Why Blood Testing Is Important
Accurate blood testing is essential when assessing testosterone levels and diagnosing testosterone deficiency. Symptoms such as fatigue, reduced libido, or low mood can have many different causes. Blood tests allow hormone levels to be measured objectively and help determine whether low testosterone may be contributing to these symptoms. At Heman Health, laboratory blood testing forms an essential part of the diagnostic process before any treatment is considered.
How Testosterone Is Diagnosed
A diagnosis of testosterone deficiency requires both:
- Symptoms consistent with low testosterone
- Laboratory blood tests confirming reduced testosterone levels
Blood testing allows clinicians to measure testosterone and other hormones involved in hormone regulation. Additional tests are also used to ensure testosterone therapy can be prescribed safely.
Hormone Markers Tested
Blood tests may include measurement of several important hormones.
Total Testosterone
This measures the overall amount of testosterone circulating in the bloodstream. Low levels may be associated with symptoms such as fatigue, reduced libido and reduced muscle mass.
SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)
SHBG is a protein that binds testosterone in the blood. Measuring SHBG helps determine how much testosterone is biologically available to the body.
Free Testosterone
Free testosterone represents the portion of testosterone that is available to tissues and cells. It is often considered a more accurate reflection of hormonal activity.
LH and FSH
Luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) help regulate testosterone production. These hormones can provide useful information about the underlying cause of testosterone deficiency.
Prolactin
Elevated prolactin levels may interfere with testosterone production and can occasionally indicate other underlying conditions.
Health Markers Tested
Before starting testosterone therapy, additional blood tests are used to assess overall health and ensure treatment is safe.
Full Blood Count (FBC)
This test evaluates red and white blood cells and haemoglobin levels. It is important because testosterone therapy can influence red blood cell production.
Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA)
PSA is a marker used to assess prostate health. Monitoring PSA is recommended before and during testosterone therapy.
Liver Function Tests (LFT)
These tests assess liver health and ensure the body can metabolise hormones normally.
Lipid Profile
This test measures cholesterol levels and helps assess cardiovascular health.
Home and Clinic Blood Testing
Heman Health offers two ways to begin hormone testing.
Home Testosterone Test
Patients can begin with a finger-prick blood test performed at home. The sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis and results are reviewed securely online. If results suggest low testosterone, patients may be invited to attend the clinic for further assessment.
Clinic Hormone Assessment
Patients may also attend the clinic for a comprehensive hormone assessment. This includes venous blood testing performed in clinic and laboratory analysis of hormone and health markers.
Why Proper Testing Matters
Testosterone therapy should only be prescribed following appropriate medical evaluation.
Structured blood testing ensures that:
- Testosterone deficiency is accurately diagnosed
- Treatment is appropriate
- Therapy can be monitored safely over time
At Heman Health, laboratory testing and clinical assessment form the foundation of safe and effective treatment.
Start Your Assessment
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to low testosterone, the first step is to complete a short assessment.
This takes approximately two minutes and helps determine whether further testing or consultation may be beneficial.
In-clinic and online consultations