What happens if you have a low testosterone result?

You've just received your blood test results, and they show low testosterone. Naturally, you're wondering what this means and what to do next.

Low testosterone, also known as testosterone deficiency, is common in men as they get older. It can be linked to specific health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes or Klinefelter syndrome, a genetic condition that affects testosterone production.

The most important thing to understand is what to do after your low testosterone result(s). You should know what it means and what options you have.

In this blog, we discuss:

• Testing for low testosterone
• What does a low T result mean?
• What’s an advanced second test?
• How to book a second test
• Understanding testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)
• What to do with a low testosterone result

 

Testing for low testosterone

 

If you suspect low testosterone, the first step is a blood test. 

Testosterone plays a crucial role in health, affecting energy levels, mood, muscle mass, bone density, and even sex drive. If your levels are low, you may experience symptoms such as:

• Brain fog (difficulty concentrating)
• Decreased motivation
• Erectile dysfunction
• Fatigue
• Hair loss
• Increased body fat
• Irritability
• Low libido
• Low mood
• Reduced muscle strength
• Trouble sleeping

At Medichecks, we recommend taking your blood between 6 am and 10 am, when testosterone levels are highest. Fasting is not essential, but avoiding biotin supplements, alcohol, and heavy exercise the day before testing can help ensure reliable results. If you're using hormone gels, then we recommend taking a venous test to avoid contamination risk (which can occur if someone's been in contact with the gel for up to four weeks prior to testing).

 

What does a low T result mean?

 

Testosterone levels can dip for many reasons, including ageing, stress, lifestyle factors, underlying health conditions, or previous anabolic steroid use. In some cases, a low result may be temporary, linked to short-term illness, disrupted sleep, or recent medication use.

However, persistently low testosterone levels, especially when accompanied by symptoms like fatigue, low libido, or mood changes, may point to hypogonadism. Hypogonadism is a medical condition where the body isn’t producing enough testosterone due to issues with the testes or the brain’s hormonal control centres. Hypogonadism can be genetic or develop later in life due to injury, illness, or other health problems.

To tell the difference, it’s important to check whether your low testosterone level is a one-off or part of a consistent pattern. The next step is to book a second advanced test.
 

What’s an advanced second test?

 

A second test to check your testosterone levels is needed about four weeks after your first low testosterone result. This follow-up test helps confirm whether low testosterone is persistent or a temporary fluctuation.

If your results consistently show low testosterone and you’re experiencing symptoms, you might benefit from testosterone therapy.

An advanced venous blood test is recommended, which checks a range of important markers, including:

• A full blood count – to check haematocrit and haemoglobin
• Prolactin – to assess if other hormones are affecting testosterone production
• PSA (prostate-specific antigen) – to monitor prostate health
• Other key markers – to provide a clearer picture of overall health

We now offer TRT through our treatment company, Leger. Our TRT specialists offer expert advice and tailored treatment plans based on your needs. They'll assess your results alongside your symptoms and medical history to look at the possible underlying causes.

 

How to book a second test

 

If you’ve received a low testosterone result with Medichecks or someone else, the next step is to upload your results to Leger. Their expert team will review your test results and advise you on how to book a second blood test. 

After that, Leger will guide you through the process, making sure that you get the appropriate testing and support.

 

Understanding testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)

 

TRT is a medical treatment designed to restore testosterone levels and alleviate symptoms. 

TRT can be administered in various forms, including:

• Gels – Applied daily to the skin, allowing testosterone absorption.
• Injections – Administered at intervals ranging from weekly to every few months, depending on the type.
• Patches – Less common options that provide a steady testosterone dose over time.

Read Leger’s blog, what is TRT for more on this.

TRT can lead to significant improvements in energy, mood, muscle mass, and overall wellbeing. However, it's not a quick fix and requires ongoing monitoring to maintain hormonal balance. 

Potential risks of TRT, particularly in men aged 40 and above, include effects on red blood cell production and prostate health. Although research into risks is still ongoing, doctors will monitor for any signs of prostate cancer or other side effects during treatment. 

 

What to do with a low testosterone result

 

If you’re experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, it’s important you seek expert advice. A good starting point is a Testosterone Blood Test, and if it confirms low testosterone levels, consult with a specialist clinic like Leger for further assessment.

Taking control of your health can significantly improve your quality of life. If you're ready to explore your testosterone levels, book your test today and take the first step toward feeling like yourself again.

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References

• Bhasin, S., et al. (2018). "Testosterone Therapy in Men with Hypogonadism: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline." The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 103(5), 1715–1744. DOI: 10.1210/jc.2018-00229
• Corona, G., et al. (2014). "Low Testosterone Syndrome: A Clinical Perspective." Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 10(5), 273-283. DOI: 10.1038/nrendo.2014.39
• Morgentaler, A., et al. (2015). "Testosterone Therapy and Cardiovascular Risk: Advances and Controversies." Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 90(2), 224-251. DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2014.10.006
• Huo, S., et al. (2016). "Testosterone Therapy and Risk of Venous Thromboembolism: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis." BMJ, 355, i5968. DOI: 10.1136/bmj.i5968
• Khera, M., et al. (2020). "Diagnosis and Treatment of Testosterone Deficiency: Recommendations from the Fourth International Consultation for Sexual Medicine." The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 17(4), 574-588. DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.01.007