01 Jan What Does a Male Hormone Test Include?

Male hormone testing measures the levels of male hormones in the blood. Monitoring hormones is essential because imbalances can be related to some diseases, such as prostate cancer or erectile dysfunction. In this article, we’ll cover what to expect from hormone tests and when you should get them done.

Understanding male hormone tests

Male and Female refers to sex as determined by your chromosomes. If you’re born with XY chromosomes, you’re considered male; if you’re born with XX chromosomes, then you’re female. Your gender identity doesn’t necessarily need to match your biological sex.

Male hormone tests measure the levels of hormones in the body. They most commonly check testosterone levels, but they may also measure other hormones depending on the age and health status of the patient. The results of these tests can be used to detect and diagnose many conditions.

Your healthcare provider will likely request that you provide blood or urine samples for a male hormone test. Depending on your age and health history, your doctor may recommend additional testing. Hormone imbalances may require estradiol or prolactin tests to diagnose different conditions.

How does a testosterone test for males work?

Testosterone is an important hormone that plays many roles in men’s bodies.

Symptoms of testosterone imbalance can include:

• Fatigue
• Erectile dysfunction
• Decreased sex drive
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sleep problems

• Mood swings
• Decreased muscle mass and strength
• Decreased bone mineral density
• An increased risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease

However, patients with normal total testosterone levels may still have symptoms due to elevated free testosterone levels.

A testosterone test measures the amount of testosterone in the body and looks for low, normal, or high levels of this hormone. The results may be used to determine any issues with the testes, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus gland.

How can you get a male hormone test?

A men’s hormone test or a testosterone test can be either blood or urine-based. There are several ways to get tested.

The most common is to visit a clinic or doctor’s office. However, private healthcare providers have recently started offering hormone testing at home.

In-home testing is convenient because you don’t need to worry about transit to or from a clinic. You can also discuss your test results and next steps with a healthcare professional via telemedicine.

Another method to check your testosterone levels is through DIY kits; however, there is little you can do with these results, as a doctor will likely require a professionally-administered test to make a diagnosis and treatment plan.

Concierge doctors are the best of both worlds, providing at-home convenience while still having results interpreted by a medical professional that can prescribe further treatment.

What treatments are available for testosterone imbalance?

Many treatments are available for low testosterone, including prescription medications and natural supplements. If you have symptoms of low testosterone, it’s best to see your doctor to discuss which treatment option would be best for you.

Treatments can include lifestyle changes such as losing weight if overweight or obese, smoking cessation if applicable, reducing stress levels, and increasing exercise.

Prescription drugs that can help with testosterone levels include:

• Anastrozole (Arimidex)
• Buserelin (Suprefact)
• Clomiphene citrate (Clomid)

• Danazol (Danocrine)
• Dutasteride (Avodart)
• Finasteride (Proscar)

Your doctor may also recommend that you get Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), a hormone treatment that comes as a gel, injection, or patch.

If testosterone problems are left untreated, the condition could lead to erectile dysfunction, depression, infertility, and bone loss.

If you’re concerned about having a hormonal balance, schedule a consultation with your physician so they can order the most accurate type of hormone test for your needs.

Final Thoughts

Male hormones are essential for many body functions and also impact sexual health. You can get a blood or urine test to determine if you have abnormally high or low testosterone levels.

Following a test, you may be encouraged to make lifestyle changes, such as eating better and exercising regularly to help restore normal testosterone levels. Doctors may also prescribe medications to help alleviate symptoms and help you feel your best.

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