What is the male hormone check?

This test offers a comprehensive insight into the levels of a number of hormones affecting male physiology, including testosterone, luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Testosterone is a steroid hormone that plays a key role in the development of the male reproductive system, muscle mass and body hair. Testosterone levels decline with age in males, a process known as andropause, resulting in physiological changes including reduced muscle strength and bone density. Not all of the testosterone in the body is available for tissues to utilise.

Testosterone binds with sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) or albumin, regulating the amount the body can use at any given time. Testosterone that is not bound to SHBG or albumin and is available for the body to use is known as bioavailable testosterone. Symptoms of low testosterone include reduced bone and muscle mass and low sex drive.

Follicle-stimulating hormone and Luteinising hormone are hormones secreted by the pituitary gland. They are important for both male and female sexual development but have important regulatory roles in adults. In males, FSH stimulates spermatogenesis and LH stimulates testosterone production. Abnormal production of either of these hormones can affect male fertility.

Why take the test?

This test combines the male fertility check with a male hormone test, offering a comprehensive insight into hormone balance in males. It can help explain symptoms such as loss of sex drive and reduced fertility along with many other hormone-related conditions.