What blood tests do I need to start testosterone Therapy?

What Blood Tests Are Needed to Start TRT?

Most doctors will not test for hormone levels and testosterone levels are rarely checked with routine bloodwork . If someone is interested in starting HRT they would need a series of blood tests to evaluate their endocrine health.The specific blood tests that one would need to start testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may vary among healthcare providers and clinics. However, most physicians typically order a series of lab tests from places like Labcorp , including free and total testosterone, estradiol, complete blood count (CBC), comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), and prostate-specific antigen (PSA). 

Studies have shown that TRT will not cause a patient to develop prostate cancer, however its still important to ensure that a patient has normal PSA levels prior to starting TRT to make sure that they don’t already have developed prostate cancer.

These tests are tailored based on an individual’s medical history, health condition, and presenting symptoms. Further investigations, such as MRI or ultrasound scans, may be necessary to identify route cause of androgen deficiency , especially related to issues with the pituitary gland or testes.

Hormone testing serves as a critical tool to evaluate overall health and the functionality of key body systems, including the hypothalamus, pituitary, and testes. Within the scope of TRT, the following blood markers are essential for comprehensive evaluation:

What are some of the blood tests needed to check a patient’s hormone levels?

 

Testosterone Levels

1.    Testosterone Levels: Both total and free testosterone measurements help diagnose hormonal imbalances and assess factors affecting testosterone production. Factors such as diet, exercise, stress, medication, and health conditions can influence testosterone levels. Monitoring these levels over time aids in pinpointing potential causes of andropause.

2.    estrogen levels for men on TRT : Evaluating estrogen levels, specifically estradiol, is crucial to maintaining hormonal balance. Imbalances may lead to symptoms like fatigue or mood swings. It's important to establish baseline values and understand potential influencing factors.

3.    Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test assesses red and white blood cell counts, providing insights into overall health. TRT can impact red blood cell counts, hence monitoring these levels is crucial. Its important to evaluate hematocrit levels when on TRT

4.    Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP): This panel assesses metabolism, electrolyte balance, and organ function. While not directly related to hormone evaluation, it offers a holistic view of health and potential organ-related issues.

5.    Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA): This test gauges prostate health. Elevated PSA levels may indicate inflammation or other concerns, including prostate cancer. It's essential to note that TRT does not cause prostate cancer, but it may accelerate its growth in individuals already diagnosed with the condition.

6.    Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): These hormones assess the function of the pituitary gland and testes. Measuring these levels helps understand if the hypothalamus is appropriately responding to hormone levels in the blood.

 

 

How do I get a prescription for bloodwork to start testosterone therapy?

To order labs from NovaGenix, simply follow these steps:

 

1. Visit our website and navigate to the lab order section.

2. Fill out the necessary information requested in the online form.

3. After submitting your order, you will receive a confirmation call/text or email within 24 hours.

4. We will reach out and collect payment for the labs and then write out a blood requisition form, generated specifically for you which will be emailed or faxed directly to you.

5. You will PRINT THIS OUT and take this lab order to any LAB CORP facility convenient for you. Here is a link to find the Labcorp located closest to you.

6. At the LABCORP draw site, their healthcare professionals will perform a blood draw as required for the specific tests included in your lab order form.

7. Results from the lab tests will be available within a few days to both the patient, and on our provider portal.

8. You will receive the results via email or any other preferred communication method. Once we obtain the results we will schedule a time to review them with Dr. Mackey.

 

By following these simple steps, you can easily order labs from NovaGenix and get your results promptly.

 

Detecting low testosterone or symptoms associated with andropause should prompt men to consider blood testing. Signs may include low iron levels, mood changes, decreased sex drive, fatigue, muscle mass loss, among others.

Obtaining a prescription for TRT-related bloodwork typically involves consulting a healthcare provider followed by an evaluation of the bloodwork.

Certain medications can be used along with testosterone like Enclomiphene, clomid and hCG, which may be needed to maintain fertility or combat unwanted side effects like testicular atrophy. Scheduling an appointment with a primary care physician or an experienced hormone therapy specialist is recommended. During the appointment, discuss symptoms and concerns to determine appropriate blood tests. After the evaluation, personalized treatment decisions can be made based on the test results and professional medical advice prior to starting TRT."