Free Testosterone Test Description

The Free Testosterone test measures the amount of testosterone in your blood that is not bound to proteins, often called “free” testosterone. This form is the biologically active hormone available to tissues, unlike total testosterone, which includes both bound and unbound forms. Free testosterone is crucial for assessing hormonal status because it reflects the hormone that can exert effects on the body, influencing muscle mass, bone density, libido, and fertility in both men and women.

Indications of the Test

This test is commonly ordered when:

Symptoms suggest low testosterone despite normal total testosterone levels (e.g., fatigue, low sex drive, erectile dysfunction)
There is suspicion of testosterone deficiency or excess
To clarify results when total testosterone levels are borderline or inconsistent with symptoms
To investigate causes of infertility or sexual dysfunction
To monitor testosterone replacement therapy effectiveness
To assess conditions affecting sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which can affect free testosterone availability.

Related Test: Total Testosterone

Patient Preparation/Instructions

No special preparation is generally required before the test. It is usually done via a blood sample taken from a vein. However, it is advisable to:

Inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking, as some can affect hormone levels
Follow any specific instructions given by your healthcare provider or the laboratory, such as fasting if requested
Schedule the test preferably in the morning when testosterone levels are highest.

Typical Reference Values

Reference ranges can vary by laboratory and method, but typical free testosterone levels are:

Group	Free Testosterone (nmol/L)	Free Testosterone (pg/mL)
Men (general adult)	0.2 – 0.62 nmol/L	66 – 309 pg/mL (varies by age)
Men (age 19-39)	Higher end of range	120 – 368 pg/mL
Women	0.001 – 0.02 nmol/L	Much lower than men

Note: Values are approximate and depend on the assay used. Levels decline with age and can be influenced by body mass index and SHBG levels16.

Time It Takes to Get Report

Results typically take 2-4hours after the blood sample is collected, depending on the laboratory’s work loads.

How to Order the Test

To order a Free Testosterone test via Labtestzote in Nairobi, Kenya:

Visit the Labtestzote website and navigate to the “Laboratory Tests” section.
Search for “Free Testosterone” test.
Select the test and complete the online order form with your details.
Choose a convenient Labtestzote partner laboratory location in Nairobi for sample collection.
Visit the selected lab for your blood draw at the scheduled time.
After processing, receive your test report online through your Labtestzote account or via email.

Labtestzote offers a user-friendly platform serving Nairobi and across Kenya, making it easy to access reliable medical testing with prompt results.

External link:
MedlinePlus – Testosterone Levels Test

Internal links:
Laboratory Tests
How Online Tests Work

Free Testosterone Test