Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)
How to prepare
You can eat and drink normally before the test.
No special preparation needed.
Tell our phlebotomist about any medicines you take. Don't stop them without asking your doctor.
Wear a loose sleeve so the sample can be taken easily from your arm.
How it works
About this test
SHBG is a protein that carries sex hormones (testosterone and oestrogen) in the blood. Its level changes how much hormone is free and active.
Why is this test done?
- Interpret testosterone results
- Investigate PCOS or excess hair
- Investigate low sex drive in men
Symptoms — when should you get tested?
- Irregular periods or excess hair in women
- Low energy or libido in men
- Acne
Normal range
Reference ranges differ slightly between labs, methods, age and sex. Always discuss your report with your doctor.
If your result is high
High SHBG lowers free testosterone.
Common reasons- Hyperthyroidism
- Liver disease
- Birth control pills or pregnancy
- Ageing in men
If your result is low
Low SHBG raises free testosterone.
Common reasons- PCOS
- Obesity and insulin resistance
- Hypothyroidism
- Steroid use
How is the test done?
- 1Book online
Choose your slot for home collection or a visit to our centre.
- 2Blood sample taken
A trained phlebotomist takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm with a sealed, single-use needle. It takes about 2 minutes.
- 3Tested in our lab
Your barcoded sample is tested on automated machines with strict quality checks.
- 4Report on WhatsApp
A pathologist checks the result and the report reaches you on WhatsApp and email.
Frequently asked questions
No fasting is needed for this test. You can eat and drink normally.
Your report is usually ready in 24-48 hrs after the sample reaches our lab. We send it on WhatsApp and email, and you can also download it from the Reports page.
Please call our team to confirm whether home sample collection is available for your location and test.
This test needs a blood sample. No special preparation needed.