When trans men take testosterone as part of their gender-affirming care, the goal is to reach the same testosterone levels seen in cisgender men. This helps support physical changes, mental wellbeing, and overall health.
Trans men need stable hormone levels just like anyone else. Proper monitoring and adjustments help avoid hormone dips and keep you feeling your best, mentally, emotionally, and physically.
What is the normal testosterone range in cis men?
In cisgender men, normal blood testosterone levels are usually between 12 and 30 nmol/L. 12 is the very lowest that we would consider ‘normal’, and there are plenty of men who find 12 too low for them..
Keeping levels at a healthy range supports things like:
- Energy and mood
- Sex drive
- Muscle strength
- Bone health
- General wellbeing
When to blood test
We usually recommend that you measure testosterone at its lowest point. This is called the trough level. For people using injections, this is just before the next dose is due.
Testing at the trough gives the clearest idea of whether your levels are staying high enough between doses.
What if the level is low?
If the trough level is low, or even the low end of normal, we will suggest shortening the time between doses. This helps prevent dips where testosterone is too low, which can lead to symptoms like tiredness, low mood, or reduced sex drive.
To use the finger prick test, you need to be 16 or older and not taking spironolactone. Vitall, the service provider, will send your blood test results directly to your email address.
If you’re taking spironolactone, you’ll need an intravenous blood sample. You can get this through an online blood test service of your choosing, through your GP if they’re willing to help, or at a private clinic/hospital.
If you need a Blood Test Referral Letter to advise your GP or healthcare provider, you can purchase one through the Treatment Recommendation form for £20 or order it separately here. The letter explains why you need blood tests and which ones you’ll need to get.
When you have your results, please submit them in the Treatment Recommendation form for analysis.