Sample collection is similar to any blood test and may cause only slight discomfort.

What Can Affect the Test Results?

Factors such as age, sex, other medications, and health conditions like obesity or diabetes may influence results.

Is the Test Used Only to Evaluate SHBG?

While the focus is on SHBG, it can also help assess levels of other sex hormones.

How Are the Results Interpreted?

Results should be interpreted by a physician, as normal levels vary based on sex, age, and health status.

Medical Laboratories

Check Your Sex Hormone Balance

Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) Test

This test measures the protein that regulates sex hormones, helping diagnose fertility issues and PCOS. It provides a clear understanding of active testosterone levels to support overall reproductive health.

Trusted medical contentUpdated: 25-04-2026Views: 56LHL-680

About this service

The Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) test in serum is an important test used to assess the balance of sex hormones in the body. This test measures the amount of protein that binds to hormones such as testosterone and estrogen, helping to understand the levels of these active hormones. SHBG levels are influenced by several factors, including age, sex, weight, and health conditions such as obesity or diabetes. This test is useful in diagnosing a range of medical conditions, such as endocrine disorders or fertility issues, and is also used to evaluate the effectiveness of hormone therapies. The SHBG test helps doctors make informed decisions regarding treatment plans and monitor any changes in patients’ health status.

Purpose Test

Active Sex Hormone Levels: Helps determine the amount of hormones such as testosterone and estrogen available to the body.
Hormonal Balance: Reveals any existing imbalances, such as elevated or low SHBG levels, which may indicate health issues.
Endocrine Disorders: Can assist in diagnosing conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or hypothyroidism.
Fertility Issues: Used to evaluate hormone levels in individuals experiencing difficulty conceiving.
Changes Due to Obesity or Diabetes: Shows how these conditions can affect hormone levels in the body.
Effectiveness of Hormonal Treatments: Can help monitor the body’s response to hormone therapy or other treatments.

Recommended groups

Women with Hormonal Symptoms: Such as menstrual irregularities or fertility issues.
Men Experiencing Low Libido or Erectile Dysfunction: To determine if hormonal imbalances are present.
Individuals with Obesity or Diabetes: To assess the impact of these conditions on hormone levels.
People with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): For diagnosis and evaluation of hormonal status.
Patients Undergoing Hormonal Treatments: To monitor treatment effectiveness and adjust dosages.
Individuals with Endocrine Disorders: To evaluate overall hormone levels.

Symptoms indicative

Menstrual Irregularities: Irregular changes or absence of periods in women.
Fertility Issues: Difficulty conceiving or recurrent miscarriages.
Low Sexual Desire: Reduced interest in sex or erectile dysfunction in men.
Unexplained Weight Gain: Especially if associated with increased abdominal fat.
Signs of Hirsutism: Such as increased facial or body hair in women.
Symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Such as acne or other skin issues.
Excessive Fatigue or Depression: May indicate hormonal imbalances.
Mood Changes: Severe fluctuations that may be linked to hormone levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Short answers to the FAQs published with this service.

What is the Purpose of SHBG Analysis?

It aims to measure the levels of the protein that binds sex hormones, helping to assess hormonal balance in the body.

How is the Analysis Performed?

A blood sample is drawn and sent to the laboratory for analysis.

Does the Test Require Special Preparations?

Usually not, but avoiding certain medications before the test may be advised, so it is important to consult a physician.

How Long Does It Take to Get the Results?

Results are typically available within a few days, though this may vary depending on the laboratory.

Check Your Sex Hormone Balance

About this service

Purpose Test

Recommended groups

Symptoms indicative

Normal Levels

What is included?

Conditions and notices

Frequently Asked Questions

References and additional resources

Scientific references

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