Pacific · Testosterone Testing
Testosterone Testing in California
Testosterone Testing is a laboratory test you can request directly. Testosterone testing measures the amount of this key hormone in the blood. It helps evaluate conditions related to low or high testosterone.
Lab requirements in California
Here is what you need before ordering and completing the Testosterone Testing in CA. Review each item and confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Physician's order
- Included. A physician's order is required for lab testing and is provided for you by our partner's physicians — no referral from your own doctor is needed.
- Fasting
- Fasting is required for this test — follow the collection lab's instructions.
- Preparation
- Preparation instructions vary by laboratory and may include fasting or timing the test for the morning. Always follow the specific instructions provided by the collection lab.
- Sample & visit
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Identification
- Bring the lab requisition form from your account. The collection lab may also ask for a government-issued photo ID.
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Availability
- Our partner lab does not serve ND, RI, NY, NJ, MD or HI. Confirm availability for your location with the collection lab.
Before you go
- Order your test before visiting a lab, then use the requisition form in your account.
- Print the requisition form, or fax it to the lab directly from your account.
- No scheduling is needed — visit the collection lab during its normal business hours.
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Bring a government-issued photo ID in case the lab requests it.
- Results are posted to your secure account within 1–3 business days.
Requirements are summarized from our partner lab's published policies. Preparation and availability can change — confirm current instructions with the collection lab before your visit.
What this test is
Testosterone testing measures the level of testosterone, a hormone important for sexual development, muscle mass, and mood in both men and women. It is used to investigate symptoms such as fatigue, low sex drive, or infertility. The test can also monitor the effects of hormone therapy.
What it measures
- Total Testosterone — reflects the total amount of testosterone in the blood
- Free Testosterone — reflects the unbound, biologically active portion of testosterone
- Bioavailable Testosterone — reflects testosterone that is loosely bound and available to tissues
- Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) — reflects a protein that binds testosterone and affects its availability
What the test involves
The test involves a standard blood draw, usually from a vein in the arm. In some cases, a saliva or urine sample may be collected instead, depending on the lab's protocol.
Why it is often ordered
A clinician may order testosterone testing to evaluate symptoms like decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, or unexplained fatigue. It can also help diagnose conditions such as hypogonadism or testosterone excess, and to monitor hormone replacement therapy.
Preparation
Preparation instructions vary by laboratory and may include fasting or timing the test for the morning. Always follow the specific instructions provided by the collection lab.
How results are reported
Results are typically reported as a numeric value with a reference range, which varies by laboratory and by the method used. Your clinician will interpret your results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Before you go
- Whether fasting is required before the test
- The best time of day for sample collection
- Any medications or supplements that might affect results
Cities
Testosterone Testing in California communities
Choose your city for local context and to order this test.