Description
Low testosterone is over-diagnosed on symptoms alone and under-diagnosed on testing. Measuring it properly is what separates the two.
What this test measures
Total testosterone, SHBG, calculated free testosterone, FSH and LH.
Who it is for
- Low energy, low mood, or reduced motivation
- Reduced libido or erectile difficulty
- Loss of muscle mass or increased body fat despite unchanged habits
- Fertility questions
Preparing for your test
Sample between 7am and 10am. Testosterone follows a strong daily rhythm and peaks in the morning; an afternoon sample can read low in a man whose levels are entirely normal. This is the single most common reason a male hormone test has to be repeated.
Avoid heavy exercise for 24 hours beforehand, and do not sample during an acute illness.
Worth knowing
A diagnosis of low testosterone requires at least two low morning samples plus consistent symptoms. One low reading is a reason to look further, not a reason to start treatment.
What happens next
Once the laboratory reports, a GP registered with the Irish Medical Council reviews your result alongside the information you gave us and explains what it means in plain English. GP review is included in the price — we do not release raw numbers without interpretation.
Important limitations
This is a screening test, not a diagnosis. A result in range does not rule out every cause of a symptom, and a result out of range does not by itself confirm a condition. If you feel unwell, see a doctor in person regardless of what this test shows. This service is not for emergencies — call 112 or 999 if you are seriously unwell.
