
Professional Venous Sampling
We do not rely on at-home finger-prick kits, which can be unreliable. Instead, every testosterone test is conducted via a venous blood draw performed by trained professionals. This method ensures accuracy and allows for extended hormone panels if needed.
Rapid Turnaround Times
Results are typically available within two to three working days. This means patients can take action quickly, whether that involves lifestyle adjustments, a consultation with a GP, or a referral to a specialist.
Secure Online Access
Patients receive results through a confidential online portal, ensuring privacy and convenience. Reports are clearly presented, with interpretation included where appropriate.
UK-Wide Coverage
With a broad network of partner clinics across the UK, patients can access testing close to home, making the process as convenient as possible.
Trusted by Thousands
BloodTest.co.uk has built its reputation on providing reliable, discreet, and patient-focused testing services. Thousands of people across the UK have used our service to gain clarity about their health, and many return for ongoing monitoring.
The Value of Private Testosterone Testing
While the NHS remains the cornerstone of healthcare in the UK, private blood testing offers a valuable complement. It empowers patients to take control of their health, providing access to answers when they are needed most. For those experiencing symptoms that disrupt daily life, waiting months for a referral is not always acceptable.
By choosing BloodTest.co.uk, you are choosing accuracy, speed, and professional oversight — the key elements that turn a simple blood test into a trusted health insight.
References
NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) (https://www.nice.org.uk)
Endocrine Society (https://www.endocrine.org)
BMJ (British Medical Journal) (https://www.bmj.com)
Bhasin, S., et al. “Testosterone Therapy in Men with Hypogonadism: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline.” Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2018.
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). “Diagnosis and Management of Testosterone Deficiency.” Guidance summaries, 2022.
Handelsman, D. J., et al. “Testosterone Reference Ranges in Healthy Men: Harmonised Approach.” Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, 2016.
British Medical Journal (BMJ). “Practical Management of Testosterone Deficiency in Men.” BMJ Best Practice, 2021.
Teede, H. J., et al. “International Evidence-Based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.” Human Reproduction, 2018.
Wu, F. C., et al. “Identification of Late-Onset Hypogonadism in Middle-Aged and Elderly Men.” New England Journal of Medicine, 2010.
Disclaimer
The content on this page is provided for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your GP, endocrinologist, or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have about your health or before making decisions based on your testosterone test results.
Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information you have read here.
