Hormone markers explained
One guide per marker: what the test measures, who might consider it, how to prepare and what a result can’t tell you.
How much testosterone is usable?
- SHBG testAn SHBG test shows how much testosterone is held by a binding protein. Learn when it helps, how to prepare and what a result can and can't tell you.
- What is SHBG?SHBG is a protein made mostly in the liver that carries testosterone and estrogen in the blood. Here is what it does and why it matters for your testosterone.
- High SHBGA high SHBG result means less testosterone may be free for your body to use. See what has been linked to it, what it can't tell you and when to see a clinician.
Why might testosterone be low?
- LH and FSH in menLH and FSH help show whether low testosterone starts in the testicles or the pituitary. See who is tested, how to prepare and what results can't tell you.
- Prolactin test for menProlactin is checked in men with low sex drive, erectile problems or low testosterone. See how to prepare and what a result can and can't tell you.
Other hormones
- Estradiol in menMen make a small amount of estradiol. See why it is tested, why the lab method matters at low levels and what a result can and can't tell you.
- DHT testDHT is a stronger form of testosterone made in the body. See what a DHT blood test measures, who might consider it and why a result has limits.
- DHEA and DHEA-S testsDHEA and DHEA-S are two separate blood tests. Learn what each measures, who might consider one, how to prepare and what a result can and can't tell you.
- IGF-1 testAn IGF-1 test tracks growth hormone activity, not testosterone. See who is usually tested, how to prepare and what a result can and can't tell you.
- What is IGF-1?IGF-1 is a hormone that carries out many of growth hormone's effects. Here is what it does, why it is measured, and what high or low levels can mean.