Male Hormone
Why This Male Hormone Blood Test Matters
This Male Hormone Blood Test uses a professional venous blood sample taken by a qualified nurse at your home to measure your hormone levels accurately, helping to diagnose hormone imbalances, check testosterone and related hormone health, and better understand symptoms such as reduced libido, loss of muscle mass, chronic fatigue, mood changes, or unexplained weight gain that may be linked to low testosterone or other male hormone conditions.
What Is A Male Hormone Blood Test?
A Blood Test for Male Hormones measures the levels of key hormones in your bloodstream, including testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH), prolactin, and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). These hormones are produced by your testes and pituitary gland and play vital roles in regulating sexual function, muscle development, energy levels, mood, and overall vitality.
This test helps identify whether your hormone levels are too high, too low, or imbalanced. Low testosterone can be linked with conditions like hypogonadism, age-related decline, chronic stress, or obesity, while high levels may indicate tumours or other endocrine disorders. Imbalances in FSH, LH, or prolactin can affect fertility, libido, and energy.
Because male hormone levels can fluctuate throughout the day and are influenced by factors like stress, sleep, and medications, our qualified nurse visit provides a professionally collected venous blood sample. This ensures the most accurate results, analysed in CQC-regulated UK laboratories, giving you and your GP reliable information to guide next steps.
What This Male Hormone Blood Test Includes
This Male Hormone Blood Test is a comprehensive hormone assessment that measures your key male hormones using a single venous blood sample taken by a qualified nurse at your home. This test is specifically designed to evaluate testosterone levels, pituitary function, and overall male hormone balance.
The test provides precise measurements of multiple hormone concentrations in your blood, which are then compared against established reference ranges to determine whether your hormones are within normal limits or if there are imbalances that may explain your symptoms.
Testosterone (Total and Free)
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone produced by the testes. It plays essential roles throughout your body, including regulating libido, muscle mass, bone density, fat distribution, red blood cell production, and mood.
Normal range (total testosterone): Typically 8–29 nmol/L (varies by age and laboratory).
High testosterone: May indicate testicular or adrenal tumours, anabolic steroid use, or early puberty.
Low testosterone: May suggest hypogonadism, age-related decline, obesity, chronic illness, pituitary disorders, or medication side effects.
Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
FSH is produced by the pituitary gland and regulates sperm production and testicular function. Abnormal levels can indicate fertility issues or pituitary disorders.
High FSH: May suggest testicular failure or primary hypogonadism.
Low FSH: May indicate pituitary dysfunction or secondary hypogonadism.
Luteinising Hormone (LH)
LH stimulates testosterone production in the testes. Imbalances can affect libido, energy, and fertility.
High LH: May suggest testicular dysfunction.
Low LH: May indicate pituitary problems or hypothalamic disorders.
Prolactin
Prolactin is produced by the pituitary gland. Elevated levels can suppress testosterone production and affect sexual function.
High prolactin: May indicate pituitary tumours, medications, stress, or thyroid problems, and can cause erectile dysfunction and low libido.
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)
SHBG is a protein that binds to testosterone, controlling how much testosterone is “free” and biologically active in your body.
High SHBG: Reduces available free testosterone, potentially causing low testosterone symptoms despite normal total testosterone.
Low SHBG: Can indicate metabolic syndrome, obesity, or insulin resistance.
Free Androgen Index (FAI)
FAI is a calculated ratio showing the balance between total testosterone and SHBG, indicating how much biologically active testosterone is available in your body.
What This Test Does Not Include
This test measures male hormones only and does not assess cortisol, thyroid hormones, vitamin D, or other general health markers. If your results suggest a hormone disorder, your GP may recommend follow-up tests or imaging to confirm the diagnosis and identify the underlying cause.
For a broader health assessment, you may want to consider our Well Person Blood Test or Thyroid Function Test, which include male hormones alongside other important health markers for a more comprehensive evaluation.
Key Benefits Of Male Hormone Testing
Understanding your male hormone levels through professional blood testing provides valuable insights that can significantly improve your health and quality of life. A blood test for male hormones can identify issues early and guide treatment decisions. Here are the key benefits:
1. Identify The Root Cause Of Symptoms
Symptoms like low libido, fatigue, erectile dysfunction, and mood changes can have multiple causes. A male hormone blood test helps pinpoint whether hormonal imbalances are the underlying issue, allowing for targeted treatment rather than guesswork.
2. Early Detection Of Hormone Disorders
Detecting conditions like hypogonadism, pituitary dysfunction, or elevated prolactin early enables prompt treatment, preventing progression to more serious complications such as osteoporosis, infertility, or cardiovascular problems.
3. Guide Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) Decisions
If you’re considering TRT, baseline testosterone blood testing is essential. It confirms whether you genuinely have low testosterone and establishes starting levels for monitoring treatment effectiveness and safety.
4. Monitor Age-Related Hormone Changes
Testosterone naturally declines with age (about 1% per year after age 30). Regular testing helps distinguish normal age-related decline from treatable hormone disorders, ensuring you maintain optimal health as you age.
5. Improve Fertility And Reproductive Health
FSH and LH testing provides crucial information about sperm production and testicular function. If you’re planning a family or experiencing fertility concerns, these tests help identify and address hormonal barriers to conception.
6. Support Weight Management And Muscle Health
Low testosterone is linked to increased body fat, reduced muscle mass, and decreased metabolism. Identifying and correcting hormone imbalances can support your fitness goals and help maintain healthy body composition.
7. Peace Of Mind And Proactive Health Management
Even if your results are normal, testing provides reassurance and establishes a baseline for future comparison. Proactive monitoring enables you to catch changes early and maintain optimal hormone health throughout your life.
8. Convenient At-Home Testing With Professional Results
Our qualified nurse visits your home for professional venous blood sampling, eliminating GP waiting times and clinic visits. Your sample is analysed in CQC-regulated UK laboratories, with results typically available within 2-3 days.
Who Should Consider Male Hormone Testing?
A blood test for male hormones is valuable for any man concerned about hormonal health, but it’s particularly important if you’re experiencing specific symptoms or risk factors. Consider this test if you:
Are Experiencing Low Testosterone Symptoms
Notice reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, persistent fatigue that rest doesn’t resolve, loss of muscle mass despite exercise, increased body fat (especially around the abdomen), mood changes including depression or irritability, or difficulty concentrating and mental fog.
Are Over 40 And Concerned About Age-Related Decline
Testosterone levels naturally decline by about 1% per year after age 30. If you’re over 40 and noticing changes in energy, strength, sexual function, or vitality, testing establishes whether your levels are within normal range or require intervention.
Have Fertility Concerns Or Are Planning A Family
Low testosterone, elevated prolactin, or imbalances in FSH and LH can all affect sperm production and fertility. Testing identifies hormonal barriers to conception that can often be treated.
Are Experiencing Unexplained Weight Gain Or Difficulty Building Muscle
Hormonal imbalances, particularly low testosterone, make it harder to maintain lean muscle mass and easier to gain body fat, even with proper diet and exercise. Testing reveals whether hormones are contributing to these challenges.
Have Been Diagnosed With Related Health Conditions
Conditions like Type 2 diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, sleep apnoea, osteoporosis, or chronic illness can affect hormone levels. Testing helps ensure these conditions aren’t causing or being worsened by hormonal imbalances.
Are Considering Or Currently Using Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)
Baseline testing is essential before starting TRT to confirm deficiency, and regular monitoring during treatment ensures optimal dosing and safety. Never start TRT without professional blood test confirmation.
Have Symptoms Of High Prolactin
Symptoms like breast tissue development (gynaecomastia), nipple discharge, reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, or visual disturbances may indicate elevated prolactin, which requires investigation.
Want Proactive Health Monitoring
Even without symptoms, establishing baseline hormone levels in your 30s or 40s provides valuable reference data for future comparison, enabling early detection of changes before they cause noticeable problems.
Have Unexplained Symptoms Despite Normal Hormone Levels
If male hormone testing shows normal results but you still experience fatigue, weight changes, or mood issues, consider checking your thyroid function, as thyroid disorders can mimic hormone imbalance symptoms.
How To Choose The Right Male Hormone Test
When selecting a male hormone blood test, several key factors ensure you receive accurate, reliable results that provide genuine value. Here’s what to consider:
Professional Venous Blood Sampling vs. Finger-Prick Tests
Venous blood samples taken by qualified nurses provide significantly larger sample volumes and higher-quality specimens compared to finger-prick capillary samples. This results in more accurate measurements, particularly for hormones like testosterone where precision is critical. At Blood Test UK, we only use professional venous sampling to ensure clinical-grade results.
Accredited UK Laboratory Analysis
Your blood sample should be analysed in a UK-accredited laboratory (UKAS ISO 15189 accreditation) that follows rigorous quality control protocols. This ensures your results are reliable, accurate, and accepted by GPs and specialists throughout the NHS and private healthcare systems.
Comprehensive Hormone Panel
A complete male hormone test should measure total testosterone, free testosterone (or FAI), FSH, LH, prolactin, and SHBG. Single-hormone tests may miss important interactions and imbalances that explain your symptoms. Our standard panel includes all essential markers for comprehensive assessment.
Clear, GP-Shareable Results
Your results should be provided in a professional PDF report with clear reference ranges, flagged abnormalities, and explanations you can easily share with your GP or healthcare provider. Avoid services that provide vague or difficult-to-interpret results.
Qualified Healthcare Professionals
Ensure blood samples are collected by qualified, insured nurses or phlebotomists with proper training. Amateur collection increases the risk of sample contamination, haemolysis, or inadequate sample volumes that lead to inconclusive results.
Transparent Pricing And Fast Turnaround
Look for services with clear, upfront pricing (no hidden fees) and realistic turnaround times. At Blood Test UK, our male hormone test starts from £134 with results typically available within 2-3 days after the sample reaches the laboratory.
Why Choose Blood Test UK?
Our service combines professional at-home nurse visits, CQC-regulated standards, UK-accredited laboratory analysis, fast results, and over 16 years of private blood testing experience. We’ve completed over 2,000 male hormone tests across the UK, trusted by patients, athletes, and health-conscious professionals for accurate, reliable hormone assessment.
Why Choose Blood Test UK For Your At-Home Male Hormone Blood Test?
| Feature | Finger-Prick Kits | GP/NHS | Blood Test UK Male Hormone Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sample Quality | ❌ Capillary (finger-prick) | ✅ Venous (arm draw in clinic) | ✅ Venous blood taken at home by qualified nurse |
| Morning Testing (Peak Testosterone) | ⚠️ Self-timed (may miss optimal 7-11 AM window) | ⚠️ Clinic hours may not align with morning peak | ✅ Nurse visit scheduled for optimal 7-11 AM window |
| Wait Time | ⚠️ 7-14 days including postage | ❌ 2-6 weeks for NHS appointment + results | ✅ Results in 2-3 days after sample collection |
| Convenience | ✅ Self-test at home | ❌ GP appointment + clinic visit during working hours | ✅ Nurse visits your home at a time that suits you |
| Comprehensive Panel | ⚠️ Often testosterone only | ⚠️ May require multiple tests | ✅ Full panel: Testosterone, FSH, LH, Prolactin, SHBG, FAI |
| Sample Accuracy | ⚠️ Capillary samples affected by technique | ✅ Professional venous draw | ✅ Professional venous draw by qualified nurse |
| GP-Shareable Report | ⚠️ Varies by provider | ✅ NHS record integrated | ✅ Professional PDF report with reference ranges |
| Lab Accreditation | ⚠️ Varies by provider | ✅ NHS-accredited | ✅ UKAS ISO 15189-accredited laboratory |
Male Hormone Testing Methods And Frequency
Venous Blood Testing vs. Other Methods
There are several methods available for hormone testing, each with different levels of accuracy and clinical acceptance:
Venous Blood Testing (Our Method)
Professional venous blood sampling taken by a qualified nurse provides the gold standard for male hormone measurement. This method offers the largest sample volume, highest accuracy, and is the standard used by GPs, endocrinologists, and hospitals throughout the UK. Results are clinically reliable and accepted by all healthcare professionals.
Finger-Prick Capillary Blood Tests
While convenient for home use, finger-prick tests provide smaller sample volumes and are more prone to contamination, haemolysis, and collection errors. Hormone measurements from capillary blood may not correlate as accurately with venous blood levels, potentially leading to misdiagnosis or the need for repeat testing.
Saliva Testing
Saliva tests measure free hormone levels but are not widely accepted for testosterone diagnosis in clinical practice. Results can be affected by eating, drinking, oral health, and collection technique. NHS and most private endocrinologists rely on venous blood testing for diagnostic decisions.
How Often Should You Test Male Hormones?
Initial Testing
If you’re experiencing symptoms of hormone imbalance (low libido, fatigue, erectile dysfunction, mood changes), test as soon as possible to establish baseline levels and guide diagnosis.
Confirmatory Testing
If initial results show low testosterone or other abnormalities, your GP will typically recommend repeat testing 4-12 weeks later to confirm results, as hormone levels can fluctuate. Two abnormal results are usually required before starting treatment like TRT.
Monitoring During Treatment
If you’re on testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), test every 3-6 months initially to ensure optimal dosing, then every 6-12 months once levels are stable. Regular monitoring prevents over-treatment and catches side effects early.
Annual Screening For Men Over 40
Consider annual or biennial testing if you’re over 40, even without symptoms, to catch age-related decline early and establish trends over time. Early detection enables proactive intervention before symptoms significantly impact quality of life.
After Lifestyle Changes
If you’ve made significant lifestyle modifications (weight loss, exercise program, stress management), retest after 3-6 months to assess whether these changes have positively impacted your hormone levels.
What To Do With Your Male Hormone Results
Receiving your male hormone blood test results is just the first step. Here’s how to take effective action based on your findings:
Share Your Results With Your GP
Your results PDF is designed to be GP-shareable. Book an appointment with your GP to discuss the findings, particularly if any results fall outside normal reference ranges. Your GP can interpret results in the context of your full medical history, symptoms, and clinical examination, and recommend appropriate next steps.
If Results Are Abnormal
Abnormal hormone levels don’t automatically mean you have a disease, but they do warrant further investigation. Your GP may:
- Request repeat testing to confirm results (hormone levels can fluctuate)
- Order additional blood tests (such as ACTH, cortisol, thyroid function, or vitamin D)
- Arrange imaging studies (MRI scans to check for pituitary tumours if prolactin is elevated)
- Refer you to an endocrinologist for specialist assessment
- Discuss treatment options such as testosterone replacement therapy, medication to lower prolactin, or lifestyle interventions
If Results Are Normal
Normal hormone levels are reassuring, but if you’re still experiencing symptoms, don’t ignore them. Your GP may investigate other potential causes such as thyroid disorders, vitamin deficiencies, sleep apnoea, depression, or chronic illness. Symptoms can have multiple causes, and hormone testing is just one piece of the diagnostic puzzle.
Lifestyle Modifications To Support Hormone Health
Regardless of your results, certain lifestyle changes can support optimal male hormone production:
- Maintain healthy body weight: Obesity lowers testosterone and increases oestrogen conversion
- Exercise regularly: Resistance training and high-intensity interval training boost testosterone
- Get adequate sleep: Most testosterone is produced during sleep; aim for 7-9 hours nightly
- Manage stress: Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which suppresses testosterone production
- Limit alcohol: Excessive drinking damages the testes and impairs hormone production
- Eat a balanced diet: Ensure adequate protein, healthy fats, zinc, vitamin D, and magnesium
Consider Follow-Up Testing
If you’re starting treatment (such as TRT), regular monitoring is essential to ensure optimal dosing and safety. Retest every 3-6 months initially, then annually once levels are stable. Even without treatment, retesting every 1-2 years establishes trends and catches changes early.
Nurse appointments fill up fast — book now to secure your preferred date.
Other Questions
- Loss of libido
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Tiredness
- Loss of muscle mass
- Infertility
- Hot flushes
- Breast tissue development
- Depression
- Weight gain
- Low self esteem
- Less body hair
This blood test is to check on:
- Male hormone levels
For best results (if medically suitable) it is advisable to fast (water is allowed) 12 hours prior to the test.
Collection method: Venous blood
Results available: 1-2 days after the sample has reached the laboratory.
Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
The test will measure the FSH in your blood. FSH plays an important role in sexual development and sexual functioning.
Luteinizing hormone (LH)
The test will measure the LH in your blood. LH plays and important role as it affects the sex organs in both men and women.
Testosterone
Testosterone is the primary sex hormone and anabolic steroid in males. It plays a major role in the reproductive tissues such as the prostate and testes. In women it is produced in the ovaries in small amounts and aids the reproductive system.
Free Androgen Index (FAI)
FAI is a ratio used to detect abnormal androgen levels.
Prolactin
The test will measure the amount of prolactin in the blood. Prolactin is a hormone made by the pituitary gland.
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)
The test will measure the levels of SHBG in your blood. SHBG is a protein made by the liver and attaches itself to sex hormones in both men and women.
Evidence Behind Our Male Hormone Testing
Our at-home Male Hormone Blood Test service is aligned with UK clinical guidelines and international laboratory standards, ensuring your results are suitable for supporting diagnosis and treatment decisions related to testosterone deficiency, fertility issues, and male hormone imbalances.
- Testosterone Testing For Hypogonadism:
UK and international guidance recommends serum testosterone testing for men presenting with symptoms of hypogonadism, including reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, and loss of muscle mass. Morning testosterone levels (7-11 AM) provide the most accurate baseline measurement, as testosterone naturally peaks during this time and declines throughout the day.
(Source: NHS low testosterone guidance, British Society for Sexual Medicine) - Comprehensive Hormone Panel For Accurate Diagnosis:
Testing testosterone alone may miss underlying causes. FSH, LH, and prolactin measurements help distinguish between primary testicular failure and secondary pituitary dysfunction, guiding appropriate treatment. Elevated prolactin requires different management and may indicate pituitary tumours requiring imaging investigation.
(Source: Endocrine Society clinical practice guidelines) - Venous Blood Sampling For Accuracy:
Venous blood collection provides sufficient sample volume and consistent quality for laboratory hormone analysis, reducing the risk of sample errors compared with capillary finger-prick samples. This is particularly important for testosterone testing where accurate measurement is critical for diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
(Source: UK Health Security Agency laboratory guidance) - Age-Related Testosterone Decline:
Large population studies show testosterone levels decline by approximately 1-2% per year after age 30-40. However, not all age-related decline requires treatment—symptoms and clinical assessment, not just laboratory values, guide treatment decisions. Early baseline testing enables meaningful comparison as you age.
(Source: NHS male sexual health guidance) - Laboratory Quality And Accreditation:
UKAS ISO 15189 is the international standard for medical laboratories covering sample handling, testing protocols, and result reporting. Using accredited laboratories ensures your male hormone test results are reliable, traceable, and suitable for clinical decision-making in NHS and private healthcare settings.
(Source: UKAS medical laboratory accreditation, Royal College of Pathologists)
These guidelines and standards shape how we design our Male Hormone Blood Test, schedule morning nurse visits, and partner with UKAS ISO 15189-accredited laboratories, so your results are produced to the same quality benchmarks used for decision-making in NHS and private healthcare settings.
Preparing For Your Male Hormone Blood Test
Proper preparation ensures the most accurate results from your male hormone blood test. Follow these simple guidelines:
Timing Your Test
Testosterone levels are highest in the early morning (typically between 7 AM and 11 AM) and decline throughout the day. For the most clinically useful baseline measurement, we recommend scheduling your nurse appointment for the morning, ideally before 11 AM. This captures peak testosterone levels and provides the most accurate assessment.
Fasting Requirements
You do not need to fast for a male hormone blood test. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment. However, avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test, as it can temporarily affect hormone levels.
Medications And Supplements
Continue taking any prescribed medications unless your GP advises otherwise. However, inform the nurse and note on your test form if you’re taking testosterone replacement therapy, anabolic steroids, finasteride, or any hormone-affecting medications, as these will significantly influence results.
Physical Activity
Avoid intense exercise or heavy weightlifting for 24 hours before your test, as strenuous activity can temporarily elevate testosterone and other hormone levels, potentially skewing results.
Sleep And Stress
Try to get adequate sleep the night before your test (7-8 hours), as poor sleep can affect hormone levels. Chronic stress also impacts hormones, but there’s no need to avoid normal daily stress before the test—your results will reflect your typical hormone status.
What To Expect During The Nurse Visit
Your qualified nurse will arrive at your home at the scheduled time with all necessary equipment. The venous blood draw typically takes just 5-10 minutes. The nurse will collect a small blood sample from a vein in your arm (similar to a standard blood test at your GP surgery). The sample is then sent to our UK-accredited laboratory for analysis, with results typically available within 2-3 days.
How it Works
Read about Fingerprick VS Venous blood sample 
1. Order a Test
Order your test, and then Answer the Questions about why you’re taking that 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.
Understanding Your Male Hormone Results
Your male hormone blood test results will show measured levels of each hormone alongside established reference ranges. Here’s a guide to interpreting common results:
| Hormone | Low Level | Normal Range | High Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Testosterone | Below 8 nmol/L Symptoms: Low libido, fatigue, muscle loss, erectile dysfunction |
8-29 nmol/L (varies by age) | Above 29 nmol/L May indicate: Tumours, steroid use |
| FSH | Below 1.5 IU/L May indicate: Pituitary dysfunction |
1.5-12.4 IU/L | Above 12.4 IU/L May indicate: Testicular failure, infertility |
| LH | Below 1.7 IU/L May indicate: Pituitary problems |
1.7-8.6 IU/L | Above 8.6 IU/L May indicate: Testicular dysfunction |
| Prolactin | Below 86 mU/L Rarely clinically significant |
86-324 mU/L | Above 324 mU/L Symptoms: Erectile dysfunction, low libido, gynaecomastia |
| SHBG | Below 16 nmol/L May indicate: Metabolic syndrome, obesity |
16-55 nmol/L | Above 55 nmol/L Reduces available free testosterone |
Important: Reference ranges can vary slightly between laboratories. Your results should always be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of your symptoms, medical history, and clinical examination. Abnormal results don’t necessarily mean you have a disease—they indicate the need for further investigation and professional medical advice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Male Hormone Testing
What symptoms suggest I need a male hormone blood test?
Common symptoms include reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, persistent fatigue, loss of muscle mass, increased body fat (particularly around the abdomen), mood changes (depression, irritability), difficulty concentrating, reduced body hair growth, hot flushes, breast tissue development, or sleep disturbances. If you're experiencing any combination of these symptoms, a male hormone blood test can help identify whether hormonal imbalances are the underlying cause.
Do I need to fast before a male hormone blood test?
No, fasting is not required for male hormone testing. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment. However, we recommend avoiding alcohol for 24 hours before the test and scheduling your nurse visit for the morning (ideally 7-11 AM) when testosterone levels are naturally highest, providing the most accurate baseline measurement.
How long does it take to get male hormone test results?
Results are typically available within 2-3 days after your blood sample reaches our UK-accredited laboratory. You'll receive a comprehensive PDF report via email showing all measured hormone levels, reference ranges, and flagged abnormalities that you can share with your GP or healthcare provider.
Can I use these results with my NHS GP?
Yes, absolutely. Your results are analysed in UKAS ISO 15189-accredited UK laboratories using the same testing standards as NHS hospitals. The professional PDF report is designed to be GP-shareable and will be accepted by NHS and private healthcare professionals throughout the UK for diagnosis and treatment decisions.
What does a blood test for male hormones check?
A blood test for male hormones checks your levels of testosterone (total and free), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH), prolactin, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and Free Androgen Index (FAI). These hormones regulate sexual function, muscle mass, energy, mood, and fertility. Our comprehensive panel provides a complete picture of your hormonal health.
What's the difference between total testosterone and free testosterone?
Total testosterone measures all testosterone in your blood, including testosterone bound to proteins like SHBG. Free testosterone (or Free Androgen Index) measures only the biologically active testosterone available to your tissues. Some men have normal total testosterone but low free testosterone due to high SHBG, which can still cause symptoms. Our comprehensive test measures both to provide a complete picture.
Will low testosterone results mean I need treatment?
Not necessarily. Low testosterone results indicate the need for further investigation and discussion with your GP. Your doctor will consider your symptoms, medical history, age, and lifestyle factors alongside test results. Some men benefit from lifestyle modifications (weight loss, exercise, stress management) rather than immediate hormone replacement therapy. Treatment decisions should always be made with a qualified healthcare professional.
Is at-home blood testing as accurate as GP testing?
Yes, when performed correctly. Our service uses qualified nurses for professional venous blood sampling (the same method used by GPs) and analysis in the same UKAS-accredited laboratories that process NHS samples. The key difference is convenience—you get the same quality testing at home without GP waiting times. However, finger-prick home testing kits are less accurate than professional venous sampling.
Can stress or lack of sleep affect my testosterone levels?
Yes, both chronic stress and poor sleep can suppress testosterone production. Most testosterone is produced during sleep, so consistent sleep deprivation lowers levels. Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which inhibits testosterone synthesis. However, your test results will reflect your actual hormone status at the time of testing, which is valuable information. If results are low, your GP can help identify whether lifestyle factors are contributing and recommend appropriate interventions.
Do you offer hormone testing for women?
Yes, we offer a comprehensive Female Hormone Blood Test for women experiencing symptoms like irregular periods, menopause, PCOS, fertility concerns, or hormonal imbalances. The test includes oestrogen, progesterone, FSH, LH, prolactin, and testosterone levels, with the same professional at-home nurse visit service.
