How to Determine Testosterone Levels

Testosterone is an important hormone in a man's body which regulates bone density, muscle mass and strength, according to the Mayo Clinic. In addition, testosterone also regulates fat, the production of red blood cells, sperm count and libido. The body naturally begins to produce less testosterone with an increase in age, usually beginning around 30 to 40 years old. If a lack of testosterone is suspected, the only way to accurately determine testosterone levels is through testing with a health care provider. After testing, should the results prove a deficiency, there are a variety of options to help restore testosterone levels.

Things You'll Need

• doctor

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Instructions

• 1

  Consult your health care provider if you are concerned about a possible deficiency in testosterone. Doctors are the only ones who can accurately assess testosterone levels.

• 2

  Check with your medical insurance to determine whether or not they will pay for the testing. If not, be prepared to pay at the time of the test.

• 3

  Ensure the appointment you schedule is in the morning, as this is when testosterone levels are the highest, according to Web MD.

• 4

  Do not do anything differently to prepare for the test. It is best to maintain a regular lifestyle prior to testing to have the most accurate analysis of testosterone levels.

• 5

  Report to the doctor the day of the testing. According to Web MD, the doctor or nurse will take a blood sample by wrapping your arm with a elastic band, sanitizing the skin, inserting a needle into your arm and taking a tube of blood.

• 6

  Stop the bleeding by allowing the nurse or doctor to apply pressure to the area and cover with a bandage to keep the area clean.

• 7

  Wait for the results of the test to come back, which is usually two to three days. Interpretation can be complicated, so let the doctor interpret the results. Different levels are expected for different people, based on various factors such as gender, age and weight.