Skip to content

Testosterone, Serum

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

This test measures the amount of testosterone, a key hormone in men and women, in your blood serum. Testosterone helps regulate energy, muscle mass, and sexual function.

Quick summary

["Testosterone levels can affect mood, strength, and fertility, and may be checked for hormonal imbalances or conditions like low testosterone."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
27306-0
Short code
Testost Sal Ql
Synonyms
Testost Sal Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 Might This Test Be Ordered?

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like low energy, reduced sex drive, or changes in body hair. It could also be part of evaluations for infertility, menstrual issues, or hormone-related conditions in both men and women.

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 draw if your lab uses a specific method. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to rest afterward, as drawing blood can make you lightheaded.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will insert a needle into a vein in your arm to collect a small sample of blood. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. The process takes about 15 minutes total, and you may feel a brief pinch or discomfort.

What Are the Possible Results?

Results are expressed in a standardized unit (typically nanograms per deciliter, ng/dL, or picograms per milliliter, pg/mL) and compared to reference ranges that vary by age, sex, and health status. Your provider will interpret these results in the context of your overall health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Testosterone

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health needs. For routine checks, your doctor may recommend it every few years or as needed. If you have a known hormonal condition, testing might be more frequent, such as annually or every few months.
Can lifestyle changes affect testosterone levels?
Yes, diet, exercise, stress levels, and sleep can influence testosterone. Maintaining a balanced diet, regular physical activity, managing stress, and getting enough sleep may help support healthy hormone levels.
What if my results are outside the normal range?
If your results are outside the expected range, your healthcare provider will review them with you and may recommend additional tests or treatments. They’ll also consider other factors like symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle to guide next steps.
  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