Testosterone Panel

This panel provides a detailed assessment of testosterone and related hormones in the body. Rather than measuring testosterone alone, it looks at how much is present, how much is actually active and available, and the hormonal signals that control its production. This gives a fuller and more accurate picture of your androgen (male hormone) status, useful in both men and women.

Testosterone and its availability

• Testosterone (total): the overall level of testosterone in your blood
• SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin): a protein that binds testosterone. Much of your testosterone is bound to it and inactive, so measuring SHBG helps show how much is truly available
• Free androgen index (FAI): a calculated measure that uses testosterone and SHBG together to indicate how much active testosterone is available, often more informative than the total level alone

Hormonal control

• LH and FSH: hormones from the pituitary gland that signal the body to produce testosterone and support reproductive function. Their pattern helps show whether a hormonal issue originates in the testes or ovaries, or in the signals from the brain that control them
• DHEA-S: an androgen produced almost entirely by the adrenal glands, which helps identify whether raised androgens are coming from an adrenal source

What it can help assess

• In men: investigating symptoms of low testosterone, such as low energy, reduced libido, or erectile difficulties
• In women: investigating signs of raised androgens, such as excess hair growth, acne, or irregular periods, and conditions such as PCOS
• Understanding the source of a hormonal imbalance, by showing whether it is likely to be from the ovaries or testes, or the adrenal glands

An important note on interpretation

These hormones are best understood together and alongside your symptoms. Testosterone is highest in the morning, so a morning sample is important for a reliable result, and in women, timing within the menstrual cycle can also matter. Any abnormal result should be discussed with your GP or a specialist, who can interpret it in context and advise on any further testing needed.

Why it matters

Testosterone and related androgens play an important role in energy, mood, libido, and reproductive health in both men and women. By assessing not just the total level but how much is active and where it is coming from, this panel gives a clearer picture of your hormonal health and helps guide the investigation of a range of symptoms.

• Testosterone (total)
• Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG)
• Free androgen index (FAI, calculated)
• Luteinising hormone (LH)
• Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
• DHEA-sulphate (DHEA-S)

No special preparation required.

For blood tests, we recommend drinking plenty of water beforehand to ensure smooth sample collection. If you are taking any regular medication, continue to do so unless advised otherwise by your doctor.