Let's learn about testosterone. Why is this blood test done?

We often hear stories like 'hormonal imbalance'. In fact, these chemicals called hormones are very important for many functions in our body. One such main hormone is testosterone. Many people think that this is something that only applies to men, but in fact, it is also essential for women's bodies in small amounts. So, if your doctor asks you to take a blood test to check your testosterone levels, this article is simply to learn about it.

Simply put, what is this testosterone test?

It's very simple. A testosterone test involves taking a sample of your blood and measuring the amount of the hormone testosterone in it. This hormone is mainly produced in our sex organs. Specifically, in the testicles in men and the ovaries in women . Naturally, men have much higher levels of this hormone in their bodies.

For our bodies to function optimally, this testosterone hormone needs to be within a certain range. Too little or too much can cause various health problems. It is common for both men and women. So if you have any symptoms, your doctor may recommend this test to find out if the cause is a change in testosterone levels.

Are there types of this test?

Yes, there are two types of testosterone in your blood. To understand this, think of it this way. The testosterone in your blood is like passengers on a bus.

1. Bound Testosterone: Some passengers sit in their seats. They are bound to the proteins in their seats. They can't function as they should.

2. Free Testosterone: Other passengers are standing. It's easy for them to get off and do things wherever they want. It's this free testosterone that the body can use quickly.

So, blood tests can look at these two things:

• Total Testosterone: This measures the total amount of testosterone in your blood. That is, the sum of all the testosterone that is sitting in those seats (bound) and standing (free).
• Free Testosterone: This only measures the amount of free testosterone that the body can easily use. This test is very important for accurately diagnosing certain medical conditions.

At what point would a doctor tell you to do this test?

Usually, men and women who have reached puberty are referred for this test when they develop certain symptoms. Let's see what those are.

Why do children need this test?

Sometimes, if a child shows signs of precocious puberty or delayed puberty, the doctor may order this test. If testosterone levels are high, it can be a sign of early puberty. If levels are low, it can be a sign of delayed sexual development.

Do I need any special preparation before the test?

Typically, if you are asked to take a ``Total Testosterone'' test, you are more likely to be asked to do it in the morning , because testosterone levels are highest in the morning.

In some cases, you may be asked to fast (not eat or drink anything other than water) for a few hours before the test. However, if you have any special instructions, your doctor will let you know in advance. It is important to follow those instructions exactly.

What happens when a blood test is done?

Even if you're a little nervous about donating blood, it's a very simple and quick process. Here's what happens:

1. While you are sitting in a chair, someone in the lab (a nurse or technician) will look for an easy vein in your arm to draw blood from. This is usually the inside of your elbow.

2. Once the vein is found, the area is cleaned with a cotton swab and disinfected.

3. Then, a small needle is inserted into the vein and a blood sample is taken. At this time, you may feel a slight sting, like being bitten by an ant .

4. After inserting the needle, the required amount of blood is collected into a small tube.

5. Once the blood is drawn, the needle is removed and a piece of cotton is placed on the site and pressed to stop the bleeding.

6. Finally, a plaster is applied to the area. That's it, you're done!

The entire process takes less than five minutes . You can usually get the report within two to three days.

Is there any risk in this?

The most you can expect is a little bruising, blueness, or a little pain where the blood was drawn. That will go away completely in a day or two.

How do you understand what is in the report?

The report you receive will usually contain some information like this:

• The name of the test performed (e.g. Total Testosterone).
• Your result, that is, the value in your blood.
• The "Normal Range" for that test is the range of values ​​that a healthy person should normally have.
• A chart showing whether your result is normal, abnormal, low, or high.

There's something very important to remember here. This "normal range" can vary slightly from one lab to another. Also, these normal values ​​will vary depending on your age and gender.

What causes abnormal testosterone levels?

Let's look at some of the possible causes of low testosterone levels, and how they can be a sign of a medical condition. But remember, these are just possible causes. They don't mean you have the condition.

Should I be worried if a value in the report has changed?

Not necessarily. Just because a value on the report is outside the normal range does not mean that you have a serious illness. Many other things can affect your results.

For example:

• Some medications you take.
• Other medical conditions you already have.
• Sometimes there can be a slight error in testing the blood sample.

When your doctor reviews the report, he or she will consider your complete medical history, the medications you are taking, and your symptoms. Then, he or she will tell you whether further tests are needed.

What about home test kits?

There are now test kits on the market that claim to allow you to check your testosterone levels at home. However, there can be questions about their accuracy . Also, it is very dangerous to look at the report yourself and think that you have a disease.

If you have any concerns about your health or testosterone levels, the best thing to do is see a doctor . He or she can examine you, listen to your concerns, and, if necessary, refer you to a lab for specific testing.

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