BiomarkersTotal testosterone

Hormones

Total testosterone

The main male hormone, also important in women

On your report it may say: Testosterone, total

Testosterone supports muscle, energy, libido and bone in men, and is present in smaller amounts in women. In women, high levels are a common feature of PCOS.

Updated 2026-10-26

Typical ranges · ng/dL

Men

Low below 264
In range 264–916
High 916+

Women

Low below 15
In range 15–70
High 70+

nmol/L = ng/dL × 0.0347

Levels peak in the morning; test before 10 am. Low results should be confirmed with a repeat.

Ranges vary by lab, age and sex. The range printed on your report applies.

If it's low

In men, low testosterone can cause tiredness, low libido and muscle loss.

Common causes

  • Excess weight
  • Poor sleep or sleep apnoea
  • Ageing
  • Some medicines
  • Very low vitamin D or zinc (contributes)

What you might notice

  • Low libido
  • Tiredness
  • Low mood
  • Loss of muscle

If it's high

In women, high testosterone is common with PCOS. In men, it usually comes from hormone use.

Common causes

  • PCOS (women)
  • Testosterone or steroid use
  • Rare hormone conditions

What you might notice

  • Acne
  • Excess hair growth (women)
  • Irregular periods (women)

Testing

Who should test
Men with low libido or energy; women with irregular periods, acne or excess hair.
How to prepare
Morning sample before 10 am; avoid heavy exercise the day before.
When to retest
Repeat once to confirm a low result.

What can help

SYNC doesn't change your plan from this result alone. Use these only alongside your doctor's advice.

Food sources

Adequate proteinZinc-rich foodsHealthy fats

See a doctor about low results in men or high results in women.

Common questions

Can supplements replace testosterone therapy?

No; they may help only when a nutrient is low.

Why test in the morning?

Levels can drop 20–30% later in the day.

Explore further

Sources

  1. MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine): Testosterone levels test

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For general education only, not medical advice. Ranges shown are typical for adults; the range printed on your lab report applies. Talk to a qualified doctor about your results.