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Hormones

Free testosterone: normal values and low results

Free testosterone is the unbound, bioavailable form of testosterone that can directly enter cells and activate receptors. It may indicate your body's functional androgen activity. Your healthcare provider can help interpret what your levels mean.

Turnaround up to 72 hours, estimate Turnaround: up to 72 hours after your blood draw (estimate).

Reference Ranges

See the value that applies to you:

Choose male or female — this range differs by sex.

Enter your age — this range changes with age.

This range also depends on context such as cycle phase or sample material; the highlighted rows apply to your group.

Male Your group
pmol/L
Low 170 Normal 700 High
Female Your group
pmol/L
Low 3 Normal 29 High

Reference values can vary between laboratories. Discuss your results with your GP for explanation and treatment decisions.

Free Testosterone: what this test measures

This test measures the fraction of testosterone not bound to proteins like SHBG or albumin. Free testosterone represents roughly 1-3% of total testosterone but is the most biologically active form. Your healthcare provider may compare this with total testosterone for a complete picture.

Free Testosterone: why this value matters

Free testosterone drives muscle development, energy levels, mood, and sexual function. Even when total testosterone appears normal, low free testosterone could suggest functional deficiency. Discussing your results with a healthcare provider may help identify whether further evaluation is warranted.

Free Testosterone: how the blood test works

Referral
No GP referral needed. After the order we arrange the referral through ZorgDomein, within one business day; orders after 17:00 or at the weekend start on the next business day. ZorgDomein emails a barcode, and that barcode is what the draw site needs.
The draw
A blood draw from a vein in the arm, at a partner laboratory's draw site. No home kit, no finger prick.
Results
Turnaround: up to 72 hours after your blood draw (estimate).
Where
650+ draw sites run by independent laboratories across the Netherlands. Draw sites

Free Testosterone: how to prepare

  1. Preferably in the morning

    Recommended

    A morning draw makes this value easiest to compare with its reference range. Plan the draw before 10:00 if you can.

  • Water is always fine. Drink as usual beforehand, it makes the draw easier.
  • Take your usual medication, unless your own doctor told you otherwise.

Free Testosterone: when is testing worthwhile?

Your healthcare provider may recommend testing free testosterone when experiencing fatigue, reduced libido, muscle loss, or mood changes. It could also be useful when total testosterone is normal but symptoms persist. Consult your provider for advice on optimal testing timing.

Free Testosterone: symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

Some people may experience persistent fatigue, decreased muscle mass, low mood, reduced libido, or difficulty concentrating when free testosterone is low. Weight gain and decreased bone density could also suggest insufficient bioavailable testosterone. A healthcare provider can help assess your symptoms.

High Levels

Elevated free testosterone may be associated with acne, excess hair growth, irritability, or aggression. In women, high levels could suggest polycystic ovary syndrome or other hormonal conditions. Your healthcare provider can evaluate whether your levels require further investigation.

Free Testosterone: what to do about an abnormal value

Male

If Low

Low free testosterone may cause symptoms despite normal total testosterone. Consider SHBG testing and consultation with an endocrinologist.

If High

Elevated free testosterone may indicate steroid use or testicular tumors. Consult with an endocrinologist for comprehensive evaluation.

Female

If Low

Low free testosterone may cause decreased libido and energy. Consider comprehensive hormone evaluation with an endocrinologist.

If High

High free testosterone may indicate PCOS or adrenal disorders. Consider evaluation for PCOS and lifestyle modifications including weight management.

Free Testosterone: lifestyle and this value

Regular resistance training, adequate sleep, stress management, and maintaining a healthy body weight may support healthy testosterone levels. Ensuring sufficient zinc and vitamin D intake could also contribute positively. Always discuss supplementation or significant lifestyle changes with your healthcare provider.

Free Testosterone: frequently asked questions

What is free testosterone?

Free testosterone is the unbound, active form that can directly enter cells and drive biological effects.

How does it differ from total testosterone?

Total testosterone includes bound and unbound forms; free testosterone measures only the active, usable fraction.

Can exercise affect free testosterone?

Resistance training and healthy sleep patterns may support free testosterone. Consult your provider for guidance.

Tests with related values

These panels measure values from the same category as this marker.

Results without a doctor's assessment

You receive your values with the unit and reference range. A doctor's assessment is not part of this site. Discuss your results with your GP for explanation and treatment decisions.

Free Testosterone

€105,-