Test library
Total and Free Testosterone Panel
The free and total testosterone test measures both the bound and unbound forms of testosterone in the blood. It is used to evaluate low testosterone or infertility in men and women and gives a fuller picture than either measure alone.
Order Testosterone Free & Total Testing
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Testosterone Free & Total Testing- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $198
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The free and total testosterone test measures two forms of the hormone from one blood sample. Total testosterone counts everything in the blood, while free testosterone counts only the unbound portion that tissues can use. Ordering both gives a more complete view when a hormone imbalance is suspected, and results are interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider.
What this test measures
Testosterone circulates mostly bound to proteins, with a small free fraction. Total testosterone captures the full amount, while free testosterone isolates the active portion. Because binding proteins can shift independently of total levels, measuring both helps explain situations where a total result looks normal but symptoms suggest otherwise.
The test uses a single blood sample, typically drawn in the morning. The laboratory reports a total testosterone level and a free testosterone level, along with reference ranges that vary by age and sex. Related markers such as sex hormone-binding globulin may be added to help interpret the free value.
Clinicians order the combined test for symptoms of low or high testosterone, for fertility evaluation, and for monitoring a known hormone condition. It is a laboratory tool, not a diagnosis. A qualified healthcare provider combines the numbers with symptoms, examination, and sometimes further testing.
- Total testosterone
- Free testosterone
- Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)
- Albumin
- Luteinizing hormone (LH)
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
- Estradiol
- Prolactin
- Bioavailable testosterone (calculated when ordered)
Why people order this test
- Evaluate symptoms of low testosterone in men or women
- Assess infertility or reproductive concerns
- Investigate signs of hormone excess
- Get a fuller picture than a single testosterone measure
- Monitor a known hormone condition or treatment
- Follow up on an unclear total testosterone result
How to prepare
Collection is usually done in the morning, when testosterone is at its highest. Fasting may be requested if the test is bundled with other panels. Follow the timing instructions provided by the laboratory.
Understanding your results
Results are typically available within one to three business days. The report lists both free and total testosterone with reference ranges by age and sex. A qualified healthcare provider interprets the values together with symptoms and any related tests.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between free and total testosterone?
Total testosterone measures all the hormone in the blood, bound and unbound. Free testosterone measures only the unbound portion that tissues can use.
Why order both at once?
Measuring both can clarify hormone activity when binding proteins are abnormal or when a total result does not match symptoms.
Who might need this test?
It may be ordered for men or women with symptoms of low or high testosterone, fertility concerns, or a known hormone condition.
When should the sample be collected?
Because levels change during the day, collection is usually done in the morning when testosterone is highest.
Does the test require fasting?
Fasting is not always required, but it may be requested when the test is combined with other panels. Follow the laboratory's instructions.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
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Every page on this site is reviewed for clarity, sourcing, and accuracy. We update our library as testing options, collection networks, and accreditation standards change.