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Testosterone, Total (Serum)

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

This test measures the total amount of testosterone, a key male sex hormone, in your blood. Testosterone plays a role in muscle and bone development, red blood cell production, and sexual function.

Quick summary

["Total testosterone helps assess hormone balance and potential issues related to low or high hormone levels."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
31030-0
Short code
Testost/Epitestost Ur
Synonyms
Testost/Epitestost Ur
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like low libido, fatigue, or changes in body hair. It could also be part of evaluations for infertility, menstrual irregularities, or conditions like hypogonadism (low testosterone) or Cushing’s syndrome (high testosterone).

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if your lab uses a specific method. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near the testing site for a short time.

How the Test Is Performed

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a brief pinch, but the procedure usually takes less than a minute. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to general reference ranges, but individual needs may vary. Low testosterone may suggest conditions like pituitary disorders or primary testicular failure, while very high levels could indicate tumors or other hormonal imbalances.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total testosterone

Frequently asked questions

What Does It Measure?
This test measures the total testosterone in your blood, including both free (active) and bound (inactive) forms. It provides an overall picture of your hormone levels but does not distinguish between free and bound testosterone alone.
How Might It Be Used?
Results help diagnose hormonal disorders, guide treatment for infertility or low energy, or monitor conditions like hypogonadism or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It may also be used to evaluate symptoms of hormonal imbalances in both men and women.
Could It Affect My Treatment?
Yes, if your levels are outside normal ranges, your doctor may recommend further testing (like free testosterone or SHBG levels) or treatments such as hormone therapy, lifestyle changes, or medications to address the underlying cause.
  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