Frequently Asked Questions

• Experiencing symptoms of low testosterone (T)?

  Potential symptoms include a lowered sex drive (libido), erectile dysfunction, loss of facial or body hair, loss of muscle mass, thinning bones, enlarged breasts, unexplained anemia, low sperm count and reduced energy.

• Concerned about testosterone levels declining?

  It’s normal for testosterone levels to decrease with age or with the use of certain medications like corticosteroids or opiate pain medication. If you’re worried about your hormone levels, this test can help evaluate if symptoms such as changes in sex drive (libido), less energy, or reduced muscle mass or strength are related to your total and free testosterone levels.

• What is the difference between total testosterone and free testosterone?

  Total testosterone and free testosterone tests are two different measurements of the male sex hormone testosterone found in the blood.   A total testosterone test is often ordered by health care providers as an initial evaluation for low testosterone and it can provide a broader picture of your hormone health. It measures the total testosterone in your blood, including the testosterone that’s both attached and not attached to proteins. A free testosterone test measures the “free” testosterone that’s not bound to proteins and can be used by the body.3   Our testosterone blood test measures total testosterone levels, which is a great starting point for assessing hormonal health. Our test does not measure free testosterone. Any abnormal results should be discussed with a health care provider to determine next steps.

• What will my results tell me about my testosterone levels?

  Our comprehensive testosterone blood test measures total testosterone, albumin and SHBG levels and calculates free testosterone to help assess and provide insights on hormonal health.    Albumin and SHBG are proteins associated with testosterone. Testosterone is more tightly bound to SHBG than albumin. Higher levels of SHBG may indicate lower levels of free testosterone that are available for your body’s use. Conversely, lower SHBG levels may result in higher free testosterone levels.   This test reports total testosterone levels up to 1500 ng/dL. If your level exceeds this, results will show “>1500 ng/dL,” instead of an exact value. In this case, free testosterone cannot be calculated accurately.   Any abnormal results or concerning symptoms should be followed up with your healthcare provider to determine next steps.

• How often should I test my testosterone levels?

  The frequency of testing depends on your health status and if you are experiencing symptoms associated with low or high testosterone. Your provider may recommend repeat testing or additional tests to learn more about what may be causing your symptoms and/or the change in your testosterone level.   Any abnormal results or concerning symptoms should be followed up with your healthcare provider to determine next steps.

• What are signs of low testosterone levels?

  Low testosterone (Low T) is more common than high testosterone in men. Low testosterone levels can lead to a variety of symptoms which can vary from person to person. If you are experiencing low T levels, you may notice:   Reduced sex drive and/or erectile dysfunction Low sperm counts and potential male infertility Increased body fat, often including breast enlargement Decrease in testicle size Loss of muscle mass and strength Decreased endurance Depressed mood Difficulty concentrating Reduced bone density   These symptoms could also be caused by other conditions. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider if you have any questions about your results or symptoms.

• What are the normal testosterone ranges by age?

  Normal testosterone levels vary throughout the day, from person to person and throughout life.    Learn more by reading our blog post about why testosterone levels change with age.      Consult with your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns about the results of your testosterone levels blood test.

• How can I increase my testosterone levels naturally?

  Some healthy habits that can help support your testosterone levels include:   Exercising regularlyEating a healthy well-balanced dietMaintaining a healthy weightLimiting stressOptimizing sleep qualityAvoiding excessive alcohol and drug use   Consult with your healthcare provider to discuss the results of your testosterone levels blood test and next steps.

• How accurate is this testing?

  Your testing will be performed in a CLIA-certified clinical laboratory. Labcorp provides leading-edge medical laboratory tests and services through a national network of primary clinical laboratories and specialty testing laboratories. Our labs perform regular quality assurance testing to ensure our results are accurate.

• Are my test results private and confidential?

  Your results will be provided to you through our secure online portal to view or print. Results are also made available through a secure portal to the independent healthcare provider who placed your test order.  If you are accessing your results through your Labcorp Patient™ account, all users linked to the account will have access to all OnDemand test results. Results may also be provided to a local, state, and/or federal health authority; for example, many states require the testing laboratory and physician to report test results for certain communicable diseases, such as COVID-19, to local or state health departments.   If you have questions or comments regarding the Labcorp Notice of Privacy Practices, or have a complaint about our use or disclosure of your PHI or our privacy practices, please contact: privacyofficer@labcorp.com, call us at (877) 234-4722 (877-23-HIPAA) and ask for the Labcorp HIPAA Privacy Officer, or send a written request to: HIPAA Privacy Officer, Labcorp, 531 South Spring Street, Burlington, NC 27215. You also may file a complaint with the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.