This is the total amount of testosterone found in the blood. Some of it is attached to proteins, such as Sex-Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) or Albumin, which transport it around your body.
Free testosterone is the testosterone that is unbound and available to be used by the body’s cells.
When a cell binds to free testosterone its functionality is enabled. The more you have of it, the better.
This protein is produced in the liver and regulates hormone levels by binding to sex hormones, including testosterone.
When your SHBG levels are high, your body has less free testosterone available to be used by the body’s cells.
Another protein produced in the liver which binds to testosterone, inhibiting its ability to be used by the body’s cells.
Although oestrogen is considered to be a predominantly female hormone, it’s also present in men and plays an important role in regulating their libidos, erectile function, and the production of sperm.
A delicate balance of oestrogen and testosterone ensures optimal sexual function, as well as joint and brain health.
Prolactin is another hormone produced by the pituitary gland.
We monitor this as high levels may indicate issues that need treatment before TRT can commence.
These are hormones produced in the thyroid gland. We measure their levels to check for thyroid issues.
LH and FSH are hormones (or gonadotropins) produced in the pituitary gland. They control testosterone production in the testicles.
Low or high levels of these hormones can indicate that there’s an issue with the pituitary gland or testicles.
Liver and kidney function is reviewed before starting TRT to ensure that there are no other conditions present.
The full blood count shows general health markers and indicates if your red blood cell count is too high.
Testosterone can increase the number of red blood cells the body produces, so monitoring this while you’re on TRT is important.
Cholesterol and other lipids are evaluated before and during TRT to ensure that the patient is healthy and not at risk of cardiovascular issues.
Cortisol is reviewed before TRT to check other hormonal systems are functioning properly.
Ferritin is an indicator of a condition that may cause low testosterone.
FHbA1c is a marker used to check for diabetes and poor glycaemic control.
PSA is prostate specific antigen and is used to check for prostate issues.