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[Noheroicsplease]

So, I recently contacted my GP about adding testosterone into the mix. I already take 50 Evorel patch and 100mg Utrogestan daily.

She was happy to do this, sent me for blood tests.

Results:

Serum free testosterone
Serum albumin level 45g/l (35.0-52.0)
Serum testosterone level 0.6nmol/L (0.101-1.42)
Serum sex hormone binding globulin level 109nmol/L (17.3-125.0)
Serum free testosterone level 5 pmol/L (1.0-20.0)

Based on these, the notes say no further action is required. They are satisfactory.

I don't know much about testosterone, but I do find traditionally that the normal ranges - in the above brackets - are pretty wide for regular tests via the GP.

Should I accept no action or push for it still?

[Wrensong]

Hi NHP, your free T is quite low & your SHBG fairly high.  If you have symptoms of low T & want a trial of treatment for them I would speak again to your GP or ask for a menopause clinic referral.  Sorry to say this, but going private may be quicker if within your means.  Couple of links here that may be helpful if you've not seen them before.  There are also some good podcasts on the Newson Health/Balance website if you want to know how significant & wide ranging T's effects are thought to be.
Wx

https://thebms.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/08-BMS-TfC-Testosterone-replacement-in-menopause-DEC2022-A.pdf

https://balance-menopause.com/uploads/2022/01/Testosterone.pdf

[Noheroicsplease]

Thanks Wrensong.

What does it mean that one level is low, another is high?

Thanks

[Wrensong]

High levels of SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin) can tie up testosterone, meaning less is available for use within our tissues, possibly resulting in symptoms of low T.  Your lowish free testosterone result ties in with the highish SHBG.  Oestrogen replacement among other things is one factor that can increase SHBG.
Wx

https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/shbg-blood-test/

[Noheroicsplease]

Thanks a lot, J

[Wrensong]

Hope you make progress.