About Testosterone

Testosterone is commonly thought of as a "male hormone" or a “male sex hormone," and certain traditionally masculine characteristics are the result of testosterone production in the body. However, people of all sexes produce testosterone and need healthy levels of it to keep their bodies functioning normally. In those assigned male at birth, this sex hormone is vital for everything from libido to facial hair to muscle mass to voice depth to energy levels and more, both during puberty and throughout adulthood. Low levels of testosterone or “low T,” may cause a variety of health challenges.

How to test testosterone levels?

You can check testosterone levels with an at-home test or at a clinic. The Everlywell test uses a small, finger prick blood sample that you collect at home. You then mail the sample to a lab and get your results online. Testosterone testing at a clinic usually involves a venipuncture blood test in which blood is drawn from a vein in your arm (known as a serum testosterone test).

Your results will provide detailed information on whether your testosterone level is normal, low, or high compared to reference ranges in your age group. If you’re experiencing signs and symptoms of abnormal testosterone levels, sharing your test results with your health care provider can help them recommend possible next steps to take.

Your results from this testosterone level test will include evidence-based guidance about lifestyle changes you can make that can positively impact your testosterone and—more importantly—your health. It's always a great idea to share your results with your healthcare provider, and this testosterone test gives you a head start.

Common signs of low testosterone levels

• Feelings of depression
• Lowered self-confidence
• Poor concentration
• Bad sleep
• Lowered energy levels
• Body fat increase & muscle mass decrease
• Low sex drive
• Osteoporosis/brittle bones/bone breaks

Common signs of high testosterone levels

• Increased energy levels
• High sex drive
• Changes in mood that can include aggression
• Increases in body hair
• Baldness or thinning of head hair

When Should You Measure Testosterone Levels?

Testosterone levels typically show a diurnal pattern, being highest in the early morning and decreasing throughout the day. If you suspect you have low testosterone levels, it's advisable to get tested in the morning (between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m.) when levels are naturally at their peak.

How much does a testosterone test cost?

The cost of a testosterone test depends on a number of factors—like whether you’re getting tested at a clinic or at home.

If you get a lab test at a clinic, prices can range from about $80 to several hundred dollars.

The Everlywell at-home lab Testosterone Test is $69—including shipping. There are no hidden fees: we’re committed to transparent pricing for all tests we offer. Plus, we can provide itemized receipts for the test you order—which you can submit to your HSA/FSA benefits coordinator for reimbursement.

What’s the difference between a total testosterone test and a free testosterone test?

Some of the testosterone in the body circulates freely, but much of it is bound to other proteins in the bloodstream like sex hormone-binding globulin (or SHBG). Testosterone that circulates freely (unbound) is known as free testosterone. (In general, higher SHBG levels correspond to lower levels of free testosterone.)

Total testosterone, on the other hand, represents the total amount of testosterone in the blood – both free and bound. So your total testosterone levels should be higher than your free testosterone levels.

While a free testosterone panel measures your unbound testosterone level, the Everlywell Testosterone Test - Male measures your total testosterone level, which includes all forms of testosterone in the body.

Learn more: Testing Your Testosterone Levels? Know The Difference Between Free T And Total T

Why is testosterone considered a male sex hormone?

Testosterone is widely regarded as a “male sex hormone.” This is because testosterone drives the development of many sexual characteristics in people assigned male at birth, such as testes and sperm – as well as secondary characteristics like male hair patterns on the body.

However, testosterone is also a very important hormone for those assigned female at birth. For example, testosterone production contributes to the maintenance and growth of bones, increases in muscle mass, decreases in body fat, and more.

Learn more about testosterone levels in men: Low Testosterone Levels in Men: Causes and Symptoms

Learn more about testosterone levels in women: Unhealthy Testosterone Levels In Women: Causes and Symptoms

Can this test help me see if my testosterone supplements (like gels or implants) are working?

This test can help you monitor your testosterone levels, so it’s an easy, reliable way to track the effectiveness of different kinds of testosterone therapy you may be undergoing, such as testosterone replacement therapy.

Does exercise increase testosterone levels?

Exercise, particularly resistance training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT), can lead to short-term increases in testosterone levels. Regular exercise can contribute to overall health and well-being, but it's important to note that the impact on testosterone levels can be influenced by various factors.

What is the average testosterone level by age?

According to the American Urological Association, a man should have a testosterone level of at least 300 ng/dL. Here are the recommended testosterone levels for males according to different age groups:

• Infants and Young Children: In the first few months of life, male babies typically produce 75-400 ng/dL of testosterone; as they reach the age of 10 to 11 years, the range shifts to 7-130 ng/dL.
• Early Adolescents: Between the ages of 12 to 13 years, testosterone levels are expected to be around 7-800 ng/dL; by 15 to 16 years old, the range should be 100-1,200 ng/dL.
• Late Adolescents: Individuals between 17 to 18 years old are expected to have testosterone levels ranging from 300 to 1,200 ng/dL.
• Adults: For adults aged 19 years and older, the acceptable range for testosterone levels is generally between 240 and 950 ng/dL.

Do foods help with testosterone?

Certain foods contain nutrients that can support healthy testosterone levels, although they may not directly "boost" testosterone levels in a dramatic way. Foods that are high in antioxidants, zinc, magnesium, selenium, and vitamin D may help support testosterone levels. These foods include:

• Ginger
• Fatty fish
• Oysters
• Leafy green vegetables
• Onions
• Eggs
• Extra-virgin olive oil

Can testosterone be restored naturally?

Yes, there are natural approaches that can help support healthy testosterone levels, although they might not necessarily "restore" levels to a specific point. Here are some strategies that may contribute to maintaining testosterone levels naturally:

• Lifestyle factors: Getting regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight
• Balanced nutrient-rich diet: Foods rich in zinc, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants
• Adequate sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep per night
• Stress management: Stress can negatively impact hormone levels. Practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga
• Limiting alcohol and caffeine

It's important to note that while these natural approaches can contribute to overall well-being and hormonal health, they may not be a substitute for medical intervention when clinically low testosterone levels are diagnosed.

• Low Testosterone Symptoms in Men
• Does Working Out Increase Testosterone?
• Supplements That May Increase Testosterone