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Sex Hormone Binding Globuline (SHBG) Test
SHBG Test, Testosterone-oestrogen Binding Globulin Test, TeBG Test
- SummaryThe Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) Test measures the level of SHBG in the blood, a protein that binds to sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen. It helps evaluate hormone balance and is often recommended in cases of infertility, irregular periods, or symptoms of hormone disorders. The test uses a blood sample, requires no fasting, and is suitable for all genders as advised by a doctor.Read more
- Reports Within23 HrsView Sample Report100% NABL & ISO Certified Labs
- SampleBlood
- AgeAll Age Group
- GenderMale and Female
- FastingNot Required
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A quick info on Sex Hormone Binding Globuline (SHBG) Test
Overview
The sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) test, also known as the SHBG blood test, or testosterone-oestrogen binding globulin (TeBG) test, is a blood test that measures the level of SHBG, a protein produced mainly by the liver.
SHBG attaches to sex hormones such as testosterone and oestrogen in the blood and helps regulate how much of these hormones remain active and available for the body's tissues to use. Hormones that are attached to SHBG are called bound hormones, while hormones that are not attached are called free hormones and are available to act on body tissues.
This test helps doctors estimate the amount of free, active testosterone in the body and understand whether hormone-related symptoms may be linked to abnormal testosterone activity. It is often requested together with a testosterone test when hormone levels do not match a person's symptoms.
The SHBG test may also support the evaluation of hormone-related conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It mainly helps assess hormone balance, reproductive health, and conditions that can affect sex hormone activity in the body.
When and Who Should Get a Sex Hormone Binding Globuline (SHBG) Test Done?
A doctor may recommend an SHBG blood test when a person has symptoms that could be related to abnormal sex hormone activity or hormone imbalance disorders such as:
- Low sex drive or reduced interest in sexual activity in adults
- Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection in men
- Problems with fertility in men or women
- Irregular or absent menstrual periods in women
- Acne that may be related to hormone imbalance
- Excess facial or body hair growth in women
- Symptoms that may suggest low testosterone levels in adult men
- Symptoms that may suggest high testosterone levels in adult women
Some people may also need this test because they are more likely to have conditions that affect hormone levels, including:
- Women being evaluated for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) as part of a hormone assessment
- People receiving treatment for hormonal disorders and requiring monitoring of treatment response
- Children being investigated for signs of unusually early puberty
- Individuals whose testosterone test results do not match their symptoms and require further hormone evaluation
- People undergoing testing for hormone-related conditions where calculation of the free androgen index (FAI) may be helpful
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How Frequently Should You Take the Sex Hormone Binding Globuline (SHBG) Test?
The SHBG test is not usually performed as part of routine health screening. Doctors generally recommend it when investigating hormone-related symptoms, abnormal testosterone levels, fertility concerns, or conditions such as PCOS.
|
Health scenario |
Context |
Recommended frequency |
|---|---|---|
|
Symptoms of hormone imbalance |
When symptoms suggest abnormal testosterone activity. |
Usually performed during the initial medical evaluation and repeated if advised by the doctor. |
|
Investigation of abnormal testosterone levels |
Used when testosterone test results do not fully explain a person's symptoms. |
Performed when clinically needed, often alongside testosterone testing. |
|
Evaluation of SHBG in PCOS |
Helps assess hormone balance in women with suspected PCOS. |
Usually done during diagnosis and repeated only if clinically indicated; treatment monitoring is required. |
|
Monitoring PCOS treatment |
Used to assess hormone changes during treatment with combined oral contraceptives. |
A repeat test may be considered during follow-up if clinically indicated, as advised by the treating doctor, to evaluate changes in SHBG levels. |
|
Fertility assessment |
May be included as part of hormone testing for fertility problems in men and women. |
Frequency depends on clinical findings and the doctor's recommendation. |
|
Early puberty evaluation |
Used when a child shows signs of puberty earlier than expected. |
Performed when clinically indicated and repeated if monitoring is required. |
What Conditions Can a Sex Hormone Binding Globuline (SHBG) Test Help Detect?
The SHBG test helps doctors understand how much active testosterone is available in the body and may help in the evaluation of several hormone-related conditions, such as:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Low SHBG levels may be seen in women with PCOS (a condition that can affect menstrual periods, fertility, and hormone balance in women) and can help doctors assess hormone imbalance when reviewed with other test results.
- Conditions related to low testosterone in men: SHBG testing may help investigate symptoms such as low sex drive, erection difficulties, reduced muscle mass, and fertility problems when testosterone results are unclear.
- Conditions related to high testosterone in women: SHBG testing may help evaluate symptoms related to excess androgens (male sex hormones) in women, such as excess facial or body hair, acne, voice deepening, irregular periods, and fertility problems.
- Hormone imbalance disorders: The SHBG test, together with testosterone and other hormone tests, may help doctors assess conditions related to abnormal sex hormone activity.
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Sex Hormone Binding Globuline (SHBG) Test Preparation
What to Expect Before the Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) Test
No fasting is required for a standalone Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) test. You can eat and drink normally. However, if it is part of a broader package that includes fasting tests, your doctor may advise fasting for 8-12 hours. Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours before the test, as intense physical activity can temporarily raise Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) levels and affect interpretation. Always inform your doctor about any ongoing medications.
What to Expect During the Blood Collection
A phlebotomist cleans the skin with an antiseptic, then places an elastic band around your upper arm to make the veins easier to access. A small needle is inserted into the vein; you may feel a brief pinch. Blood is collected into a labelled tube in under a minute.
What to Expect After the Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) Test
A small cotton swab and bandage are placed over the site to stop any minor bleeding. You can return to normal activities immediately. Minor bruising is normal and disappears quickly. If dizzy, sit and rest for a few minutes.
What are the Parameters Included in a Sex Hormone Binding Globuline (SHBG) Test?
This test measures one important parameter:
- Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG): SHBG is a protein produced mainly by the liver that binds to sex hormones in the blood and helps regulate the amount of active hormone available to the body's tissues.
Normal Range of Sex Hormone Binding Globuline (SHBG) Test Parameters
Normal sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels may vary depending on sex, age, physiological status, and laboratory methodology. The reference ranges below are commonly used for the interpretation of SHBG blood test results:
|
Sex |
Reference range (nmol/L) |
|---|---|
|
Male |
10–57 |
|
Female (non-pregnant) |
18–144 |
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Sex Hormone Binding Globuline (SHBG) Test Result Interpretation
The interpretation of SHBG test results depends on whether SHBG levels are higher or lower than the normal range. Doctors usually look at SHBG results along with testosterone and other hormone tests to understand hormone balance better.
|
SHBG result |
Interpretation |
|---|---|
|
Low SHBG |
Low SHBG means more testosterone is available for the body to use. This may be seen in people who are overweight, have problems controlling blood sugar (such as type 2 diabetes), have an underactive thyroid gland, have PCOS (a condition that can cause irregular periods and excess hair growth in women), use steroid medicines, or have Cushing's syndrome (a condition caused by high levels of the stress hormone cortisol). |
|
High SHBG |
High SHBG means less testosterone is available for the body to use. This may be linked to liver problems, an overactive thyroid gland, eating disorders, medicines containing oestrogen, reduced production of sex hormones in men, or pregnancy. |
|
SHBG measured with testosterone |
Doctors often check SHBG and testosterone together. This helps them estimate how much testosterone is active and available for the body to use, especially in women being tested for hormone-related conditions. |
Sex Hormone Binding Globuline (SHBG) Test Risks and Limitations
The SHBG test is generally safe; however, it has a few minor risks and limitations.
Possible Risks of the Test:
This test carries very little risk. Some people may experience mild pain or slight bruising where the needle was inserted to collect the sample, but these effects usually disappear within a short time.
Limitations of the Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) Test:
- Hormone-containing medicines, including oestrogen therapy, birth control pills, and anabolic steroids, may alter SHBG levels and affect test results.
- SHBG concentrations can vary according to a person's age and sex, which may influence result interpretation.
- Testosterone and oestradiol levels can affect the amount of SHBG present in the blood.
- Certain medical conditions, particularly liver and thyroid disorders, may influence SHBG levels.
Related and Follow-up Tests
Along with the sex binding globulin hormone test, doctors may recommend the following tests to help evaluate hormone balance and investigate conditions associated with abnormal SHBG levels:
Sex Hormone Binding Globuline (SHBG) Test Sample Collection: Home vs. Diagnostic Lab
|
Feature |
Home Collection (PharmEasy) |
Traditional Diagnostic Lab |
|---|---|---|
|
Convenience |
High - sample taken from your home or office. |
Low - requires travelling and waiting in queues. |
|
Time Saving |
Maximum - no travel time. You pick the time slot. |
Minimum - depends on traffic and lab rush. |
|
Safety & Comfort |
Safe - avoids exposure to other sick patients. |
Moderate - exposure to crowded waiting areas. |
|
Process |
A professional phlebotomist visits you. |
You must visit the facility during its hours. |
|
Report Access |
Digital - sent directly to your app or email. |
Often requires a second visit for physical copies. |
Pro Tip: For the most stress-free experience, book a Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) test on PharmEasy. Enjoy professional service and accurate results without stepping out of your house.
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