What are Male Health Biomarkers?
Testosterone, Total (male)
This test measures all the testosterone in your blood, including both active (free) and inactive (bound) forms. It’s important for overall health, muscle mass, energy, and sexual function.
Example: Total testosterone is like your full bank account—it includes what you can spend (free) and what’s saved or restricted (bound).
How it’s measured: Blood test measuring the total amount of testosterone.
DHEA-Sulfate (male)
DHEA-S is a hormone made by the adrenal glands that supports testosterone production and male characteristics. It also plays a role in reproductive health and aging.
Example: DHEA-S is like the raw material used to manufacture testosterone and other key male hormones.
How it’s measured: Blood test measuring DHEA-S levels.
Estradiol (E2) (male)
Estradiol is a form of estrogen that also plays a crucial role in male sexual health and hormone balance. It helps regulate libido, erectile function, and sperm production.
Example: Estradiol in men is like a thermostat—it keeps testosterone and sexual function in proper balance.
How it’s measured: Blood test measuring levels of estradiol (a type of estrogen).
Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) (male)
FSH is essential for making sperm and maintaining testicle health. It also gives insight into the health of the pituitary gland.
Example: FSH is like the coach for sperm development—it tells the testes to start training.
How it’s measured: Blood test that measures FSH levels.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH) (male)
LH stimulates the testicles to produce testosterone, which is key for sperm production, sexual function, and male development.
Example: LH is like the green light telling the testes to make more testosterone.
How it’s measured: Blood test that measures LH levels.
Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), Free (male)
Free PSA refers to the portion of PSA not bound to proteins in the blood. While not diagnostic on its own, changes in levels can be an early signal of prostate problems.
Example: Free PSA is like a check engine light—it doesn’t tell you what’s wrong, but it signals something’s off.
How it’s measured: Blood test measuring the amount of unbound PSA.
Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) %, Free (male)
This is the percentage of PSA in your blood that is free (not bound). It helps doctors assess prostate cancer risk and decide if a biopsy is needed.
Example: This is like calculating how much of your PSA is “unrestricted”—lower percentages may raise red flags.
How it’s measured: Calculated by dividing free PSA by total PSA and multiplying by 100.
Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), Total (male)
This measures all the PSA in your blood and is used to monitor prostate health. Elevated PSA levels can signal prostate inflammation, enlargement, or cancer.
Example: Total PSA is like a full-body scan of your prostate’s activity levels.
How it’s measured: Blood test measuring the total PSA level.
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) (male)
SHBG binds to sex hormones (like testosterone) and controls how much is available for the body to use. Changes in SHBG can affect sexual function and fertility.
Example: SHBG is like a hormone gatekeeper—it decides which hormones get to work and which stay locked up.
How it’s measured: Blood test measuring the level of SHBG protein.
Prolactin (male)
Prolactin can influence testosterone levels and sexual function. Elevated levels may contribute to low libido or erectile dysfunction and could point to a pituitary issue.
Example: Prolactin is like a quiet disruptor—when it rises too much, it can throw off other hormones.
How it’s measured: Blood test measuring prolactin levels.
Testosterone, Free (male)
This test checks the active testosterone available to your body. It’s important for assessing fertility, muscle mass, mood, and energy levels.
Example: Free testosterone is like the cash in your wallet—ready to be used right away.
How it’s measured: Blood test measuring free (unbound) testosterone.
