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Free testosterone: normal values and symptoms

Free testosterone is the bioavailable portion of testosterone that directly influences your energy, muscle maintenance, and mood. Monitoring this marker may help detect hormonal changes early. Discuss your results with a healthcare provider for personalised health guidance.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Reference Ranges

See the value that applies to you:

Choose male or female — this range differs by sex.

Enter your age — this range changes with age.

This range also depends on context such as cycle phase or sample material; the highlighted rows apply to your group.

Male Your group
pmol/L
Low 170 Normal 700 High
Female Your group
pmol/L
Low 3 Normal 29 High

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Check your own value

Free Testosterone: what this test measures

This test measures the fraction of testosterone not bound to proteins like SHBG or albumin. Free testosterone represents roughly 1-3% of total testosterone but is the most biologically active form. Your healthcare provider may compare this with total testosterone for a complete picture.

Free Testosterone: why this value matters

Free testosterone reflects your body's usable androgen supply, influencing vitality, body composition, and cognitive function. Changes in levels could suggest age-related decline or other factors worth investigating. A healthcare provider can help you understand your results and suggest appropriate next steps.

Free Testosterone: how the blood test works

Referral
No GP referral needed. After the order we arrange the referral through ZorgDomein, within one business day; orders after 17:00 or at the weekend start on the next business day. ZorgDomein emails a barcode, and that barcode is what the draw site needs.
The draw
A blood draw from a vein in the arm, at a partner laboratory's draw site. No home kit, no finger prick.
Which test
on its own €105,- Free Testosterone Test · €140,- · Hormones Man · €129,- · InsideTracker Fitness · €199,- · InsideTracker Hormone Balance · €279,-
Where
650+ draw sites run by independent laboratories across the Netherlands. Draw sites

Free Testosterone: how to prepare

  1. Preferably in the morning

    Recommended

    A morning draw makes this value easiest to compare with its reference range. Plan the draw before 10:00 if you can.

  • Water is always fine. Drink as usual beforehand, it makes the draw easier.
  • Take your usual medication, unless your own doctor told you otherwise.

Free Testosterone: when is testing worthwhile?

Your healthcare provider may recommend testing free testosterone when experiencing fatigue, reduced libido, muscle loss, or mood changes. It could also be useful when total testosterone is normal but symptoms persist. Consult your provider for advice on optimal testing timing.

Free Testosterone: symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

Some people may experience persistent fatigue, decreased muscle mass, low mood, reduced libido, or difficulty concentrating when free testosterone is low. Weight gain and decreased bone density could also suggest insufficient bioavailable testosterone. A healthcare provider can help assess your symptoms.

High Levels

Elevated free testosterone may be associated with acne, excess hair growth, irritability, or aggression. In women, high levels could suggest polycystic ovary syndrome or other hormonal conditions. Your healthcare provider can evaluate whether your levels require further investigation.

Free Testosterone: what to do about an abnormal value

Male

If Low

Low free testosterone may cause symptoms despite normal total testosterone. Consider SHBG testing and consultation with an endocrinologist.

If High

Elevated free testosterone may indicate steroid use or testicular tumors. Consult with an endocrinologist for comprehensive evaluation.

Female

If Low

Low free testosterone may cause decreased libido and energy. Consider comprehensive hormone evaluation with an endocrinologist.

If High

High free testosterone may indicate PCOS or adrenal disorders. Consider evaluation for PCOS and lifestyle modifications including weight management.

Free Testosterone: lifestyle and this value

Regular resistance training, adequate sleep, stress management, and maintaining a healthy body weight may support healthy testosterone levels. Ensuring sufficient zinc and vitamin D intake could also contribute positively. Always discuss supplementation or significant lifestyle changes with your healthcare provider.

Free Testosterone: frequently asked questions

What is free testosterone?

Free testosterone is the unbound, active form that can directly enter cells and drive biological effects.

How does it differ from total testosterone?

Total testosterone includes bound and unbound forms; free testosterone measures only the active, usable fraction.

Can exercise affect free testosterone?

Resistance training and healthy sleep patterns may support free testosterone. Consult your provider for guidance.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.

Medical reviewer

Medical standards

Dr. Naimi oversees the medical standards behind our content and assessments.

Medical policy
CIBG Ministerie van Volksgezondheid,
Welzijn en Sport
Official BIG registration BIG 49928676701 Opens in a new tab

Free Testosterone

€105,-