Atruchecks

About Sex hormone binding globulin

What is sex hormone-binding globulin?

Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is a protein produced in the liver. SHBG binds to sex hormones including testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and oestradiol. SHBG regulates the amount of testosterone that the body can use at any given time by binding to the hormone. For instance, testosterone that is not bound to SHBG and is available for the body to use is known as bioavailable testosterone.

SHBG levels must be regulated to ensure there is the right amount of testosterone in the body. Too much SHBG results in less bioavailable testosterone which is associated with ageing, pregnancy, anorexia, hyperthyroidism, growth hormone deficiency and liver disease. Too little SHBG causes more bioavailable testosterone and is associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, hyperthyroidism and excess growth hormone.

Why take the test?

This test measures the level of SHBG in the blood and can be used to determine how much testosterone is free for the body to use.

What's tested

Hormones

How it works

Purchase your Kit

Just order a test online and get your kit delivered right to your door unless you are ordering a COVID-19 Fit to Fly test where you will be given appointment options to attend our clinics across the United Kingdom for a nose and throat swab PCR test at the checkout stage.

Take your test and post

Follow our simple instructions to take your sample and post back the enclosed prepaid envelope to our accredited lab for processing. We also offer home or workplace visits by a qualified nurse. For COVID-19 Fit to Fly tests you must attend one of our partner clinics for our trained collection officers to take your sample. You will then have the results emailed to you.