Andrology Panel:

LH, FSH, Total Testosterone & Free Testosterone – Details & Precautions

The Andrology Panel includes tests that assess male reproductive health, hormone levels, and fertility. These tests help diagnose hormonal imbalances, infertility, erectile dysfunction, and testosterone-related conditions.

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1. Luteinizing Hormone (LH) Test

Purpose

• Stimulates the production of testosterone in men by acting on the Leydig cells in the testes.
• Helps diagnose hypogonadism (low testosterone levels), infertility, and pituitary gland disorders.

Normal LH Levels (Men)

• 1.24 – 7.8 IU/L

Precautions for LH Test

✅ Fasting is NOT required.
✅ Best tested in the morning (7–10 AM).
✅ Avoid stress, alcohol, and smoking before the test.
✅ Inform the doctor about any hormone medications.

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2. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Test

Purpose

• Essential for sperm production (spermatogenesis).
• Helps diagnose infertility, testicular disorders, and low sperm count (oligospermia).

Normal FSH Levels (Men)

• 1.5 – 12.4 IU/L

Precautions for FSH Test

✅ Fasting is NOT required.
✅ Avoid excessive physical activity before the test.
✅ Best tested in the morning for accurate results.
✅ Inform the doctor about any testosterone therapy or medications.

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3. Total Testosterone Test

Purpose

• Measures overall testosterone levels in the blood.
• Helps diagnose low testosterone (hypogonadism), infertility, erectile dysfunction, and androgen disorders.

Normal Total Testosterone Levels (Men)

• 300 – 1000 ng/dL

Precautions for Total Testosterone Test

✅ Best tested in the morning (7–10 AM) when testosterone levels peak.
✅ Fasting is NOT required.
✅ Avoid heavy workouts and stress before the test.
✅ Inform the doctor if taking testosterone supplements or steroids.

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4. Free Testosterone Test

Purpose

• Measures active testosterone available in the bloodstream.
• Useful in diagnosing hormonal imbalances and symptoms of low testosterone (fatigue, low libido, muscle loss, etc.).

Normal Free Testosterone Levels (Men)

• 4.5 – 21.5 ng/dL

Precautions for Free Testosterone Test

✅ Best tested in the morning (7–10 AM).
✅ Fasting is NOT required.
✅ Avoid stress, alcohol, and smoking before the test.
✅ Inform the doctor about any hormonal medications or supplements.

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Final Notes

• LH & FSH are tested together to evaluate testicular function.
• Testosterone (Total & Free) should be measured in the morning for the most accurate results.
• If low testosterone is detected, further tests like SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin) and DHEA-S may be required.