SHBG blood test

Explanation

SHBG is a protein that carries sex hormones, including testosterone, in the blood. Its full name is sex hormone binding globulin. Measuring SHBG can help explain a testosterone result.

Why is it measured with testosterone?

A total testosterone test includes both testosterone attached to proteins and testosterone that is free. SHBG helps estimate how much is free and available to tissues. The SHBG test itself measures the binding protein, not free testosterone directly.

A high or low SHBG result does not by itself show whether you have too much or too little testosterone. The testosterone level and symptoms also matter.

What can affect the result?

Liver and thyroid conditions, hormone medicines and other factors can change SHBG. Tell the clinician which medicines you take. Use the reference range on your own report, and ask how SHBG changes the interpretation of your testosterone result.

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