Good to knowOne result rarely tells the whole story. Your provider looks at your results together with your symptoms, exam, and other tests.
What the test is
It's used to calculate free testosterone.
Why it's done
- Borderline testosterone results
- Signs of high male hormones in women
Getting ready and what happens
- Morning testing with testosterone.
How the test is done
- A health worker cleans the skin, puts a band around your arm, and draws blood from a vein with a small needle. It takes a few minutes.
What the results mean
High SHBG
Less free testosterone available; seen with aging, liver disease, and overactive thyroid.
Low SHBG
Seen with obesity, insulin resistance, PCOS, and an underactive thyroid.
Questions to ask your provider
- What do my results mean for me?
- Do I need to repeat this test or have other tests?
Risks
A blood draw is very safe. You may have slight pain or a small bruise where the needle went in.
Related conditions
Related tests
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.