How to monitor testosterone levels?

Monitor testosterone levels is essential for the health of both men and women, especially if there are some symptoms associated with hormone imbalance or if testosterone replacement therapy is ongoing. The monitoring of testosterone levels can help people identify potential health problems in a timely manner, optimize treatment results, and maintain the overall health of the body.

Methods to monitor testosterone 

There are a variety of ways to monitor testosterone levels, including blood tests, saliva tests and urine tests. The advantages and disadvantages of different methods vary, and it is usually necessary to choose the appropriate method under the guidance of a doctor.

Blood tests are the most commonly used and reliable method of testosterone monitoring. It can provide two important kinds of information:

• Total testosterone: The sum of all testosterone in the blood, including the parts bound to proteins and the free testosterone.
• Free testosterone: Testosterone that is not bound to proteins, which can act directly on cells in the body and is therefore more biologically active.

Usually, doctors will recommend blood tests in the morning to get more accurate results. If the test results are abnormal, repeat testing can be arranged or further examination can be done.

Other methods include saliva testing and urine testing. Saliva test can reflect free testosterone levels, but the accuracy is low, and urine test can monitor testosterone fluctuations throughout the day, suitable for understanding hormone trends.

Suitable people

Regular monitoring of testosterone levels is generally recommended for the following populations:

Male testosterone deficiency

Testosterone deficiency can cause fatigue, decreased libido, low mood, muscle loss and other symptoms. For men suspected of having a testosterone deficiency, testing for testosterone levels is the first step in diagnosis. In general, the doctor will determine whether testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is necessary based on the test results.

Hormonal imbalance in women

Too low or too high testosterone levels in women can cause mood swings, decreased energy, decreased bone density, and increased body fat. If a woman has these symptoms, especially infertility, menstrual irregularities and other conditions, you can consider testing testosterone levels.

People using hormone replacement therapy

Whether it is testosterone replacement therapy or some other form of hormone replacement therapy, people receiving treatment need to regularly monitor their testosterone levels to ensure efficacy and avoid the adverse effects of having too high or too low levels of the hormone.

Muscle growth or athletes

Some athletes and bodybuilders may use supplements to boost testosterone levels. Although the use of supplements or steroids is not recommended in non-medical situations, if it is already being used, regular testing of testosterone levels is essential to detect potential health problems early on.

Precautions before monitoring

In order to obtain accurate testosterone test results, it is necessary to maintain the following points when sampling:

• Time: Sample between 7-10am to reflect peak values.
• Fasting state: Avoid food affecting hormone levels.
• Avoid strenuous exercise: Avoid strenuous activity the day before the test to prevent a temporary increase in testosterone.

Interpret the results of testosterone levels

Normal range of testosterone levels

There are significant differences in testosterone levels by age and gender. The following are general reference ranges, but should be evaluated according to specific detection methods and individual differences:

• For men: about 300-1,000 ng/dL (nanograms per deciliter)
• For women: about 15-70 ng/dL

The results of the testosterone level test usually show specific values of total and free testosterone. For the general population, testosterone deficiency may be diagnosed if the total testosterone is less than 300 ng/dL, but specific criteria and treatment options need to be individually evaluated.

High testosterone levels

High testosterone levels can be caused by endocrine tumors, polycystic ovary syndrome (in women), anabolic steroid use, and more. If an abnormally high level of testosterone is found, the doctor will usually recommend further testing to determine the cause.

Low testosterone levels

Low testosterone levels are more common in testosterone deficiency, aging, or certain chronic diseases. If testosterone deficiency is diagnosed, the doctor may recommend testosterone replacement therapy, but the potential risks and benefits of treatment must be weighed.

The monitoring of testosterone levels is important for maintaining health, diagnosing disease and guiding treatment. Regular monitoring can not only help people detect hormonal abnormalities early, it can also provide doctors with the necessary information to take appropriate treatment or adjustment programs.