About Testosterone
Testosterone is a sex hormone that’s crucial to male development. It is primarily produced by the male testes and, to a lesser degree, by the female ovaries and adrenal glands.
During foetal development, testosterone is responsible for the growth of the male sexual organs, which then become the cornerstone of puberty and sperm production later in life.
Testosterone fulfils many functions, such as keeping up the libido (sex drive), maintaining high levels of energy, and giving men their strength and physical features. Because men have a much larger amount of testosterone in their bodies than women, it is easier for men to build muscle than it is for women.
Aside from these bodily functions, testosterone is also part of several metabolic pathways that lead to red blood cell (RBC) production, bone metabolism, and liver function.
The causes of low testosterone levels
Testosterone has an important role in the body and affects many areas. It affects the brain, the bones, muscles, mass, and the heart, as well as sexual function.
However, the level of testosterone decreases naturally with age. Men in their 70s have about 40% less testosterone than men in their 20s. This natural decline is also referred to as ‘male menopause’. It is normal for the level of testosterone to fall by about 1% after the age of 30.
However, stress and an unhealthy lifestyle can negatively impact testosterone levels. That is why it is recommended to eat healthy, do plenty of exercise, and limit your alcohol consumption. Read more about boosting your testosterone levels.
The effects of low testosterone levels
Low testosterone levels can have unwanted effects.
Below we have listed some symptoms men may experience if they have a testosterone deficiency:
- Decreased lean muscle mass
- Loss of hair in some areas of the body (e.g. facial hair)
- Atrophy of the sex organs (e.g. penis, testes)
- Decreased libido
- Reduced sperm count, and eventually infertility
- Gynecomastia (male boobs)
- Hot flashes
- Mood swings, irritation, and decreased concentration
- A decline in mental clarity and performance
- Increased risk of fractures due to low bone mineral density
In women, the symptoms of low testosterone can be subtle and generally include:
- Decreased sex drive
- Decreased sexual satisfaction
- Vaginal dryness
- Fatigue
- Low energy
- Unhealthy bones
The Testosterone Test measures testosterone, DHEA, and more
Testosterone is formed from DHEA and the levels of DHEA can thus directly affect the levels of testosterone. It can therefore be wise to measure both hormones. If you are looking for a more comprehensive hormone panel for men, we recommend the Men’s Hormone Test.
About the testosterone test kit
A testosterone test kit can measure your levels of testosterone for you and can clarify for you whether your levels are normal for a man or whether you may be in need of further treatment. If the results suggest you have a testosterone deficiency, your doctor may prescribe testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) or you may be referred to an endocrinologist, a specialist in hormone problems.
As for women, if your levels turn out to be low, you could be able to get testosterone therapy treatment regardless of whether it’s low or normal, after consulting with your doctor about what is the right step for you.
Measuring your testosterone levels
You can measure your own testosterone levels easily at home with our testosterone test kit UK. For this test, you will collect samples of saliva, which you then need to send to our partner lab, where it is analysed at an ISO 13485-certified lab.
This test measures free testosterone in saliva, i.e. the active hormones that reach the receptors in the body. Free testosterone is also known as unbound testosterone, which means that it is available for your body cells to use.
While a large amount of testosterone tests measure total testosterone, most testosterone in the blood is not actually available for use by the body.
Difference between a testosterone blood test and a saliva test
A majority of testosterone test kits test your levels of testosterone by testing your blood. This means you would have to take some of your blood using a finger prick device called a lance. This can be an uncomfortable experience, especially if you are doing it for the first time and you may have to try a few times to get it right. Getting someone else to do the pricking for you, can be just as challenging.
On the other hand, our tests measure your testosterone levels from your saliva instead of blood. This makes our tests a lot more convenient to use. For example, people with naturally cold hands may experience difficulty acquiring blood from pricking their fingers, which makes a blood test not ideal. It is also more comfortable for people who are sensitive to blood and needles. You will have no trouble taking samples of saliva.
When it comes to measuring the levels of testosterone, a saliva test is just as adequate as a blood test and will give you results that are just as reliable.
FAQ
How much does a testosterone test kit cost?
A testosterone test kit can be purchased for the price of £44,00.
Testosterone test kits are shipped every day
Who is the testosterone kit for?
You may want to get a testosterone test kit if you are above the age of 40 (45 and menopausal in the case of women) and are experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms caused by low testosterone levels.
Where can I get a testosterone test?
You can get your own testosterone test kit from us, delivered to you and ready to use at home.
What is a good testosterone level?
A normal testosterone level for men (age 19 and up) ranges from 7.6 to 41.4 nmol/L
A normal testosterone level for women (age 19 and up) ranges from 0 – 1.8 nmol/L
Testosterone levels reach their peak around 19 years before slowly declining.
How long do I fast before taking the testosterone test?
To ensure an accurate measurement, you must be fasting when the sample is taken. The reason why is that glucose levels can have an effect on the production of testosterone. The body’s production of testosterone drops after having a meal, so it is best to take the sample in the morning on an empty stomach before you have eaten or drunk.
How long does it take to get testosterone test results
As soon as the samples have arrived, they will immediately be tested at the lab, so you can expect the test results should be back to you within a week.
At what time do I take a testosterone test?
It is recommended to take the testosterone test in the morning. Testosterone levels fluctuate in a daily cycle and have a tendency to be higher in the morning (the peak of the male hormone cycle)
How does a doctor test for low testosterone
A doctor will usually test for testosterone levels by taking your blood. However, if you prefer not to have your blood taken or would like to take a test by yourself in the comfort of your own home, before consulting a doctor, we highly recommend getting a testosterone test kit. It’s easy and ready to use and the test results are just as reliable.
Does this test indicate fertility?
No, your levels of testosterone do not give any indication of your fertility. Fertility is tested by researching the quality of sperm. Consult with your doctor if you think you could be infertile.
Will I be able to get treatment after the test?
You may want to consult your doctor, who may prescribe you testosterone therapy treatment.
For women, consult with your doctor about the right step, as you could get testosterone therapy treatment regardless of whether it’s low or normal.
What can I do to naturally increase my testosterone levels?
To boost your testosterone levels, a healthy lifestyle is recommended. You could consider switching to a healthy diet, drinking less alcohol, exercising more frequently, or quitting smoking.
Before you start, you need to register your test. Your test kit contains a sticker with your unique test ID. Register your test ID at 
Rinse your mouth with water. Spit and wait for a few minutes until you have saliva in your mouth again.
Open the test tube and straw.
Use the straw as a funnel to transfer your saliva into the test tube. Make sure that the tube is filled. A few bubbles in the saliva are no problem.
Put the sticker with your unique test ID on the test tube and seal.
Repeat the procedure with the other test tubes:
Store the test tubes in the fridge until you send them. Put the tests in the enclosed envelope. Send the tests to the lab the next day (preferably a Monday)
Charlotte –
Worked well
Charlotte –
Got my answer within a week
Logan –
Aging is inevitable, but understanding its effects on our body can offer a semblance of control. Recently, I’ve been feeling out of sync – lower energy, mood fluctuations, and reduced drive. It led me to consider the role of hormones, specifically testosterone. 🙂 Ordering the test was hassle-free. The comprehensive instructions ensured I collected the sample correctly. Once sent, the results returned faster than anticipated. The depth of information provided was genuinely impressive. Instead of just throwing numbers at me, the report offered context, comparisons, and implications. 🙂 Post this test, I’m more informed, allowing me to make specific lifestyle adjustments. It’s been an invaluable experience, highlighting the silent yet potent role hormones play in our lives. 🙂
Ludovic –
This at-home testosterone test gave me the insight I needed. Thanks, GetTested!
Benjamin Wallace –
Working in a demanding corporate environment, I attributed my declining energy and drive to stress. However, a chance conversation about testosterone and its impact made me curious. On a whim, I decided to take the Testosterone Test. Receiving the kit, I found the process surprisingly simple. The results that followed were a revelation. I was furnished with not just my testosterone levels but what those numbers meant in the larger scheme of things. Armed with this knowledge, I approached my doctor, leading to meaningful discussions about my health. This test isn’t just about a figure; it’s about a comprehensive understanding of one’s hormonal health.
Horatio –
Fast, accurate, and easy to use. This testosterone test was a game-changer.
Jeremy Preston –
Years of dealing with fatigue, despite adequate rest and a balanced lifestyle, pushed me to delve deeper into potential underlying causes. Multiple friends hinted at possible hormonal imbalances, specifically pointing to testosterone. Skeptical yet hopeful, I decided to give the Testosterone Test a shot.
The kit’s arrival was prompt. The instructions? Clear and concise, leaving no room for confusion. Post sending my sample, the waiting period felt like an eternity, given the anticipation.
Receiving the detailed results was an enlightening experience. I was unaware of the intricacies of testosterone and its impact on a man’s overall health. The report was a blend of facts, comparisons, and implications, painting a holistic picture of where I stood.
It served as a catalyst for a much-needed discussion with my doctor. Together, we charted a way forward. Today, understanding my testosterone levels has brought about a significant shift in my daily life. It’s not just about the number; it’s about understanding its role in your overall wellbeing. I’d strongly recommend this test to every man out there.
Felix –
I’ve been feeling sluggish and unmotivated for a while. This test helped me uncover that I had low testosterone levels. Now, I’m working with my doctor to address this. Can’t thank GetTested enough for their efficient service.
Anthony Graham –
Fitness has always been an integral part of my life. As a personal trainer, I’ve always advocated the importance of understanding one’s body to get the best results. As I edged closer to my late 30s, I noticed a shift. Despite consistent workouts, I wasn’t seeing the gains I used to, and my energy levels noticeably declined. It made me wonder if there were internal factors at play, which led me to consider testing my testosterone levels. Purchasing the Testosterone Test was a proactive decision. The package that arrived was neatly organized, with detailed instructions, making the sample collection procedure incredibly straightforward. After sending it back, the anticipation for the results was palpable. When they arrived, I was taken aback. The report was comprehensive, detailing my testosterone levels and offering insights into what those figures meant concerning average levels for my age. The fact that the test provided such depth gave me a clearer perspective on what might be affecting my performance. After sharing the results with my physician, we worked on a plan. Since then, I’ve felt more in tune with my body. For anyone who feels they’re not achieving their best despite their best efforts, this test could offer valuable insights. 🙂 🙂 🙂