Hormones Man

Testosterone levels can be influenced by age, lifestyle, body composition, sleep, and stress. Changes tend to develop gradually and may overlap with other causes of symptoms such as fatigue or reduced energy. Measuring testosterone alongside SHBG and albumin provides a more nuanced view than a total testosterone measurement alone, because these proteins affect how much testosterone is available to the body.

This test may be relevant for:

• Men who are curious about their testosterone levels
• Those experiencing symptoms that could be associated with hormonal changes, such as fatigue, reduced motivation, or changes in body composition
• Anyone who wants to understand how much of their testosterone is freely available versus bound to proteins
• Men who have previously had testosterone values outside the expected range and want to follow up

This panel includes four markers:

• Total Testosterone: the overall amount of testosterone circulating in the blood, both bound and unbound
• Free Testosterone: the portion of testosterone not bound to proteins, which is available for use by the body
• SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin): a protein that binds testosterone; higher SHBG levels mean less testosterone is freely available
• Albumin: a protein involved in testosterone transport; used to help calculate bioavailable testosterone

Total testosterone provides a general view, but it does not tell the full story. A man with normal total testosterone but elevated SHBG may have lower free testosterone than expected. Conversely, lower SHBG can result in higher free testosterone even when total levels appear modest.

Free testosterone is often considered a more functional measure, as it reflects what is actually available to tissues. The combination of all four markers helps provide context that a single testosterone value cannot offer on its own.

This test uses a blood sample collected at a certified sample point (afnamepunt). With over 750 partner locations across the Netherlands, you can select a convenient location. A trained phlebotomist performs the blood draw, and results are typically available within a few working days.

This test may be useful when:

• You want to check your testosterone and understand how much is freely available
• You experience symptoms such as persistent fatigue, reduced energy, or mood changes that could be associated with hormonal shifts
• You want a baseline measurement for future comparison
• You have had a total testosterone test before and want additional context from SHBG and free testosterone

Each marker is shown with your value and the reference range. Testosterone levels are influenced by the time of day, sleep quality, and other factors, so values should be interpreted with this in mind. A total testosterone that appears within range but with elevated SHBG may still indicate lower than expected free testosterone.

Your report includes explanations for each marker. We recommend discussing the results with a healthcare provider, who can interpret them alongside your symptoms and health history.

Fasting is recommended but not strictly required. Testosterone levels are typically at their highest in the morning, so collecting your sample between 7:00 and 10:00 AM is recommended for the most representative results. Avoid strenuous exercise in the 24 hours before the test.

Your results are typically available within a few working days. The report includes your values with reference ranges and plain-language explanations for each marker. If any value falls outside the expected range, this is highlighted. We recommend discussing the results with a healthcare provider, who can place them in the context of your symptoms and overall health.