Free testosterone (S-Testo-V, S-Testo-Vl)

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TIETOPAKETIT

Free testosterone (S-Testo-V, S-Testo-Vl)

How does testosterone affect the body?

• Among other things, testosterone has an effect on the development of typical male characteristics during puberty, sperm production, and sex drive.
• It also affects bone and muscle mass, fat stores in men and red blood cell production.
• Testosterone levels also affect our mood. 
• Low testosterone levels can cause sexual disorders, such as erectile dysfunction and lack of sexual desire. Sexual desire or low libido is also affected by various other hormones and neurotransmitters in the brain. 

What is the free testosterone?

The majority of testosterone in the blood is bound to plasma proteins. Only 1–3% of testosterone is available in solution plasma. The S-Testo test measures the amount of total testosterone in the blood.

If the levels of testosterone-binding proteins in the blood change, the S-Testo value changes with them, even if testosterone production is normal. Therefore, the test for free testosterone (S-Testo-VL) may be used to assess testosterone levels. 

The test for free testosterone calculates the level of active, free testosterone in the bloodstream. Free testosterone is determined by a formula based on testosterone and SHBG.

How can I get my free testosterone tested?

Check out the Extensive Puhti laboratory package (men), which includes tests for total testosterone (S-Testo), free testosterone (S-Testo-VL) and SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin).

Extensive Puhti laboratory package is a great choice when you want to gain more thorough information about the well-being of your body. The laboratory package will help you check how your body is doing and make better choices for your health. More than 30 tests are included, including cholesterol, blood glucose, vitamins D and B12, and ferritin.

The tests can be taken at Mehiläinen laboratories in more than 75 locations across Finland. 

Through Puhti, you can also easily book a remote appointment with a doctor as a separate service, during which you can go through all the results. 

Testosterone sample is taken between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m.

Please note that, if you are having testosterone replacement therapy and using topical gel, you need to avoid applying the gel on your forearms. Testosterone gel on the forearm may yield incorrect test results.

 Reference values for S-Testo-VL

Low testosterone level

As men age, the secretion of testosterone gradually decreases. Low testosterone is also possible in younger men. Decreased testosterone levels are most often associated with excess weight and lifestyle, but there may be other causes as well. 

Losing excess weight is the most effective way to boost testosterone; even losing a few kilos can help increase testosterone levels. Exercise helps with weight loss. We also recommend cutting back on alcohol consumption and quitting smoking. 

You can also think about reducing stress factors in your life, as stress causes the body to secrete cortisol which in turn interferes with testosterone production. 

You can read more about testosterone and its effects in this article.

Testosterone is the most important sex hormone in men

Preparing for a blood test – instructions before sample collection 

SHBG – Sex hormone binding globulin