Testosterone Blood Test
Jan 30, 2026
Testosterone Blood Test
A testosterone blood test measures total and free testosterone in your blood—essential for diagnosing low testosterone (low T), which affects approximately 1 in 4 men over 30 and causes symptoms including fatigue, reduced libido, muscle loss, and mood changes. Peak testosterone occurs in the morning, so testing should be done before 10am for accurate results.
At Blood Test London, testosterone testing costs from £245 with results in 2-3 days.
What Does a Testosterone Test Measure?
Total Testosterone
All testosterone in your blood, including bound and unbound forms.
Age | Normal Range (nmol/L) |
|---|---|
20-30 | 10-30 |
30-40 | 8-25 |
40-50 | 7-23 |
50-60 | 6-21 |
60+ | 5-19 |
Free Testosterone
The "active" testosterone not bound to proteins—only 2-3% of total.
Normal range: 0.2-0.6 nmol/L (varies by lab)
SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)
Protein that binds testosterone, making it inactive.
High SHBG: Less free testosterone available
Low SHBG: More free testosterone available
Signs of Low Testosterone
Physical Symptoms
Fatigue and low energy
Reduced muscle mass and strength
Increased body fat (especially belly)
Decreased bone density
Hot flushes
Sexual Symptoms
Low libido (reduced sex drive)
Erectile dysfunction
Reduced morning erections
Fewer spontaneous erections
Mental and Emotional
Depression or low mood
Poor concentration and brain fog
Irritability
Reduced motivation
Sleep problems
Who Should Test?
Men over 30 with symptoms
Those with unexplained fatigue
Men experiencing sexual dysfunction
Anyone with mood or cognitive changes
Athletes monitoring hormone status
Understanding Your Results
Optimal vs "Normal"
Many men have technically "normal" testosterone that's suboptimal for their age and symptoms.
Level | Interpretation |
|---|---|
Below 8 nmol/L | Definitely low—treatment likely beneficial |
8-12 nmol/L | Borderline—consider symptoms and free T |
12-20 nmol/L | Normal but may be suboptimal for some |
20-30 nmol/L | Optimal range |
Above 30 nmol/L | High (check for causes if unexplained) |
The Complete Picture
Testosterone alone doesn't tell the whole story. Our comprehensive panel includes:
Total testosterone
Free testosterone
SHBG
FSH and LH (pituitary hormones)
Prolactin
Oestradiol (yes, men need some)
Book Comprehensive Male Hormone Panel
How to Optimise Testosterone Naturally
Sleep
7-9 hours nightly—testosterone produced during sleep
Poor sleep reduces testosterone by up to 15%
Exercise
Resistance training: Compound lifts boost testosterone
HIIT: Short, intense workouts effective
Avoid overtraining: Excessive exercise lowers testosterone
Nutrition
Factor | Action |
|---|---|
Healthy fats | Include olive oil, avocado, nuts |
Zinc | Oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds |
Vitamin D | Supplement if deficient |
Protein | Adequate but not excessive |
Reduce sugar | Spikes insulin, lowers testosterone |
Lifestyle
Maintain healthy weight: Obesity lowers testosterone
Limit alcohol: More than 2 drinks daily harmful
Reduce stress: Cortisol competes with testosterone
Avoid plastic: BPA mimics oestrogen
When Natural Isn't Enough
If testosterone remains low despite lifestyle optimisation, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be considered under medical supervision.
Our Testosterone Test Options
Basic Testosterone - £265
Total testosterone
Best for: Initial screening
Comprehensive Male Hormones - £345
Total and free testosterone
SHBG, FSH, LH, prolactin, oestradiol
Best for: Complete assessment
Men's Health MOT - £445
Full hormone panel plus
Thyroid, vitamins, liver, kidney, cholesterol
Best for: Complete health picture
Book Your Testosterone Test
Price: From £245
Results: 2-3 days
Doctor review: A doctor always reviews every result
Fasting required: No, but test before 10am for accuracy
FAQ
What time should I test testosterone?
Before 10am when levels are highest. This gives the most accurate picture.
How common is low testosterone?
Affects approximately 25% of men over 30, increasing with age.
Can lifestyle really improve testosterone?
Yes—sleep, exercise, and diet can significantly impact levels, sometimes by 20-30%.
Is testosterone replacement safe?
When properly monitored by a doctor, TRT is safe and effective for men with genuinely low testosterone.
How often should I test?
Annually for monitoring; every 6-8 weeks if on TRT; sooner if symptoms change.
Blood Test London by The Wellness. Testosterone testing from £245, results in 2-3 days.