SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin) test
Quick answer: An SHBG test measures a protein that carries testosterone and estrogen in the blood and affects how much is available to the body. It is ordered with testosterone to work out free testosterone, for example in suspected PCOS, excess hair growth or low testosterone in men.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careIt helps doctors assess androgen levels in women with suspected PCOS and testosterone levels in men with fertility problems.
How the test is done
- 1A morning sample is usually taken, often with testosterone
- 2A vein in your arm is cleaned
- 3Blood is drawn into a tube
- 4The lab uses SHBG and testosterone to estimate free testosterone
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal ranges differ between labs, so compare your result with the range printed on your report and discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A low SHBG can be seen with PCOS, excess weight, insulin resistance, diabetes and an underactive thyroid, and can leave more free testosterone active. A high SHBG can be seen with ageing in men, an overactive thyroid, liver disease, pregnancy and oestrogen-containing pills.
Who usually has this test
Women with suspected PCOS, excess hair growth or acne, and men with symptoms of low testosterone or fertility problems.
Risks and aftercare
Nothing special is needed after the blood test.
Names and options
Also called: SHBG, sex hormone binding globulin
Listed by the hospital as
- SHBG (SEXHORMONEBINDINGGLOBULIN), SERUM
Questions about this test
Why is SHBG tested with testosterone?
Most testosterone in the blood is bound to SHBG and is not active. Measuring SHBG helps doctors estimate free testosterone, which reflects how much hormone the body can use.
What does low SHBG mean in PCOS?
Low SHBG is common in PCOS and is linked with insulin resistance. It means more testosterone is free, which can worsen acne and hair growth.
Can birth control pills change SHBG?
Yes. Oestrogen-containing pills raise SHBG, which lowers free testosterone. Tell your doctor if you take hormonal medicines, as it affects how results are read.
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
Waiting area
IVF lab
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.