Understanding total testosterone vs free testosterone

Understanding total testosterone vs free testosterone

% Free Testosterone is a vital biomarker used to evaluate hormonal health, particularly in men, but also in women. This “free” testosterone is biologically active, meaning it is available to interact with cells and exert effects on the body, such as influencing muscle growth, fat distribution, mood, and sexual function. The study found that testosterone levels naturally decline with age, with an average decrease of approximately 1-2% per year. In older adulthood, expected testosterone levels generally range from 200 to 900 ng/dL. This age-related decline in testosterone can have various effects on individuals, including changes in muscle mass, bone density, and sexual function.

A smaller amount of the hormone is also lightly bound to a protein called albumin. Free T is the type of T your body uses, and knowing your free testosterone levels is an important marker of good health. If your free testosterone levels are too low, testosterone replacement therapy may be needed.

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The following table illustrates the range of normal “free” testosterone for men and women by age. The molecules of free testosterone can be immediately used by your body because they can simply enter the cells unimpeded by being unattached to SHBG or albumin. That’s why high T-levels in women are considered to be more dangerous than the equivalent condition in men. Spironolactone is one of the most effective medications for women with high T.

As early adulthood sets in, testosterone levels may continue to fluctuate within this range, but some individuals may experience a slight decline as they progress through their twenties. These variations highlight the dynamic nature of testosterone levels during this crucial phase of life. Testosterone, often hailed as the quintessential male hormone, holds a vital role within the human body.

In conclusion, low free testosterone levels can lead to a variety of symptoms that can impact a person’s physical and emotional well-being. It is important to be aware of these symptoms and seek medical attention if they are experienced. Treatment options, including hormone replacement therapy and lifestyle changes, can help to restore healthy testosterone levels and improve overall quality of life. It’s worth mentioning that while free testosterone levels may decline with age, total testosterone levels may not necessarily follow the same pattern. This is because testosterone can be bound to proteins in the blood, making it less readily available for use by the body.

But sometimes, there can be an underlying reason behind this fall in testosterone levels. It could be obesity, diabetes, damage to testes, thyroid dysfunction, pituitary gland dysfunction, and medication side effects. Saliva testing for testosterone is a less common method that can measure free testosterone levels. While convenient, saliva tests are generally considered less accurate than blood tests and are there testosterone patches not widely used in clinical settings. For men, levels are usually highest in the morning, which is why blood samples are often collected early in the day. Factors such as recent food intake, stress, and physical activity can also affect testosterone levels, so it’s important for patients to follow specific instructions regarding preparation for the test.

When it comes to normal free testosterone levels during adolescence and early adulthood, there are distinct ranges and variations to consider. Research conducted by Smith et al. (2019), published in the Journal of Endocrinology, sheds light on this topic. According to the Endocrine Society’s Clinical Practice Guidelines, the normal range for free testosterone in women is typically between 0.3 to 1.9 ng/dL (nanograms per deciliter). However, it’s important to note that these ranges may vary slightly depending on the specific laboratory and testing method used. Free testosterone and albumin-bound testosterone are called bioavailable testosterone.

If you’re looking to monitor your hormone regime, the Endocrine Society recommends testing total testosterone levels, alongside other hormones such as oestradiol and prolactin in trans women. Guidelines suggest monitoring hormone therapy every three months during the first year (that is, with each dose adjustment), then once or twice a year once the dose is stabilised [5–7]. That said, free or bioavailable testosterone measurements may be valuable if total testosterone levels don’t seem to align with the stage of transition [8], which may be due to raised SHBG levels. As infancy progresses, testosterone levels gradually increase, but still remain relatively low compared to later stages of life. The most significant changes in testosterone occur during puberty when levels surge to support the development of secondary sexual characteristics, such as facial hair growth, deepening voice, and muscle development.