The key to true men's health
A testosterone test (or hormone profile) doesn't just provide you with an isolated lab value; it opens the door to a profound understanding of your hormonal health. Only by knowing how much testosterone is actually present and available, and how it interacts with SHBG, LH, estradiol, prolactin, and TSH, can you decide whether testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) , lifestyle optimization, or further diagnostic testing is advisable.
What is a testosterone test?
A modern test includes:
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Total testosterone (blood level in the morning between 7 and 10 a.m., fasting)
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Free testosterone (calculated or directly measured)
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SHBG (binding protein)
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LH / FSH (for the clarification of primary vs. secondary hypogonadism)
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Estradiol , prolactin , possibly DHEA
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TSH , fT3/fT4 (thyroid), hematocrit , PSA , triglycerides , possibly ferritin
→ Such a comprehensive test ensures that clinical testosterone deficiency is assessed not only based on laboratory values alone, but also in conjunction with symptoms and important contextual markers.
The premium testosterone test from Adon Health offers a useful panel for convenient use at home, with additional medical interpretation available if required.
When does a test make sense?
You should consider a hormone check if you:
- If you experience symptoms of testosterone deficiency (e.g., loss of libido, lack of energy, muscle loss, low mood) → see article “Testosterone deficiency”.
- If you want to know whether your free testosterone is sufficient in relation to SHBG → see article “SHBG”.
- If you want to make a decision about testosterone gel , testosterone enanthate or other TRT forms → see “Testosterone Gel” & “Testosterone Enanthate”.
- You want to relate your testosterone level to your metabolic status, thyroid function (TSH) , or triglycerides .
The test is also ideal as a monitoring tool during testosterone replacement therapy .
Procedure in practice
- Blood sample taken in the morning (between 7 and 10 a.m., on an empty stomach)
- Complete the symptom checklist (e.g., libido, training success, energy level)
- Analysis of the panel at Adon Health including medical evaluation
- Decision on further steps:
- Lifestyle optimization
- TRT (e.g. with testosterone enanthate or testosterone gel ) → see “Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)”
- Close monitoring (SHBG, hematocrit, PSA, lipids, etc.)
The test can also be used for monitoring progress, e.g. after 3–6 months of therapy or lifestyle changes.
Why the test is more than a "value"
- Total value ≠ effect: Only free testosterone is biologically active. A high total value can also lead to symptoms if SHBG is high.
- Understanding hormonal axes: LH/FSH provide clues to the cause of the deficiency (testes vs. pituitary gland).
- Making cross-connections visible: e.g., how much influence thyroid (TSH), metabolism (triglycerides, insulin), inflammatory status (PSA, ferritin) has on your testosterone.
- Avoid incorrect decisions: e.g., when TRT is started without a clear indication.
Conclusion
A testosterone test is more than just a lab test; it's the first step towards a true assessment of your hormonal health. Only by understanding the entire hormonal dynamic , including SHBG, free T4, LH/FSH, thyroid function, and lipid profile, can targeted, medically sound measures be taken. The premium testosterone test from Adon Health offers a clinically proven, safe, and convenient solution.
If you take your symptoms seriously, this test is the first step towards clarity and, if necessary, the start of a well-founded testosterone replacement therapy under medical supervision.
