Sex Hormone Binding Globulin Test

Measures sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), a protein that affects how much testosterone and oestradiol is available to tissues. SHBG is most useful alongside total testosterone and clinical context, not as a stand-alone diagnosis.

At a glance

• Sample: Blood
• Collection: Self-collected sample using the supplied kit
• Estimated turnaround: 1 day from laboratory receipt of a usable sample

What this test measures

Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)

A protein that affects the availability of testosterone and oestradiol. A high or low result can reflect changes in immune proteins, hydration, liver function or protein loss and may need more specific testing.

How clinicians use this test

Clinicians use Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) as part of hormone assessment, often with related hormones and carefully chosen collection timing. One value rarely establishes the cause of symptoms by itself.

Is this the right test for you?

An adult exploring the stated hormone marker with a clinician or monitoring an established plan, with collection timing and medicines taken into account.

Preparation and collection

Return the sample on the same day it is collected. Do not post over weekends or bank holidays.

Understanding your result

The laboratory will report Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) with an assay-specific reference range, threshold or qualitative interpretation. Read the biomarker explanation above for common reasons a result may be high, low, detected or reactive, then use the laboratory comment and clinical context to decide whether repeat or follow-up testing is needed.

Your results and next steps

Review the result with collection timing, medicines and related hormones in mind. Do not start, stop or change prescribed hormone or thyroid treatment from a single home-test result without clinician advice.

Limitations

Hormone values can vary with collection time, age, medicines and biological state. A single result does not establish the cause of symptoms.

When to get medical help

Do not wait for a home-test result if you feel seriously unwell. Call 999 for a life-threatening emergency, or use NHS 111 when you need urgent advice and are unsure what to do.