Androstenedione blood test
Quick answer: This test measures androstenedione, a hormone made by the ovaries, testes and adrenal glands that the body turns into testosterone and oestrogen. Doctors order it to look into extra hair growth, irregular periods, PCOS or adrenal conditions.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testAn early-morning sample may be requested.
- In fertility careRaised androstenedione can be seen in PCOS, which can affect ovulation.
How the test is done
- 1You may be asked to come in the morning, early in your cycle
- 2The skin over a vein is cleaned
- 3A needle draws blood into a tube
- 4The lab measures androstenedione
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Hormone ranges differ between labs and by age, sex and cycle day, so discuss your result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A high level can be seen with PCOS, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or rarely a hormone-making tumour of the ovary or adrenal gland. A low level can be seen with adrenal or ovarian underactivity.
Who usually has this test
Women with extra hair growth, acne or irregular periods, and children with early or delayed puberty.
Risks and aftercare
A small bruise may appear where the needle went in.
Names and options
Also called: androstenedione, A4
Listed by the hospital as
- ANDROSTENIDIONE, SERUM
Questions about this test
How is androstenedione different from testosterone?
Androstenedione is a hormone the body turns into testosterone and oestrogen. It can be raised even when testosterone is normal.
Why is androstenedione checked with 17-OHP?
Both can rise in congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Checking them together helps doctors tell CAH from PCOS.
Does androstenedione change during the cycle?
It can vary a little through the cycle and the day. Your doctor may ask for a morning sample early in the cycle.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.