Library
/
Sex Hormones
/
Testosterone, Total Test

Testosterone, Total Test

January 21, 2026
Subscribe for updates
By clicking “Subscribe” you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.
Your content is on its way!
By clicking “Subscribe” you agree to our TOS and Privacy Policy.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Do I need a Testosterone, Total test?

Feeling constantly fatigued, losing muscle despite working out, or noticing a drop in your drive and motivation? Could low testosterone be affecting your energy, strength, and overall vitality?

Total testosterone measures the primary hormone that regulates your energy levels, muscle mass, bone density, and mood. When levels are off, you may struggle with fatigue, decreased strength, low libido, or mental fog.

Testing your testosterone provides a vital snapshot of your hormonal health, helping you understand whether imbalances are behind your symptoms. This clarity empowers you to personalize your treatment plan and lifestyle choices, so you can reclaim your energy and feel strong again.

Book your test now
With Superpower, you have access to a comprehensive range of biomarker tests
Book a Testosterone, Total Test Test
Physician reviewed
CLIA-certified labs
HIPAA compliant

Get tested with Superpower

If you’ve been postponing blood testing for years or feel frustrated by doctor appointments and limited lab panels, you are not alone. Standard healthcare is often reactive, focusing on testing only after symptoms appear or leaving patients in the dark.

Superpower flips that approach. We give you full insight into your body with over 100 biomarkers, personalized action plans, long-term tracking, and answers to your questions, so you can stay ahead of any health issues.

With physician-reviewed results, CLIA-certified labs, and the option for at-home blood draws, Superpower is designed for people who want clarity, convenience, and real accountability - all in one place.

Key benefits of Testosterone, Total testing

  • Measures the total amount of testosterone circulating in your blood.
  • Spots hormonal imbalance that may explain fatigue, low libido, or mood changes.
  • Flags conditions like hypogonadism, PCOS, or pituitary disorders early.
  • Guides treatment decisions for testosterone replacement or fertility support.
  • Tracks response to therapy and ensures hormone levels stay in healthy range.
  • Clarifies unexplained symptoms like muscle loss, weight gain, or irregular periods.
  • Best interpreted with free testosterone, SHBG, and your clinical symptoms.

What is Testosterone, Total?

Total testosterone measures the complete amount of testosterone circulating in your blood. This includes testosterone that is tightly bound to proteins, loosely bound, and freely floating. Testosterone is a steroid hormone produced mainly in the testes in men and in smaller amounts by the ovaries and adrenal glands in women.

The master hormone of male development

Testosterone drives the development of male physical characteristics during puberty and maintains them throughout life. It supports muscle mass, bone density, red blood cell production, and sperm formation. In both sexes, it influences energy, mood, and sexual function.

More than just a sex hormone

Beyond reproduction, testosterone plays a vital role in metabolic health. It helps regulate fat distribution, supports cardiovascular function, and influences cognitive performance. The "total" measurement captures all forms of the hormone in circulation, providing a broad snapshot of your body's testosterone status.

This biomarker reflects how well your endocrine system is producing and managing one of its most influential chemical messengers.

Why is Testosterone, Total important?

Total testosterone measures the sum of free and protein-bound testosterone circulating in your blood, offering a window into reproductive health, muscle and bone integrity, energy regulation, and metabolic balance. It influences libido, mood, cognitive sharpness, and how your body builds lean tissue and burns fat. Reference ranges vary widely by sex and age, with men typically showing values many times higher than women, and optimal levels generally sitting in the mid-to-upper portion of the normal range for vitality and function.

When testosterone runs low

Declining testosterone can signal aging, chronic illness, pituitary or testicular dysfunction, or metabolic stress. Men may experience reduced libido, erectile difficulties, fatigue, loss of muscle mass, increased body fat, and mood changes including depression. Women with low levels may notice diminished sexual desire, low energy, and subtle shifts in bone density over time, though their baseline is naturally much lower.

When testosterone climbs too high

Elevated testosterone in men is uncommon without supplementation or tumors but can drive aggression, acne, and cardiovascular strain. In women, high levels often point to polycystic ovary syndrome, adrenal disorders, or ovarian tumors, manifesting as irregular periods, excess facial or body hair, acne, and metabolic disturbances like insulin resistance.

The bigger metabolic and longevity picture

Testosterone doesn't act alone - it interacts with insulin, cortisol, thyroid hormones, and estrogen to shape body composition, bone strength, cardiovascular risk, and mental resilience. Chronic imbalances contribute to osteoporosis, sarcopenia, metabolic syndrome, and diminished quality of life across decades.

What do my Testosterone, Total results mean?

Low values and what they reveal

Low values usually reflect reduced production by the testes in men or the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. In men, this often signals primary testicular dysfunction or secondary issues involving the pituitary gland, which produces luteinizing hormone to stimulate testosterone synthesis. Common effects include reduced muscle mass, lower bone density, decreased libido, fatigue, and mood changes. In women, low testosterone may contribute to reduced energy, diminished sexual interest, and loss of muscle tone, though symptoms are often subtler than in men.

Optimal values and system stability

Being in range suggests healthy gonadal and adrenal function, appropriate pituitary signaling, and balanced metabolic activity. In men, optimal levels typically sit in the mid to upper portion of the reference range and support muscle maintenance, bone health, libido, and mood stability. In women, normal levels are much lower but still essential for energy, sexual function, and overall vitality.

High values and their significance

High values usually reflect exogenous testosterone use, androgen-secreting tumors, or polycystic ovary syndrome in women. In men, elevations are less common without supplementation. Women with high testosterone may experience irregular menstrual cycles, acne, excess body hair, and metabolic disturbances.

Factors that influence interpretation

Results vary by age, sex, time of day, and assay method. Testosterone peaks in the morning and declines with aging. Illness, obesity, and certain medications can suppress levels independent of gonadal health.

Method: Laboratory-developed test (LDT) validated under CLIA; not cleared or approved by the FDA. Results are interpreted by clinicians in context and are not a stand-alone diagnosis.

Subscribe for updates
By clicking “Subscribe” you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.
Your content is on its way!
By clicking “Subscribe” you agree to our TOS and Privacy Policy.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Similar biomarker tests from Superpower

See more biomarkers

Frequently Asked Questions

Read more
How it works
What should I expect during a blood draw?
  • A trained phlebotomist will guide you through the process.
  • A tourniquet is placed on your arm, the site is cleaned, and a small needle is used to collect blood into one or more tubes.
  • Results are usually ready in about a week.
  • Most people feel only a quick pinch.
  • The needle is removed, gentle pressure is applied, and a bandage is placed.
How do I prepare for a blood draw?
  • Drink plenty of water beforehand — hydration makes veins easier to find.
  • Wear loose sleeves so your arm is easy to access.
  • Follow any fasting instructions you’ve been given.
  • Let us know if you’re on medications, have fainted before, or have needle anxiety.
What should I do after my blood draw?
  • Press gently on the site for a few minutes.
  • Keep the bandage on for 4-6 hours.
  • Skip heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for the rest of the day.
  • Drink extra water to rehydrate.
  • Monitor the site for redness, swelling, or pain.
How do I book a blood draw with Superpower?

Your membership includes:

  • An annual full body test and report across 100+ biomarkers
  • A personalized action plan to optimize your biomarkers and reach your health goals
  • A dashboard to centralize your health data and track changes across a lifetime
  • Access to a health concierge for questions on your plan and help scheduling
  • Plus a marketplace of curated health products and services cheaper than amazon

Many concierge clinics charge $10k – $100k for their services, we’ve built technology to make the world’s best healthcare as accessible as possible via an all-in-one membership.

Where can I take my blood test?

Superpower is currently available in the following US states:

  • Alabama
  • Arizona
  • California
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Delaware
  • District of Columbia
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Idaho
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Kansas
  • Maine
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan
  • Minnesota
  • Missouri
  • Montana
  • Nebraska
  • Nevada
  • New Hampshire
  • New Jersey
  • New Mexico
  • New York
  • North Carolina
  • Ohio
  • Oklahoma
  • Oregon
  • Pennsylvania
  • South Carolina
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Utah
  • Vermont
  • Virginia
  • Washington
  • West Virginia
  • Wisconsin
Our testing
Does Superpower replace my primary care provider?

Superpower specializes in prevention-based testing and treatments and is not intended for emergency or immediate health issues.

While you will have a Superpower care team, your annual membership is designed to complement a primary care doctor if you have one, not replace them.

We are happy to help you share any test results with an outside provider to ensure you receive well-rounded medical care.

How fast are blood test results and how do I read them?

Your annual lab test panel takes about a week to process. We will text you as soon as they become available in your dashboard. Other types of tests may have different testing windows. The Superpower concierge is your own health assistant who helps answer your questions on your results, ensure smooth scheduling, coordination of any office-based tests, specialist referrals as needed, and navigating you to interface with your care team.

Does Superpower accept health insurance?

Superpower membership and products are all eligible for HSA/FSA funding.

We see Superpower like a gym membership for those committed to prevention and performance. Superpower is a bridge between wellness and healthcare. Health insurance traditionally focuses on reactive care whereas, at Superpower, we believe it’s never too early to start looking out for your long-term health.

What if I want more than 1 blood test per year?

Absolutely — you're not limited to just one. Your membership includes one comprehensive 100+ biomarker blood test each year, but if you'd like to track your progress more closely, you can add extra tests at any time. Each additional full-panel test costs $179. You can order as many as you'd like throughout the year.

“Best health check of my entire life.”

Vinay Hiremath, Founder of Loom

“Life changing”

Jordi Hayes, Founder of Capital.xyz

Frequently Asked Questions about Testosterone, Total Test

What does a “Total Testosterone” blood test measure, and how is it different from free testosterone?

A Total Testosterone test measures the complete amount of testosterone circulating in your blood, including testosterone that is tightly protein-bound, loosely bound, and freely floating. Because most testosterone is bound to proteins, total testosterone provides a broad snapshot of overall hormone status. However, symptoms can correlate more closely with free testosterone, so results are often best interpreted alongside free testosterone and SHBG for a clearer picture of bioavailable hormone levels.

Why would my doctor order a Total Testosterone test for fatigue, low libido, or mood changes?

Total testosterone testing helps spot hormonal imbalance that can explain fatigue, reduced libido, irritability, depression, and low motivation. Testosterone influences energy production, mood regulation, and sexual function in both men and women. Measuring total testosterone can also flag underlying conditions such as hypogonadism, pituitary signaling problems, or (in women) PCOS. It’s commonly used to guide next steps, including additional hormone tests and targeted treatment planning.

What are the normal Total Testosterone ranges for men and women, and how should I interpret them?

Typical adult ranges in men are roughly 300–1,000 ng/dL, while women usually have much lower concentrations around 15–70 ng/dL. Being “in range” generally suggests healthy gonadal function and appropriate hormonal signaling. Interpretation depends on symptoms, age-related decline, and testing variability. Many clinicians also consider whether results sit low, mid, or high within the reference range and may compare total testosterone with free testosterone and SHBG for better clinical context.

What causes low Total Testosterone levels in men, and what symptoms can it explain?

Low total testosterone in men often reflects reduced testicular production (primary hypogonadism) or inadequate pituitary signaling (secondary hypogonadism). Common symptoms include fatigue, reduced libido, loss of muscle mass and strength, increased body fat (especially abdominal), mood changes, and difficulty concentrating. Over time, low testosterone can contribute to reduced bone density and higher fracture risk. Contributing factors may include aging, obesity, chronic stress, sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, and certain medications like opioids or corticosteroids.

What does low Total Testosterone mean for women, and can it affect energy or libido?

In women, low total testosterone can contribute to reduced sexual desire and persistent fatigue, though symptoms are often subtler and overlap with other hormonal changes. Testosterone still supports libido, mood stability, bone density, and metabolic health even at low physiologic levels. Because women’s reference ranges are much lower, results should be interpreted carefully with symptoms and, when appropriate, related markers like SHBG and free testosterone to understand whether low values are clinically meaningful.

What causes high Total Testosterone results, and when is it concerning?

High total testosterone in men is uncommon unless related to testosterone supplementation or, more rarely, certain tumors. Supraphysiologic levels can increase acne, worsen sleep apnea, and suppress natural hormone production, potentially affecting fertility. In women, elevated testosterone frequently signals PCOS and may present with irregular periods, acne, excess facial/body hair, and insulin resistance. Persistently high results generally warrant evaluation of reproductive organs, pituitary function, and metabolic risk factors.

How does Total Testosterone testing help detect PCOS, hypogonadism, or pituitary disorders early?

Total testosterone can flag hormonal patterns linked to key endocrine conditions. In women, elevated testosterone is a common clue for PCOS, especially when paired with irregular periods, acne, or hirsutism. In men, low total testosterone can indicate hypogonadism due to testicular dysfunction or impaired pituitary signaling. Because testosterone reflects how the endocrine system is producing and managing this hormone, abnormal results can prompt earlier follow-up testing and clinical evaluation before complications develop.

How is Total Testosterone used to guide testosterone replacement therapy or fertility support?

Total testosterone helps determine whether levels are low enough to consider testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and supports ongoing treatment decisions. It’s also used to track response to therapy and ensure hormone levels stay in a healthy range. Since external testosterone can suppress natural production and affect fertility, results are often interpreted alongside symptoms and related labs (such as free testosterone and SHBG). Monitoring helps balance symptom relief with metabolic, reproductive, and safety considerations.

What factors can affect Total Testosterone test results, like time of day, illness, obesity, or medications?

Testosterone varies by circadian rhythm, typically peaking in the early morning, and declines gradually with age. Acute illness, obesity, and chronic conditions can lower testosterone levels. Certain medications - such as opioids and corticosteroids - may also reduce testosterone. Lab assay methods can differ, so using the same testing location can improve consistency when tracking changes over time. Because many factors influence results, clinicians often interpret total testosterone alongside symptoms and complementary markers.

Why should Total Testosterone be interpreted with SHBG and free testosterone, and what’s a common misconception?

A common misconception is that total testosterone alone always explains symptoms. Total testosterone includes protein-bound hormone, and changes in SHBG can alter how much testosterone is available to tissues even when total levels look “normal.” Interpreting total testosterone with free testosterone, SHBG, and clinical symptoms provides a more accurate view of hormonal balance. This combined approach helps clarify unexplained fatigue, low libido, muscle loss, weight gain, or irregular periods and supports more precise treatment decisions.

Finally, healthcare that looks at the whole you