At IGML, blood tests are used to confirm whether a genuine testosterone deficiency may be present, rule out other medical causes of symptoms, and ensure that any treatment pathway is safe and clinically appropriate.
Testing is only recommended after an initial consultation, and pathology results are reviewed by our Australian registered doctor. Our testing protocols are outlined by Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and the Endocrine Society of Australia (ESA)
Symptoms such as fatigue, low mood, reduced libido, or loss of strength can have many possible causes, including lifestyle factors, stress, sleep issues, or underlying health conditions.
Blood tests help:
Objectively assess testosterone levels
Distinguish between normal variation and clinical deficiency
Identify potential health risks before treatment is considered
Establish a baseline for safe monitoring over time
As part of testosterone and hormone assessment, IGML may recommend testing for:
Total Testosterone: Measures the total amount of testosterone in the bloodstream. This is a key marker used to assess overall testosterone levels.
Free Testosterone: Measures the portion of testosterone that is biologically available for use by the body. Free testosterone can be particularly relevant when symptoms are present despite “normal” total testosterone levels.
PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen): PSA testing helps assess prostate health and is an important safety measure when evaluating testosterone-related concerns, particularly in men over 40.
We check your levels before beginning any treatment to find a baseline and confirm what treatment options are available for you.
If eligible, we continue to monitor your levels and require a blood test every 6 months to keep an eye on how your body responds to treatment.
Blood tests are not automatically ordered.
They are recommended only if appropriate, based on:
This ensures testing is targeted, relevant, and medically justified.
Once your results are available:
Treatment is never based on a single test alone.
Once your results are available, we send them to our TRT doctor or clinic as soon as possible. Our clinicians will review your hormone levels and safety markers before confirming whether Testosterone Replacement Therapy is suitable for you.
Yes. A review consultation is essential. During this appointment, our doctor will explain your results, assess your symptoms, confirm your eligibility for TRT, and outline next steps in your treatment plan.
TRT can only be prescribed after a doctor has assessed both your symptoms and your blood test results. This ensures treatment is medically appropriate, safe, and aligned with Australian guidelines for managing low testosterone.
If your results are borderline, your doctor may request repeat morning testing or additional hormone investigations (such as SHBG, LH/FSH, prolactin, or thyroid panels) to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes.
If your results don’t meet the criteria for TRT, your clinician may:
Not all symptoms associated with low testosterone are caused by testosterone deficiency.
Absolutely. Your initial tests become your baseline, used to track your progress and safety if you begin TRT. These figures are important for all future reviews and adjustments.
Sometimes, yes. If any markers are abnormal — such as high haematocrit, elevated prolactin, liver or kidney issues, or prostate concerns. Your doctor may require additional testing before providing clearance for TRT.
We can confirm eligibility shortly after reviewing your results, typically during your follow-up appointment. Approval is based on both clinical symptoms and pathology findings.
Your IGML doctor will discuss:
The steps you complete after pathology testing ensure that TRT is:
Proper review protects your long-term health and ensures the treatment delivers real, measurable benefits.
Book your free consultation to find out whether blood testing may be appropriate for you.
Important information: Blood tests alone do not diagnose medical conditions. Any treatment decisions, including testosterone therapy, are made only after appropriate clinical assessment by an Australian-registered doctor.
