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DNA Labs India

Testosterone & Sex Hormone Binding Globulin Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Testosterone & Sex Hormone Binding Globulin Test

Short Name: Testosterone & SHBG

Also known as: Testosterone & SHBG Test, Total Testosterone with SHBG, Androgen Profile with SHBG

Testosterone & Sex Hormone Binding Globulin Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹4,680. Uses Radioimmunoassay, CLIA on Serum samples. Results in Reports are usually released on the same day if the sample reaches the laboratory by 9 am on Monday or Thursday.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

EndocrinologistAll ages (reference values vary by age and sex)🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

The purpose of this test is to measure testosterone and SHBG levels in serum. It helps diagnose low testosterone states, monitor testosterone replacement therapy, and investigate SHBG abnormalities. It is also useful in the evaluation of female hyperandrogenism, hirsutism, menstrual disturbances and infertility.

Test Code
3686
Price
₹4,680
Sample Type
Serum
Result Time
Reports are usually released on the same day if the sample reaches the laboratory by 9 am on Monday or Thursday.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Radioimmunoassay, CLIA
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation is required. Inform your doctor about any current medicines, supplements or existing medical conditions.

Method: Venipuncture

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A trained phlebotomist will collect about 3 mL of blood from a vein in your arm using a Serum Separator Tube (SST). The process is quick and minimal.

Step 3

Report Delivery

You may leave immediately after sample collection and continue daily activities. The puncture site may be slightly tender for a short period.

Timeline: Reports are usually released on the same day if the sample reaches the laboratory by 9 am on Monday or Thursday.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No special preparation is required. Continue your regular medicines unless your doctor advises otherwise. Inform the phlebotomist if you have a bleeding disorder or are on blood thinners.
2
During the Test:A tourniquet may be applied to your arm. The phlebotomist will clean the area and draw blood into an SST. The process takes a few minutes.
3
After the Test:You can leave immediately after the sample collection. Keep light pressure on the puncture site for a minute if any bleeding occurs.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The purpose of this test is to measure testosterone and SHBG levels in serum. It helps diagnose low testosterone states, monitor testosterone replacement therapy, and investigate SHBG abnormalities. It is also useful in the evaluation of female hyperandrogenism, hirsutism, menstrual disturbances and infertility.

How to Prepare

  • Specify age and sex on the test request form.
  • Use Serum Separator Tube (SST) for sample collection.
  • Ship the sample refrigerated or frozen after collection.
  • No special preparation or fasting is required.

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Biochemistry) · Reg. No. 21504

"In my practice, this combination is especially helpful when total testosterone appears normal but the patient has symptoms of androgen deficiency, because SHBG can skew the free testosterone available to tissues."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeSerum
Sample Volume3 mL (1.5 mL min.) serum from 1 SST
Container1 SST (Serum Separator Tube)
Collection MethodVenipuncture

Sample Stability

Room Temperature (20–25°C)
Refrigerated (2–8°C)
Frozen (-20°C)
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Specimen not labeled with age and sex
  • Hemolyzed or lipemic sample
  • Sample received without matching request form
  • Sample stored at room temperature beyond the acceptable period

Understanding Your Results

The results should be interpreted by a doctor who knows your clinical history. In general, SHBG affects how much testosterone is free and biologically available. If total testosterone is normal but SHBG is high, free testosterone may be low. If SHBG is low, total testosterone may understate the active hormone level.
📊

Low total testosterone

📊

High SHBG

📊

Low SHBG

📊

High total testosterone / free testosterone in women

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

If you are having persistent symptoms of low testosterone, metabolic changes, sexual dysfunction, or unusual hair growth, please consult an endocrinologist or urologist. Do not start any hormone treatment based only on an online report.

Limitations

  • Reference ranges vary between laboratories and assay methods.
  • A single testosterone measurement may not reflect the average level due to biological variation.
  • Calculated free testosterone depends on albumin concentration and may not be accurate in all clinical settings.
  • Results should always be interpreted with clinical history and physical examination.

Risks & Considerations

  • Mild pain or soreness at the needle site
  • Small bruising
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness during or after blood draw
  • Very rare infection or prolonged bleeding

Interfering Factors

  • Testosterone levels have diurnal variation; morning sampling is usually preferred.
  • Age and sex affect reference values and interpretation.
  • Obesity, insulin resistance, liver disease and thyroid disease can alter SHBG levels.
  • Medications such as estrogens, androgens, glucocorticoids, anticonvulsants and oral contraceptives can affect SHBG and testosterone.
  • Pregnancy can increase SHBG levels in women.

Compare With Similar Tests

TestTestosterone & Sex Hormone Binding Globulin Test
ComparisonTestosterone & Sex Hormone Binding Globulin Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Testosterone & Sex Hormone Binding Globulin Test?
It is a blood test that measures testosterone and SHBG levels. SHBG is a protein made in the liver that binds testosterone and other sex hormones, affecting how much free, active testosterone is available in the blood.
Why is this test ordered?
It is used to evaluate symptoms of low testosterone, erectile dysfunction, low sex drive, infertility, or signs of androgen excess in women such as hirsutism. It also helps when SHBG disturbances are suspected, such as in obesity or estrogen excess.
Do I need fasting for this test?
No. As per the test information, no special preparation or fasting is required.
How is the sample collected?
A blood sample is collected by venipuncture into a Serum Separator Tube (SST). About 3 mL (1.5 mL minimum) of blood is needed.
What is the cost of the Testosterone & SHBG Test in India?
The price is INR 4680. DNA Labs India provides free home sample collection for online bookings at this special discounted price.
Is home sample collection available?
Yes, free home sample collection is available for online bookings in more than 300 cities across India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune, and others. However, please confirm service availability during booking.
When will I get the report?
If the sample is submitted by 9 am on Monday or Thursday, the report is generally available the same day.
Does the test measure free testosterone?
The test measures testosterone and SHBG. Measurement of free testosterone may also be included or calculated when SHBG is abnormal, especially in conditions such as obesity and estrogen excess.
What are the symptoms of low testosterone?
Common symptoms include decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, loss of muscle mass, increased body fat, decreased bone density, fatigue, and depression.
What can affect SHBG levels?
SHBG can be affected by age, sex, liver disease, thyroid disease, obesity, insulin resistance, and medications such as estrogens, androgens, or glucocorticoids.
Is this test covered by insurance?
The test is generally covered by health insurance when prescribed by a doctor, but coverage depends on your policy. Please check with your insurance provider to confirm.
What should I do if my results are abnormal?
Please discuss the report with your treating doctor or consult an endocrinologist. The results need to be interpreted along with your symptoms, clinical history, and other hormone tests.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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