The Andropause blood test is used to assess male hormone levels in men experiencing symptoms of andropause (also known as male menopause or testosterone deficiency syndrome). Andropause typically occurs as men age and testosterone levels gradually decline, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, low libido, depression, reduced muscle mass, and cognitive difficulties. This test is important for diagnosing low testosterone levels and other hormonal imbalances that may contribute to the symptoms of andropause.

Common Tests in an Andropause Blood Test Profile:

1. Total Testosterone

  • Purpose: Measures the total amount of testosterone in the blood, including testosterone bound to proteins and free testosterone.
  • Why It’s Tested: Low total testosterone levels are a hallmark of andropause. This test helps determine whether a man is experiencing a decline in testosterone production, which is responsible for many andropause symptoms.

2. Free Testosterone

  • Purpose: Measures the amount of testosterone that is not bound to proteins and is available for use by the body.
  • Why It’s Tested: Free testosterone is the biologically active form of testosterone. Testing free testosterone provides a clearer picture of a man’s androgen status, especially when total testosterone levels are borderline low.

3. SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin)

  • Purpose: Measures the protein that binds to testosterone and other sex hormones.
  • Why It’s Tested: SHBG affects how much free testosterone is available in the blood. Elevated SHBG can reduce free testosterone levels, even if total testosterone is within the normal range. This test helps determine whether low free testosterone is due to high SHBG.

4. LH (Luteinizing Hormone)

  • Purpose: LH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates testosterone production in the testes.
  • Why It’s Tested: Low testosterone levels combined with low LH may suggest a problem with the pituitary gland (secondary hypogonadism), while high LH levels with low testosterone could indicate testicular failure (primary hypogonadism). LH helps differentiate between these causes of low testosterone.

5. FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)

  • Purpose: FSH helps regulate the production of sperm and is involved in testicular function.
  • Why It’s Tested: Like LH, FSH is tested to assess whether the cause of low testosterone is testicular or pituitary in origin. High FSH levels may indicate testicular dysfunction, while low levels could point to a pituitary problem.

6. DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate)

  • Purpose: Measures the levels of DHEA-S, an androgen produced by the adrenal glands.
  • Why It’s Tested: DHEA-S is a precursor to testosterone, and its levels can influence testosterone production. Low DHEA-S levels might suggest adrenal dysfunction, contributing to low testosterone and symptoms of andropause.

Importance of an Andropause Blood Test:

The andropause blood test profile helps healthcare providers assess whether a man’s symptoms are related to declining testosterone levels and whether hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or other treatments are needed. It also helps rule out other conditions (like thyroid dysfunction, adrenal disorders, or pituitary issues) that could be contributing to the symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Andropause:

  • Low libido
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Fatigue and low energy
  • Depression or mood changes
  • Reduced muscle mass
  • Increased body fat, especially around the abdomen
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Decreased bone density (osteoporosis)

Andropause Treatment following Andropause Blood Test:

If low testosterone is confirmed, treatment options may include:

  • Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT): Injections, gels, patches, or tablets to restore testosterone levels.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Including exercise, weight loss, and stress reduction.
  • Nutritional Support: Ensuring adequate intake of nutrients like vitamin D and zinc, which play roles in hormone regulation.

This blood test profile provides a comprehensive evaluation of hormonal health, helping to ensure that andropause is accurately diagnosed and treated effectively.

Results – 8 hours from Laboratory receiving sample