Whats the Difference Between Total and Free Testosterone?

Testosterone Therapy: What Men Need to Know About Low T and TRT Treatment Los Angeles Times

Testosterone is converted into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the prostate, which can stimulate the growth of prostate cells. Excessive DHT production has been implicated in the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. BPH can cause urinary symptoms, such as frequent urination, difficulty starting or stopping urination, and weak urine flow.

It’s critical to test both free testosterone levels and total T, along with other biomarkers like SHBG and estrogen. For example, if your total T levels are normal, research finds that symptoms of low testosterone can still exist. Total Testosterone levels, and in turn, free testosterone levels (3), start to decrease around age 30 by about 1 percent every year.

This can be seen in older age, where SHBG levels often increase considerably [1]. In women, levels of testosterone are around ten times lower than men, and the majority is bound to the protein, SHBG (about 80%). As such, free androgen index (FAI) is a better measure than free testosterone. It’s the ratio of total testosterone to SHBG and is useful for detecting raised androgens (male hormones), as is seen in conditions like polycycstic ovary syndrome (PCOS). With a comprehensive approach that combines lifestyle interventions and medical guidance, individuals can effectively manage testosterone levels and promote overall health and well-being.” Understanding this age-related decline in testosterone levels is crucial for individuals to proactively address potential symptoms or concerns related to hormonal changes during this phase of life.

This test measures the amount of unattached, or “free,” testosterone in your blood. So if you just focus on your free testosterone numbers, you’re discounting the vast majority of the testosterone in your body. An increase in the Human Growth Hormone (HGH) concentration directly causes an increase in testosterone secretion [16]. Testosterone deficiency has been detected in 10% – 40% of adult males globally, with age being the most reliable indicator. Hone-affiliated medical practices are independently owned and operated by licensed physicians who provide services using the Hone telehealth platform. For more information about the relationship between Hone and the medical practices, click here.

You appear to have higher than normal testosterone levels, please contact us for further investigation. Normally, it is first suggested to try natural means to boost your testosterone levels. If your test results show that you have low or high testosterone levels, then another test might be performed to confirm the issue. The need to repeat the test occurs because testosterone levels can fluctuate from day to day due to multiple reasons like medication, etc. In men, testosterone is produced by testicles, while in women, it is produced by ovaries.

A retrospective cohort study from the U.S. showed that testosterone replacement in men with hypogonadism significantly increased the risk of urolithiasis [25]. In another retrospective case‒control study from Taiwan, androgen deprivation in prostate cancer patients reduced the subsequent development of kidney stones [26]. These two retrospective studies suggest that testosterone might induce urinary stones. However, these results are limited because the data are derived from military service members and individuals with pathological conditions such as prostate cancer. Therefore, these retrospective results might lack some degree of generalizability beyond former service members and patients with prostate cancer. Some research suggests a potential link between higher exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and lower testosterone levels, says Houman. This is likely because they can disrupt both endocrine function and healthy metabolism.

Recognizing these causes is crucial in the diagnosis and treatment of low or high testosterone levels. It underscores the importance of a holistic approach to health, considering not just medical treatments but also lifestyle modifications to manage and maintain optimal testosterone levels. As we proceed to explore the symptoms and effects of testosterone imbalance, the interconnected nature of this hormone with various aspects of health becomes even more evident. The balance between free and total testosterone is crucial for several reasons. For example, a person can have normal total testosterone levels but still experience symptoms of testosterone deficiency if their free testosterone levels are low. This scenario can occur in cases where there is an increase in SHBG, which hormone stimulates leydig cells to secrete testosterone? binds more testosterone, reducing the amount of free, active hormone. Low testosterone levels (hypogonadism) can have significant health implications.

When levels of free testosterone are low, it can be more difficult to achieve and sustain an erection, leading to issues with sexual performance. When natural means fail to increase your low testosterone levels, then it is best to try other treatments like testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). These tests are simple blood tests where blood is drawn from your vein and stored in a tube that is sent to the laboratory for testing. Testosterone tests are performed in the morning because you have the highest testosterone levels at that time. If you are experiencing such symptoms, then it is important to get your testosterone levels checked and talk to your doctor to identify what is causing these issues. Therefore, the sooner you get its treatment, the better it is for your health and life. Treatment strategies for testosterone imbalances, as we discussed, range from hormone replacement therapies to lifestyle modifications.

In conclusion, high free testosterone levels can have significant health risks for both men and women. These risks include cardiovascular problems, prostate enlargement in men, and disruptions to reproductive and menstrual health in women. It is important to maintain testosterone levels within a healthy range to avoid these complications.