Testosterone Blood Test

A testosterone blood test measures how much testosterone is circulating in your blood. At Voy, we check both total and free testosterone, plus SHBG and albumin, for a complete picture.

• Total testosterone (TT) is all the testosterone in your bloodstream. Most of it is bound to proteins (SHBG and albumin) that carry it around your body.
• Free testosterone (FT) is the unbound portion that's biologically active and can act directly on your cells.

Together, these markers show whether low testosterone could be affecting you.

We check both total and free testosterone. On your results, you'll see them listed as "Total Testosterone" (TT) and "Free Testosterone" (FT). Some labs may also use "Testosterone, Serum" for the total measurement.

Our standard blood test measures four biomarkers:

• Free Testosterone (FT)
• Total Testosterone (TT)
• Albumin
• Sex‑Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)

Free testosterone is the portion of testosterone that is not attached to proteins in your blood. Because it's unbound, it can enter your cells and trigger normal testosterone-driven functions such as energy, libido and muscle repair. The more free testosterone available, the better your body can respond.

It shows your total and free testosterone levels, plus the proteins (SHBG and albumin) that affect how much testosterone is available for your body to use. Together, these markers help your advisor understand whether low testosterone might explain your symptoms and if further testing is needed.

It’s best to take the test in the morning because testosterone levels are naturally highest earlier in the day.

You don't need to fast before your testosterone blood test, but we encourage it if possible. Testosterone levels can drop slightly after eating, so fasting overnight (water is fine) helps ensure the most accurate reading. We also recommend taking the sample in the morning (ideally before 10am) when testosterone levels naturally peak, giving you the most accurate reading.

Follow these steps for the most accurate results:

• Book your test for the morning
• Fast overnight if possible (water is fine)
• Avoid heavy exercise for 24 hours before your test
• Stay calm - try to minimise stress before your test

You’ll collect a small blood sample from your fingertip using the sterile lancet provided. Place it in the collection vial and send it to our UKAS‑accredited lab using the prepaid return packaging. The lab analyses your sample and uploads your results to your secure Voy account.

Collecting your sample usually takes about 5–10 minutes from start to finish.

We have some useful tips to help you complete the blood test successfully:

• Watch our video tutorial - Follow our step-by-step guide on how to complete the test
• Stay hydrated - Drink a glass of water before the test to improve blood flow
• Warm your hands - Take a warm shower or wash your hands with warm water to increase circulation
• Choose the right finger - The ring finger often works best as it has good circulation
• Use gravity - Keep your hand below heart level and point your finger downward to help blood flow

Following these tips will help you collect enough blood for accurate results.

Results are typically available 2–5 working days after your sample reaches the lab.

If your results suggest low testosterone, a Voy advisor will walk you through what that means for you. The next step is a comprehensive venous blood test to confirm the initial result, learn more about your health, and assess whether it's safe to start treatment.

You'll then discuss your blood test results, symptoms, medical history, and treatment options (including costs) with an expert TRT doctor. If treatment is right for you, your doctor will design a personalised treatment plan tailored to your lifestyle, which may include medication, lifestyle advice or supplements.

Yes. Every blood test is clinician-reviewed. Once your results are back, you'll be able to view them on your Voy account along with a breakdown of all the biomarkers. Your next steps will be provided clearly through tasks in your account, guiding you through each stage of the process.

Private medical insurance coverage varies. Most customers self-fund the test. We provide receipts that you can submit to your insurer if your policy covers it.