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Testosterone, Total (Serum)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of total testosterone, a key male sex hormone, in your blood. It helps assess hormone balance, fertility, and potential conditions like low testosterone or hormonal imbalances.

Quick summary

["Your total testosterone levels can indicate whether your hormone levels are within a healthy range for your gender and age."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
107501-9
Short code
Testost 4h p chal SerPl LC/MS/MS-mCnc
Synonyms
Testost 4h p chal SerPl LC/MS/MS-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
4.5
Ref high
12
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
lc-ms-ms
CPT
84436
SNOMED
302345006
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Doctors may order a total testosterone test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as low testosterone (hypogonadism), fertility issues, or hormonal disorders. It can also be part of a general health check or evaluation for symptoms like fatigue, low libido, or changes in body hair.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the blood draw if your doctor recommends it. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to rest after the test. Avoid smoking or strenuous activity right before the procedure.

What the Test Involves

A healthcare provider will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a brief pinch, but it’s usually over quickly. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to standard reference ranges for your age and sex. Low levels may suggest hormonal deficiencies, while very high levels could indicate conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or tumors. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.

Reference range

Adult: 4.5-12.0 μg/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

Take your thyroid medication after the blood draw if applicable. No fasting required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total testosterone

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health status. If you have a known hormone-related condition, your doctor may recommend testing every few months or annually. Otherwise, it’s often done only when symptoms or concerns arise.
What symptoms might indicate a need for this test?
Symptoms that could prompt a testosterone test include low energy, reduced sex drive, muscle loss, mood changes, or difficulty concentrating. Women with irregular periods or unusual hair growth might also need this test.
Does diet or exercise affect testosterone levels?
Yes. Healthy lifestyle choices—such as balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking—can support normal hormone levels. Stress, poor sleep, and excessive alcohol intake may lower testosterone, so managing these factors can be helpful.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy