Male Hormone Testing

If your hormones are out of balance, you can develop a variety of symptoms, some of which can be serious. Male hormone testing can be a helpful tool in identifying the cause of these symptoms.

You may need to undergo hormone testing if you are experiencing any of the following: 

• fatigue and low energy levels
• sleep problems
• reduced libido (sex drive) and erectile dysfunction
• unexplained weight gain or loss
• mood changes including anxiety, depression and/or mood swings
• breast problems, such as swollen breast tissue (gynaecomastia) or tender breasts
• loss of bone and/or muscle mass 
• increased body fat
• hair thinning or loss on the body and face
• hot flashes
• trouble conceiving 

Conditions and health problems that male hormone testing can help diagnose include:

• testosterone deficiency, which can affect sexual function, energy and mood
• thyroid disorders, which impact metabolism, weight and mental clarity
• pituitary gland disorders, which can affect hormone regulation
• infertility or low sperm count, often related to low FSH or LH
• adrenal dysfunction, such as high or low cortisol levels
• underlying conditions such as tumours or diabetes

At Welbeck, male hormone testing assesses the levels of the following key hormones:

• testosterone – the primary male sex hormone which affects bone and muscle mass, libido, fat distribution, mood and the production of red blood cells and sperm. Low levels can result in reduced sex drive, changes in body shape, fatigue and low mood

• free testosterone – the active form of testosterone available for use by the body

• oestradiol – the strongest of the 3 oestrogens, this hormone is responsible for male sexual function and plays a key role in bone health. High levels can contribute to fertility problems, gynecomastia and erectile dysfunction

• DHEA-S (dehydroepiandrosterone) – this hormone is produced by the adrenal glands and is responsible for male characteristics. Low levels can be responsible for low libido and erectile dysfunction

• SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin) – this hormone regulates free testosterone availability, with high levels resulting in lower levels of free testosterone

• LH (luteinising hormone) – produced by the pituitary gland, LH stimulates the production of testosterone. Low levels can result in decreased testosterone production, which can lead to reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, infertility and loss of muscle mass

• FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) – also produced in the pituitary gland, FSH plays an important role in the production and maturation of sperm. Low levels can indicate problems with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus, which can lead to decreased sperm production and infertility

• prolactin – this hormone is best known for its role in milk production in women. In men, high levels can lead to erectile dysfunction, reduced libido and breast enlargement (gynecomastia), and may indicate pituitary gland disorders

• cortisol – this stress hormone, is involved in the fight-or-flight responses. Long-term imbalances in cortisol can cause high blood sugar, high blood pressure, fatigue and anxiety, and is linked to adrenal health problems
  

Before the test

Male hormones are assessed with a simple blood draw. 

Before having your hormone levels tested, you will have a consultation with a Welbeck specialist. They will ask you about your symptoms and may do a physical examination. 

To acquire the most accurate results, you may be required to fast before your test, and morning testing is often recommended as testosterone levels peak early in the day.

Certain medications or supplements may affect the results, so you should discuss these with your consultant beforehand.

During the test

The test itself is very straightforward and takes just a few minutes. It requires collecting a sample of blood, usually from a vein in your arm, that will be sent for testing in a lab. You’ll feel a small scratch as the needle is inserted, but overall, the procedure causes minimal discomfort.

After the test

Once your blood has been collected, it will be sent to a lab for testing. The results are usually available within a few days, and you will be invited back to Welbeck for a follow-up consultation, where your consultant will deliver your results and discuss the findings and potential treatment options.

Hormone levels naturally fluctuate as you age and can be influenced by a number of factors, including your lifestyle, stress levels and medical conditions. Your test results will be reviewed with these in mind and your consultant will advise you as to the best next steps. 

If you’re experiencing symptoms, but your hormone levels as normal, this suggests your symptoms may be due to other causes. If your levels are abnormal, this may point to specific conditions. 

Depending on your results, next steps may include:

• lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise or stress management

• further diagnostic testing

• medications or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as appropriate

• treatment of underlying conditions, such as diabetes

• other medical treatments to treat the condition and alleviate symptoms 

At Welbeck’s Men’s Health Clinic, we provide access to specialist consultants in endocrinology, andrology, urology and fertility. Our consultants are experienced in hormone testing and treatment and are dedicated to providing world-class, personalised care.

With access to colleagues across other specialities, our Men’s Health consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem to ensure you receive the best possible treatment as quickly as possible, all under one roof.

All appointments, testing, treatment and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling our delivery of accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.

Get in touch today to book an appointment.

What is the best time to take a male hormone test?

Morning blood draws are usually recommended, as testosterone levels are highest at this time, which can help ensure accurate results.

Do I need to fast before a male hormone test?

Some hormone tests require fasting, especially if your consultant is assessing your insulin or glucose levels alongside your hormones. Your consultant will advise you of any preparation requirements before your test. 

How long does it take to get male hormone test results?

Results are usually available within a few days, depending on the specific tests performed.

What can affect my hormone test results?

Factors like stress, diet, medications, sleep and exercise can all influence hormone levels.

What happens if my hormone levels are abnormal?

Your consultant will discuss treatment options with you, which may include lifestyle changes, medication, and hormone replacement therapy.