What is Free Testosterone?
Testosterone is vital for both men and women. It plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including muscle mass development, bone density maintenance, and sex drive regulation. Testosterone is found in the body in two main forms: bound and free. Though both are vital to distinguish from, we’re addressing the widely asked question, what is free testosterone?
What Is Free Testosterone and Why is It Important?
Free testosterone, also known as unbound T, is not bound to the proteins in the bloodstream. This allows testosterone to be readily available for use by the body’s tissues and cells. It is the only active form of testosterone that exerts its effect on the body.
Free testosterone is crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being, as it is responsible for a range of functions such as promoting muscle growth, regulating libido, influencing mood, and supporting overall energy levels. In men, free testosterone can influence muscle building, facial hair development, deeper voice, and metabolism – all of which play an important role in everyday life.
What Are Free Testosterone Levels?
Free testosterone levels represent the amount of unbound testosterone circulating in the bloodstream, readily available for the body’s use. When asking what is free testosterone, it is also important to question what are free testosterone levels that indicate an adequate amount of free testosterone.
Free testosterone levels can vary from person to person and are influenced by various factors, including age, sex, overall health, and lifestyle choices. Though free testosterone levels are personal, symptoms of low or deficiency in free testosterone are evident. These common symptoms include:
Reduced libido
Fatigue or decreased energy levels
Decreased bone density
Loss of muscle mass or strength
Hair loss or thinning
Free Testosterone vs. Total Testosterone
Total testosterone refers to the overall amount of testosterone in the body, including both free testosterone and testosterone bound to proteins. While total testosterone levels provide valuable information about overall testosterone production, it is the free testosterone that is more indicative of the hormone’s bioavailability and physiological effects.
The ratio of free and total testosterone is an insightful measure of testosterone production as its actively available.
What Is a Testosterone Levels Test?
Whether you’re concerned or curious about what is free testosterone, a testosterone level test is an insightful tool for measuring the number of testosterone levels in the body. It can help provide valuable information about hormone balance and help identify any potential issues or imbalances.
During the test, blood is drawn from the individual and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results will indicate the total testosterone levels and the amount of free testosterone present in the bloodstream.
Testosterone Blood Test in Charlotte, NC
Testing testosterone involves a simple blood test. This blood test is done by drawing a small sample of blood from a vein in the arm. The collected blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis, where the levels of total testosterone and free testosterone will be measured.
At Revita Medical, our experienced team specializes in hormone testing and replacement. If you’re concerned about free testosterone or would like to get ahead of deficiency, get in touch with our team to learn more about our wellness plans concerning testosterone.
