Test ID: B-240M | Sample Type: Dried Blood Spot | Test Method: LC-MS/MS | Results: 3–5 Working Days | Laboratory: ZRT Laboratory – CLIA Certified | Report: Specialist Doctor Comment Included | Suitable For: Men | Collect Sample At Home: No Clinic Visit Required
What This Test Measures
Four core sex hormone markers using highly accurate LC-MS/MS technology:
- Testosterone (T) — the primary male sex hormone; critical for energy, muscle mass, libido, mood, and metabolic health
- Estradiol (E2) — men produce estradiol too; elevated E2 is linked to low libido, fat gain, and mood issues
- Progesterone (Pg) — supports testosterone production and counteracts oestrogen dominance in men
- SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) — determines how much testosterone is biologically available; high SHBG can cause low-testosterone symptoms even when total testosterone appears normal
Who Should Consider This Test?
- Symptoms of low testosterone — fatigue, low libido, muscle loss, brain fog
- Suspected andropause or age-related hormonal decline
- Signs of elevated estradiol — gynaecomastia, abdominal fat, water retention
- Normal standard blood tests but persistent hormonal symptoms
- Monitoring hormone levels during or after TRT or other hormone therapy
- Understanding why free testosterone availability may be reduced despite normal total testosterone
Could Low Testosterone or Oestrogen Imbalance Be Affecting Your Health?
Testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone don’t operate in isolation in men — they interact constantly, and an imbalance in one affects the others. Symptoms are frequently dismissed as stress or ageing when the root cause may be hormonal. If you recognise any of the following, this panel could reveal what’s really going on:
Symptoms of low testosterone:
- Low libido or erectile dysfunction
- Persistent fatigue and low stamina
- Loss of muscle mass or increased body fat
- Anxiety, depression, or low mood
- Brain fog or forgetfulness
- Dry skin or reduced body hair
Symptoms of elevated estradiol (E2) in men:
- Gynaecomastia (breast tissue growth)
- Increased abdominal fat
- Water retention or bloating
- Mood swings or irritability
- Decreased fertility
- Poor concentration or memory lapses
Symptoms of progesterone imbalance in men:
- Low testosterone (progesterone is a precursor)
- Increased oestrogen dominance
- Mood disturbances, anxiety, or sleep issues
- Decreased libido
Symptoms of SHBG imbalance:
- High SHBG: fatigue, low libido, muscle loss, and depression — even when total testosterone appears normal
- Low SHBG: acne, hair loss, and increased oestrogen conversion
How It Works
- Order your kit — delivered to your door
- Collect your sample at home — a simple finger-prick dried blood spot; no clinic or GP visit needed
- Post your sample to ZRT Laboratory using the return instructions provided
- Receive your results by email within 3–5 working days of the lab receiving your sample
What You Receive
- All four hormone levels displayed clearly in graphics and numbers with male-specific reference ranges
- Written interpretation by a Hormone Specialist PhD Doctor
- Guidance on what your results mean and what to do next
- Laboratory fee included — no hidden charges
Why We Use ZRT Laboratory
All testing is performed by ZRT Laboratory — a globally recognised, CLIA-certified diagnostic laboratory founded in 1998 by Dr. David Zava, PhD. ZRT has performed over 11 million tests and is trusted by healthcare professionals in 96+ countries. ZRT is qualified for the CDC Hormone Standardization (HoSt) Program for testosterone and estradiol, delivering clinical-grade accuracy from a home-collected dried blood spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to collect my sample?
Testosterone follows a diurnal rhythm, peaking in the morning. Collect your sample between 7am and 9am for the most clinically meaningful result. Detailed timing guidance is included with your kit.
Why does estradiol matter for men?
Men convert a small amount of testosterone into estradiol via aromatase. Elevated estradiol — from excess body fat, alcohol, or aromatase overactivity — suppresses testosterone production via negative feedback, drives fat storage, and is associated with gynaecomastia and mood disturbances. Monitoring E2 alongside testosterone is essential for a complete picture.
Does the price include the laboratory fee?
Yes. The full laboratory analysis fee is included. You are only responsible for posting your sample to the laboratory.
How long is the kit valid for?
The kit must be used within 12 months of the purchase date.