Understanding Your Labs

🩸 Hemoglobin & Hematocrit

Effect of TRT:  Testosterone signals your kidneys to release erythropoietin (EPO), which stimulates bone marrow to produce more red blood cells. This can improve mild anemia and boost energy.

Safety Concern: If Hb/Hct rise too high, blood becomes “thicker.” 


Monitoring Steps:

  • Baseline testing before therapy
  • Check‑ins at 8 weeks, then every 6 months
  • Management if levels rise too high
  • Therapeutic phlebotomy (similar to donating blood) lowers Hb/Hct safely
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🧬 LH & FSH

Why test before TRT: Identifies the root cause of low testosterone.


  • Primary hypogonadism: LH/FSH high, testes not responding → TRT is standard treatment.

🧪 PSA (Prostate‑Specific Antigen)

Purpose: Protein from prostate cells, key for prostate health monitoring.

Before TRT: Establish a baseline PSA to detect pre‑existing conditions like 


BPH. 

During TRT: PSA may rise slightly. Concern is a rapid or significant increase.

Monitoring:


  • Test every 6 months
  • Refer to urology if PSA rises substantially
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💪 Total vs Free Testosterone

Total Testosterone (TT): Measures all testosterone (bound + free). 

Free Testosterone (FT):  The active hormone available to cells.


Why check both:

  • Normal TT but low FT can still cause symptoms
  • Borderline TT clarified by FT
  • Monitoring both ensures safe, effective TRT

⚖️ Estradiol Balance

Why it rises on TRT: More testosterone → more conversion to estradiol via aromatase.


Role in men:

  • Maintains bone density & cardiovascular health
  • Regulates libido & mood

Monitoring: Regular blood tests keep estradiol in the optimal range.

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🔄 Thyroid Function (TSH, T3, T4)

TSH: Pituitary signal to thyroid T4: Inactive thyroid hormone T3: Active hormone regulating metabolism & energy


Why test with TRT:

  • Symptoms overlap with low T
  • Thyroid dysfunction impacts testosterone production & SHBG levels
  • Full thyroid panel ensures accurate diagnosis before or alongside TRT

🛡️ Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) Antibodies

Purpose: Diagnose Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (autoimmune hypothyroidism).


Why important:

  • Identifies root cause of thyroid issues
  • Confirms autoimmune condition
  • Predicts future risk of hypothyroidism
  • Guides treatment plan
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100% Online Therapy 

  1. Choose Your Treatment Plan

Select the therapy that aligns with your health goals and lifestyle.

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2. Review Your Lab Results

Upload recent lab work or conveniently order fast, external labs, we'll provide you a lab requisition.

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3. Consult With a Licensed Provider

Receive one-on-one, personalized care as you discuss your symptoms, goals, and treatment options.

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4. Start Your Customized Treatment

Your prescribed therapy is prepared and delivered discreetly to your door.

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