SHBG Hormone Test

Test ID: B-201

The Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) Test is designed to test for Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG), accurately assessing SHBG levels in the blood.

Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) binds and transports both testosterone and estrogens in the bloodstream, and it therefore regulates the relative amounts of free and bound hormones and, consequently, their bioavailability to target tissues. SHBG is a protein produced by the liver in response to exposure to any estrogen. Testosterone binds about three times more tightly to SHBG than does estradiol, so this increase in SHBG as a result of estrogen exposure causes the relative proportion of bioavailable testosterone to estradiol to decrease even further, exacerbating the symptoms of testosterone deficiency. Many factors, in addition to estrogen exposure, can affect SHBG levels. For example, thyroid hormone increases SHBG production, whereas insulin decreases SHBG levels. In young men, testosterone levels are usually high and SHBG low, making most of the testosterone bioavailable. However, as men gain weight and estrogen levels increase, SHBG also rises, decreasing bioavailable testosterone. Measuring SHBG in the blood provides an indication of the overall exposure to estrogens, as well as the bioavailable (free) fraction of testosterone (calculated from the ratio of testosterone to SHBG).

Low SHBG levels:

• Excessive body hair/male-pattern hair growth (hirsutism)
• Acne
• Dandruff
• Baldness
• Voice deepening
• Increased muscle mass
• Reduced breast size
• Irregular or absent periods

This test evaluates whether the concentration of SHBG affects the amount of testosterone available to the body's tissues.

We strongly recommend that you consult your test results with your health care provider, GP, or doctor to know whether or not any further actions need to be carried out and get started with ample treatment if needed.

Test Result: You will receive your test result 3-5 working days after the laboratory receives your sample. You will see your hormone levels in graphics and numbers on your test result. You will also see laboratory comments by a Hormone Specialist PhD Dr in the comments: you will find an analysis of your hormone levels and what to do next.

• Collect samples from the comfort of your home and post them to our lab.
• The test must be used within 12 months after the purchase date.
• The test kit includes a laboratory fee: no additional laboratory cost and tax.
• Customers are responsible for shipping their samples to the laboratory.

How does the test carry out?

This blood spot-based testing tool can be done in the privacy of your home. A simple step of collecting your blood spot for the test is required. Once you provide a blood spot, you need to seal the sample and send it off to us. Your test result report will be emailed to you between 3 and 5 working days after the laboratory receives your sample.

Why We Partner with ZRT Laboratory

At Hormone Lab UK, all laboratory testing is performed by ZRT Laboratory, a globally recognised CLIA-certified diagnostic and research laboratory specialising in hormone and functional health testing since 1998. Founded by renowned biochemist and breast cancer researcher Dr. David Zava, PhD, ZRT is internationally respected for its scientific innovation, accuracy, and commitment to personalised healthcare.

With more than 11 million tests performed and healthcare professionals in over 96 countries relying on its expertise, ZRT provides advanced testing for hormones, thyroid, fertility, adrenal function, neurotransmitters, cardiometabolic health, vitamin D, heavy metals, and wellness assessments.

ZRT pioneered at-home saliva hormone testing, was the first laboratory to commercialise dried blood spot (DBS) hormone testing, and developed Dried Urine Testing (DUTS), helping make advanced laboratory diagnostics more convenient and accessible.

Using advanced LC-MS/MS and ICP-MS technology, combined with rigorous quality standards, ZRT delivers highly accurate and clinically reliable results. The laboratory's commitment to research, personalised reference ranges, and quality assurance—including qualification for the CDC Hormone Standardization (HoSt) Program for testosterone and estradiol testing—has established ZRT as one of the world's most trusted names in hormone and wellness diagnostics.

Through our partnership with ZRT Laboratory, Hormone Lab UK provides customers across the UK and Europe with access to internationally recognised, research-backed laboratory testing designed to support better health decisions.

How to Use