Testosterone (total) blood test
Quick answer: A total testosterone test measures testosterone, the main male hormone, which women also make in smaller amounts. In men it is ordered for low sex drive, erection problems or low sperm count; in women, for excess hair growth, acne or irregular periods that suggest PCOS.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testA morning sample is usually preferred, as levels are highest early in the day.
- In fertility careIt helps assess male fertility problems and is one of the tests used to check for raised androgens in women with suspected PCOS.
How the test is done
- 1You come in the morning, ideally before about 10 or 11 am
- 2Staff may ask about your symptoms and any hormone medicines
- 3Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm
- 4A repeat morning sample may be arranged if the result is low
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Levels vary with time of day, age and sex, and low results in men are usually repeated; discuss them with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
In women, a high level can be seen with PCOS, some medicines and, rarely, hormone-producing tumours. In men, a low level can be seen with ageing, excess weight, illness, pituitary problems or testicular problems, and a high level can be seen with testosterone or steroid use.
Who usually has this test
Men with low sex drive, erection problems or low sperm count, and women with excess hair growth, acne or irregular periods.
Risks and aftercare
You can go to work as usual, and a repeat morning sample may be booked if needed.
Names and options
Also called: total testosterone, serum testosterone, T level
Listed by the hospital as
- TESTOSTERONE TOTAL, SERUM
Questions about this test
What time should a testosterone test be done?
For men, the test is usually done in the morning, ideally before about 10 or 11 am, because testosterone is highest then. A low result is normally repeated on another morning before any conclusion.
Does taking testosterone help male fertility?
No. Testosterone tablets, gels or injections can lower sperm production. If you are trying to conceive, talk to your doctor before using any testosterone product.
What is the difference between total and free testosterone?
Total testosterone includes hormone bound to proteins such as SHBG and the small free part. Free testosterone is the active part and is often estimated using total testosterone and SHBG.
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.