General Hormones

Total Testosterone on its own can be misleading. A significant portion of circulating testosterone is bound to SHBG and is not readily available to tissues. By measuring SHBG and Albumin alongside Total and Free Testosterone, this panel helps clarify how much testosterone is actually bioavailable.

This test may be relevant for men who want baseline insight into their androgenic hormone levels. It can also be useful for those who have had a Total Testosterone result that seemed inconsistent with how they feel, as SHBG variations may explain the discrepancy.

• Total Testosterone (nmol/l): the total amount of testosterone circulating in the blood, both bound and unbound.
• Free Testosterone (pmol/L): the fraction not bound to SHBG or Albumin, calculated from the other three markers.
• SHBG (nmol/l): a protein that binds testosterone, reducing its bioavailability.
• Albumin (g/l): a protein that loosely binds testosterone; used in the Free Testosterone calculation.

The results may indicate whether testosterone bioavailability is within expected ranges. Elevated SHBG, for example, could mean that even with a normal Total Testosterone reading, less testosterone is available at the tissue level. Low SHBG could suggest higher bioavailability but may also be associated with other metabolic factors.

A blood sample is drawn at a certified sample point (afnamepunt). There are over 750 locations across the Netherlands. After placing your order, you can select a location and time that works for you.

This panel may be useful as a baseline measurement before making lifestyle changes, or when symptoms such as fatigue, reduced motivation, or changes in body composition prompt a closer look at hormonal status. It can also serve as a reference point for future comparisons.

Results are presented with reference ranges for each marker. Values outside these ranges do not automatically indicate a problem; they should be interpreted in context. A healthcare provider can help determine whether any findings warrant further evaluation or follow-up.

Fasting is recommended for more consistent results. Testosterone levels tend to peak in the early morning, so testing between 7:00 and 10:00 AM is advised for a more representative reading.

Your results are available in your personal dashboard. If any values fall outside the reference range, or if you have questions about what the results may mean for your situation, discussing them with a healthcare provider is recommended.