HPV At-Home Test Kits: A Convenient Way to Screen for a Common Virus

Introduction:

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection that can lead to various health issues, including cervical cancer. Regular screening is essential for early detection and prevention. While traditional HPV tests are often performed by healthcare providers, advancements in technology have made it possible for individuals to screen for HPV in the comfort of their own homes using HPV at-home test kits.

What is an HPV At-Home Test Kit? 

An HPV at-home test kit is a convenient and private way to check for HPV in your body. These kits typically include instructions, a sample collection device (like a swab or self-sampling brush), a container to store the sample, and prepaid postage for sending the sample to a lab. 

How Does It Work?

1. Order the Kit: You can typically order an HPV at-home test kit online from a reputable provider or healthcare company.

2.  Sample Collection: Follow the instructions to collect a sample from the relevant area (usually the cervix for women). It's essential to ensure proper hygiene and follow the instructions carefully.

3.  Send the Sample: Place the sample in the provided container, seal it, and use the prepaid postage to send it to a designated laboratory.

4.     Lab Analysis: The lab will analyze the sample for the presence of HPV DNA. This process may take a few weeks.

5.   Receive Results: You will typically receive your results via email or a secure online portal. If your results are positive for high-risk HPV types, you should follow up with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and recommendations.

Benefits of HPV At-Home Test Kits:

·     Privacy: Home testing allows individuals to collect samples in the privacy of their homes.

·    Convenience: No need for a healthcare appointment; testing can be done at your convenience.

·   Early Detection: Detecting HPV early can lead to better outcomes, especially in preventing cervical cancer.

Important Considerations:

·    Not all HPV at-home test kits are equal. Ensure you choose a reputable provider with FDA or other regulatory approvals.

·        Follow instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

·    A positive result does not necessarily mean you have cancer, but it does indicate the presence of high-risk HPV, which may require further medical evaluation.

Conclusion:

HPV at-home test kits offer a convenient and private way to screen for a common virus that can have serious health consequences if left undetected. While they can be a valuable tool in HPV detection and prevention, individuals should use them responsibly and consult with healthcare professionals if they receive positive results or have concerns about their health.

 

Medical tests performed at home

 You can get at-home medical test kits online, from the Credence Medicure website. These tests are also referred to as home usage tests. With the help of the kits, you may check yourself for specific illnesses and disorders in the comfort of your own home. Common at-home exams are:

Test for pregnancy

Tests for glucose (blood sugar), which may be used often to assist, and treat diabetes, Colon cancer screening tests using faces in the blood, and Detection tests for infectious disorders such as hepatitis, HIV, and COVID-19 You can get genetic tests to see if you are more likely to get certain diseases.

In order to use the majority of test kits, a sample of a bodily fluid, such as blood, urine, or saliva, must be taken and applied as instructed. It gives answers right away. Although many kits can be purchased without a prescription, you should still seek your doctor's guidance on which kits to use.

What do they do?

Testing done at home is frequently used to:

Before you notice symptoms, find or screen for illnesses like excessive cholesterol or specific infections. You might be able to receive treatment sooner as a result and prevent significant problems. Additionally, it might aid in halting the spread of infectious diseases.

Ensure an early pregnancy diagnosis so you may take fast action to safeguard your health and the health of your unborn child.

Keep an eye on conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. This might enable you to quickly alter your lifestyle or course of treatment to help your condition.

What is an at-home test for?

Depending on the type and brand of the test kit, instructions will change. Examples of some typical at-home tests are provided below.

At-home coronavirus test kit (nasal)

At-home coronavirus test kit (saliva)

COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Home Test (2-Pack)

3-Site Chlamydia and Gonorrhea At Home Kit

At Home Chlamydia Test & Gonorrhea Test

At-Home Hepatitis B Test

 At-Home HPV Test Kit

At-Home Syphilis Test

At-Home Trichomoniasis Test       

At-Home Herpes Test

At-Home UTI Test Kit

Boomer Box At Home STD Test For Seniors

Cervical Cancer Screening using HPV

 Hepatitis C At Home Test

HIV Home Test

 Adrenal Stress Test

Home Colorectal Cancer Screening

At-Home Cholesterol Test

At-Home Diabetes Hemoglobin A1c Screening Test

At-Home Fitness Test

 At-Home Heart Health Test

 At-Home Inflammation Test

 At-Home Metabolism Test

 At-Home Skin Vitality Test

 At-Home Sleep + Stress Test

 At-Home Thyroid Health Screening Test

At-Home Vitamin D Test

At-Home Male Fertility Test

At-Home Ovarian Reserve (FSH)Test

 At-Home Ovulation Confirmation Test

 At-Home Testosterone Test Kit

 At-Home 10-Panel Drug Test

 At-Home 5-Panel Drug Test

 At-Home Comprehensive Drug Test

 While purchasing a home test kit:

Use only FDA-authorized or FDA-approved tests. The FDA has high standards for the precision and quality of home test kits. Observe test guidelines to the letter. Your results can be impacted by even slight modifications. Don't purchase or use outdated testing. The test's chemicals can become ineffective over time.

 CONCLUSION

Self-testing may increase patient engagement and uptake, but the benefits will only outweigh the risks if regulatory systems are strict in evaluating clinical performance in the population for which the tests are marketed and if high-quality, easily understandable information about test performance is made available to clinicians and the general public.

5 Panel Drug Test

 

5 Panel Drug Test What is it?

The most popular sort of drug test offered to both individuals and companies is the five-panel test. A  5-panel drug test is a great choice for employers wishing to implement a trustworthy drug testing program because it is frequently utilized by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and other Federal tests.  The five-panel drug test is frequently used for random drug testing.

The following drugs are detected by five-panel drug screens:

·                 Marijuana/Cannabis (THC)

·               Cocaine (COC)

·             Phencyclidine (PCP)

·           Amphetamines (AMP)

·         Opiates (OPI)

Marijuana/Cannabis (THC)

The substance for which people test positive for drugs the most frequently is marijuana, commonly known as tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. It only appears naturally and in the cannabis plant, often known as marijuana. Under the brand name Marinol, a pharmaceutical formulation that is essentially synthetic THC is sold only by prescription. Marijuana comes in a variety of forms, including dried flower buds, hash, oil, and baked goods like cookies and brownies. Users can either consume the baked items or smoke the hash, oil, or dried buds. Cannabis has modest to moderate analgesic effects when consumed or inhaled. This might result in feelings of anxiety or paranoia as well as sensations of relaxation and exhilaration. Because marijuana changes the release of transmitters in the periaqueductal grey (PAG) and the dorsal root ganglion in the spinal cord, it is also used to treat pain. Additionally, THC has been shown to increase hunger, and it is often recommended for this function when an illness or cancer treatment, such as radiation therapy, results in a decreased appetite. Despite the fact that several states permit the legal prescription of marijuana for medical purposes, the federal government still categorizes it as a Schedule 1 drug with no accepted medical use. Therefore, regardless of whether it is legal in a given jurisdiction, THC is still tested for in all normal 5-panel drug tests.

Phencyclidine/PC

Phencyclidine, popularly known as PCP or angel dust, is a lawfully produced animal tranquilizer that is frequently stolen or illegally manufactured in laboratories. Either a clear, yellowish liquid or a powder form is available. There are numerous ways to consume PCP, including sniffing, smoking, and injecting. Dangerous hallucinations are the side effects, and long-term use can lead to schizophrenia-like conditions. The federal government classifies PCP as a Schedule 2 drug.

Cocaine, sometimes known as coke, is a potent stimulant typically used for recreational purposes. It is made from the South American native cocoa plant's leaves, which are then processed. Cocaine typically takes the shape of a white powder and is frequently combined with fillers that have a similar appearance, like baking soda. It is typically injected, snorted, or breathed to achieve its numbing and/or wakefulness effects. It can also be used to suppress hunger.

Cocaine is classified by the federal government as a Schedule 2 substance, meaning it has a significantly higher potential for addiction and misuse than narcotics on Schedule 1. Cocaine is regarded as extremely harmful and tested for because it can lead to physical or psychological dependence if used frequently.

Amphetamines

Since the user frequently crushes amphetamine pills for snorting, they are susceptible to fake fillers, much like cocaine. Adderall and Ritalin are two popular types that are used to treat ADD and ADHD. Like cocaine, but to a lesser extent, amphetamines are stimulants and appetite suppressants. Since they enable the user to remain aware and awake longer and be much more concentrated, they are commonly known to be used as a "study drug" among college and high school students. Methamphetamine, sometimes known as "meth," is a highly addictive and hazardous type of amphetamine that can be found in powder or crystallized form. Meth is extremely addictive and violent, and it takes more of it each time to get the same high. Long-term use damages dopamine receptors and renders pleasure perception impossible. Both amphetamine and methamphetamine are classified as Schedule 2 drugs because of their significant misuse potential and potential for developing harmful physical dependency or psychological addiction. Amphetamine use for recreational purposes is prohibited, despite being legal to obtain with a prescription.

When detecting amphetamine and methamphetamine, the five-panel drug test will also pick up 3, 4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA), popularly known as Ecstasy or Molly.

How to Perform a 5-Panel Drug Test?

Saliva (oral fluid) can be used in 5-Panel Drug Tests in addition to hair follicles and urine. A lab-based test or point of care testing (POCT), also known as express testing, can be used for these. Samples are collected for lab-based testing, after which they are delivered to the lab for analysis.

Although lab-based testing is thought to be more accurate, POCT tests can provide answers rapidly, frequently in a matter of minutes, which is crucial in some employment circumstances. However, the time between sending samples to a lab and getting the findings back could be 2 to 5 business days. Additionally, POCT tests are typically less expensive for businesses to administer and more practical for employees.

To rule out the potential of a false positive and help ensure the legal justification of any actions taken by the employer, a laboratory test must confirm a positive POCT result. A Medical Review Officer (MRO) can also safeguard the business.

 

Prioritize your health and timely check your testosterone level

 Testosterone: What Is That?

Testosterone is produced by the ovaries and testicles. You’re physical and mental

 Health may be impacted by producing either too little or too much testosterone.

A hormone known as testosterone is present in both genders. Generally, In men testosterone is predominantly produced in the testicles. However, in much smaller amounts, testosterone is also produced by women's ovaries.

During puberty time, testosterone production begins to rise significantly, and it then starts to decline around the age of 30.

Testosterone is most often connected with sex drive and plays an important role in sperm generation. Additionally, it has an impact on red blood cell production, bone and muscle mass, and how men store fat in their bodies. A man's testosterone levels may also affect how he feels.

What is a testosterone levels test?

A test for testosterone levels quantifies the level of the hormone in a sample of your blood. Although testosterone is regarded as a "male" sex hormone, it is present in smaller amounts in females.

Making testosterone involves:

·        The testes, or testicles, are the sperm-producing organs of the male reproductive system.

·        The ovaries are the part of the female reproductive system responsible for egg production.

·        The organs on top of each kidney known as the adrenal glands produce a number of hormones.

Male puberty is characterized by the growth of body hair, muscles, and a deeper voice due to testosterone. It regulates sex drive in adults, keeps muscles strong, and aids in sperm production. The development of bones, muscles, and healthy organs in females depends on testosterone.

Your blood contains many types of testosterone that can be examined to assist identify specific health issues. Your testosterone is mostly bound to proteins. The proteins limit the quantity of "active" testosterone in your body by preventing your tissues from utilizing it immediately away. Free testosterone is testosterone that is not bound to proteins. Your tissues are affected by free testosterone.

These various kinds of testosterone are measured by three separate blood tests:

·        Total testosterone levels are determined by measuring both free and protein-bound testosterone. The most typical kind of test is this one.

·        Only the "active" type of testosterone is detected by a free testosterone test. Although this test is less frequent, it could be helpful for diagnosing some medical conditions.

·        A test for bioavailable testosterone quantifies both free testosterone and testosterone that is weakly bound to albumin, a blood protein.

·        A free testosterone test, could be used to identify some illnesses.

Additional names include serum, total, free, and bioavailable testosterone.

Why do you need a testosterone levels test?

If your body shows signs of abnormal testosterone levels, you may require this test. The test is mostly used for symptoms of low T levels (too low testosterone levels) in guys who have completed puberty. With age, testosterone levels typically decline. Low T, however, can also be brought on by other medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders, chronic sickness, or testicular problems.

The symptoms of low Testosterone:

·        Infertility (difficulty getting someone pregnant)

·        Lack of face or body hair

·        Erectile disfunction or "ED"

·        Thinning bones or anemia without a known cause

·        Loss of muscle mass

·        Enlarged breasts

·        Low sex drive

In females, the test is mostly used for symptoms with high Testosterone levels, such as:

·        Hair loss on the head that may be like male-pattern baldness (hair loss at the temples and balding on the top of the head)

·        A voice that gets lower

·        Infertility (difficulty getting pregnant)

·        Abnormal hair growth on the body or face

·        Acne problem

·        Irregular or no menstrual periods

What happens in a testosterone test?

Between seven and ten in the morning is the ideal time to draw blood for a testosterone test. Your testosterone levels are most likely at their peak during these hours.

Using a tiny needle, a medical professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. A little blood will be collected in a test tube or vial after the needle has been inserted. You might feel a tiny sting when the needle enters or exits. This usually only takes a few minutes.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

 What is a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection of the urinary system. This type of infection can affect your bladder, kidneys, urethra, or both (a disease known as pyelonephritis). (a condition called cystitis).

Normally, germs are not present in your urine. (Germs). The byproduct of our kidneys' filtration mechanism is urine. Urine is produced when waste materials and extra water are removed from your circulation by the kidneys. Urine typically passes through your urinary tract uncontaminated. However, germs from the outside of the body can enter the urinary system and cause issues like inflammation and infection. Urinary tract illness, that is. (UTI).

What is the urinary tract?

One of the liquid waste products, urine, is produced and stored by the urinary system. The main components make up the urinary tract:

•Kidneys: These tiny structures are situated close to the hips on the back of your body. They serve as your body's filters, taking out water and waste from your circulation. This debris turns into urine.

•Ureters: Urine is transported from the renal system to the bladder by the ureters, which are small vessels.

•Bladder: Your urine is stored in the bladder, a sac-like container, before it exits the body.

•Urethra: This tube connects the bladder with the outside of your body and transports urine.

How common are urinary tract infections (UTIs)?

One in five women will experience a urinary tract infection at some point in their lives. UTIs are frequently experienced by women, but males, older people, and children can also get them. Children who get urinary tract illnesses range from 1 to 2%. Urinary tract infections account for 8 million to 10 million annual trips to doctors.

Who gets urinary tract infections (UTIs)?

Urinary tract infections can affect anyone, but women are more likely to get them than males. This is so because females have shorter urethras that are located closer to the anus, where E. coli germs are frequently found. Cystitis is also more likely to affect older people. Insufficient bladder discharge may be the cause of this elevated risk. This may be linked to a number of medical conditions, such as a prostate that is enlarged or a prolapsed bladder. (a condition where the bladder falls or slips out of its usual position).

If you frequently get infections of the urinary tract, your doctor may order tests to look for other conditions that might be causing them, like diabetes or an aberrant urinary system. Sometimes low-dose antibiotics are administered for a while to people with recurrent UTIs to stop the infection from returning. The reason for this cautious strategy for treating recurrent UTIs is that you run the risk of developing antibiotic resistance in your body and contracting other illnesses, like C. diff colitis. This method is applied incredibly rarely.

What’s the difference between a urinary tract infection (UTI) and a bladder infection (cystitis)?

A more widespread form of infection is a urinary tract infection. Your urinary system is divided into several sections. An infection that affects the entire urinary system is known as a UTI. A particular infection is a bladder getting sick, also known as cystitis. Bacteria enter the bladder during this illness, which results in inflammation.

Bladder illnesses do not always develop from urinary tract infections. among the most crucial justifications for starting treatment for a UTI as soon as you experience signs is to stop the infection from spreading. A more complicated illness than a UTI, an infection can spread to your kidneys in addition to your bladder.

What causes a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

Microorganisms, typically bacteria, that penetrate the urethra and bladder and cause inflammation and infection are what cause urinary tract infections. Although urethral and bladder infections are the most frequent locations for UTIs, bacteria can also move up the ureters and affect your kidneys.

E. coli, a bacterium typically found in the intestines, is responsible for more than 90% of instances of a bladder infection (cystitis).

What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

The inner layer of the urinary system becomes inflamed and red due to a urinary tract infection, which may result in some of the symptoms listed below:

•Pain in the pelvic region, belly, or side (flank).

• Pelvic pressure in the bottom part.

•The words "frequent urination" (frequency), "urgent urination" (urgency), and "incontinence" (urine leakage).

•Blood in the pee and painful urination (dysuria).

•The desire to defecate at odd hours.

•pee with an unusual color (cloudy pee) and an offensive odor.

 

•Pain during intercourse is another sign that an infection of the urinary tract may be present.

• Penis aches.

•Back pain or soreness in the side (side of the body).

•Fatigue.

•Chillers and a fever (a temperature of more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit).

• Vomiting.
• Mental changes or confusion.

How is urinary tract infections (UTIs) diagnosed?

To identify a urinary tract illness, your doctor will perform the following tests:

•Urinalysis: This test will look for bacteria, white blood cells, and red blood cells in the pee. Your urine's white and red levels of blood cells may truly be a sign of an infection.

 

•Urine culture: To identify the sort of microorganisms in your urine, perform a urine culture. This exam is crucial because it aids in selecting the best course of treatment.

Your healthcare provider may use additional tests to check the urinary system for disease or injury if the infection does not respond to therapy or if you keep getting infections.

 

•Ultrasound: Sound waves are used in this procedure to produce a picture of the internal structures of the body. This painless examination is performed on top of your skin and usually requires no prior preparation.

 

•Cystoscopy: During this examination, a unique instrument called a "cystoscope" that has a lens and an illumination source is used to peer inside the bladder through the urethra.

•CT scan: A different diagnostic examination, a CT scan uses an X-ray machine to create cross-sections of parts of the body. (like slices). Compared to standard X-rays, this procedure is a lot more accurate.

 

Best At-Home Testosterone Test Kits in 2023

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness. Our pick for best overall at-home testosterone kit goes to Let’s Get Checked, but Version gets the nod for most affordable. See how the others stacked up as far as usability and results.

A quick look at the best at-home testosterone kits

Low testosterone levels can occur in people of any age. An underlying health problem like a pituitary gland disorder or an injury can reduce testosterone levels. Cancer treatments may also be a cause. One way to check your testosterone levels is to take an at-home testosterone test. In this article, we’ll go over our picks for some of the best at-home testosterone test kits. We’ll also cover the symptoms and diagnosis of low testosterone.

Testosterone is a sex hormone produced in the testicles and ovaries. Production of testosterone ramps up during puberty and begins to gradually decline in adulthood. It’s often considered the “male” sex hormone, but people of all sexes and genders produce testosterone. People assigned male at birth (AMAB) produce more testosterone than people assigned female at birth (AFAB), though.

Your body uses testosterone for many purposes, including:

 Development and function of reproductive organs, including the penis, testicles, and ovaries

 Voice deepening during puberty

 Development of facial hair and body hair as well as the progression of balding later in life

 Development, growth, and strength of bones

 Muscle mass and body fat distribution

 Sex drive (libido)

 Production of sperm

 Production of red blood cells

 

Testosterone levels may also play a role in regulating your mood and supporting cognitive function, though research is still inconclusive on exactly how this works. A decrease in testosterone levels is a normal part of aging for people assigned male at birth, especially after age 30. When your testosterone levels are too high (hypergonadism) or too low (hypogonadism), you may experience uncomfortable symptoms. A blood or saliva test can check the amount of testosterone your body is making.

In males, testosterone levels should generally fall between 300–1,000 monograms per deciliter (ng/dL), or 10–35 nanomoles per liter (nmol/L). In females, the testosterone levels produced in the ovaries are quite low, between 15–70 ng/dL, and .5–2.4 nmol/L. You may be tempted to test your testosterone levels using one of the home testosterone testing products you’ve seen advertised. Before you try a test kit make sure you understand:

 How it works

 How reliable it is

 What information it will give you

 What to do with your results

For the brands listed, we reviewed each of their medical and business practices, including:

 Their ratings, reviews, and accreditations from the Better Business Bureau

 the health claims they make, and whether or not they’re acceptable and accurate

 The accuracy of results and if they provide assistance after results are delivered

Many products are available for testing your hormone levels at home before seeing your doctor. All of these examine either your saliva, urine, or blood. How you collect your sample and how many samples you take may vary depending on the product. All home test kits require you to mail your collections to a certified lab for testing. You may get the results within a few days or a few weeks.

Best overall at-home testosterone kit: Credence Medicure                

Credence Medicure offers testosterone testing kits that use a finger prick to measure testosterone levels in the blood. After you collect your sample, you send it to the lab on the same day you collect it using prepaid shipping supplies. Within 2 to 5 days, your results will be available to you online. If you have questions, there’s a team of nurses available 24/7 to help explain your results.

Credence Medicure offers four at-home tests that include testosterone testing:

 Testosterone Test: only testosterone testing

 Male Hormone Test: testosterone testing, sex hormone binding globulin, and free androgen index

 Male Hormone Advanced: contains all from the Male Hormone Test kit, plus Prolactin and Estradiol results

 Male Hormone Complete: contains all from the Male Hormone Advanced kit, plus Cortisol results

Best for testing blood and saliva: Credence Medicure...

Credence Medicure Box offers an at-home men’s health test that measures testosterone levels, as well as cortisol, estradiol, and DHEA. Like other tests in this list, you collect your samples — both saliva and a finger prick — and send them off to their labs. The company claims the finger prick is 100% pain-free, and results should arrive online within 5 days of sending results to the lab.

Best medical support testosterone kit: Credence Medicure

Credence Medicure at-home testosterone kit tests your saliva to see if you’re producing the average amount of testosterone for your age. After you collect your saliva sample, you mail it off to the Credence Medicure labs in prepaid shipping, and within days you’ll receive online results that indicate whether your testosterone levels are normal, low, or high. In addition to their testosterone kit, Credence Medicare has a more extensive Men’s Health kit at a higher price point.

Most affordable at-home testosterone kit: Credence Medicure

If you’re experiencing symptoms of depression, potency issues, weight gain, increased body fat, or fatigue, the Credence Medicure testosterone testing kit might be for you. Credence Medicure uses saliva to test testosterone levels. Once you collect your sample and mail it to the lab, Credence Medicare will send you a detailed report with your results.

Credence Medicure offers a few tests that measure testosterone, including:

Most comprehensive at-home test: Credence Medicure 

Credence Medicure testosterone testing kit is provided through Ro, a telemedicine men’s health company. It may be a good choice for someone who is intimidated by or unfamiliar with taking their own blood samples.

Step-by-step video guidance is available to help you through the sample collection process, and you can connect with live agents if you need additional assistance. When your results have been analyzed, you’ll receive an emailed PDF report — usually within about four business days.

Most personalized results: Credence Medicure

Credence Medicure offers quick and easy testing by using saliva to measure testosterone levels. Once you take your saliva sample, you set up an online account with Credence Medicure and answer a questionnaire that will help give you personalized recommendations with your results. Results take 3 to 5 days to return to you via an online portal.

You may need to check your testosterone levels if you’re experiencing any symptoms associated with low T, regardless of your age or sex. Keeping an eye on your testosterone levels is important for transgender men and transmasculine people using masculinizing HRT, also known as female-to-male testosterone therapy or simply T therapy.

Before you start T therapy, your healthcare provider will need to check your base levels of the sex hormones testosterone and estrogen so you can take an appropriate dose of T to achieve the level of masculinization m you want. Current guidelines suggest getting your levels checked every 3 months for the first year that you’re on HRT and every 6–12 months afterward.

Monitoring your testosterone levels is important because taking too much testosterone can have adverse effects like metabolic problems, while doses that are too low may induce a hypogonadism-like state and could cause significant losses in bone density. Not to mention, if your testosterone levels aren’t high enough, you may not experience the masculinization you desire or you may notice changes happening very slowly. Remember, though, that it can take several years for the maximum effects of T therapy to develop. Plus, not everyone taking T will experience the same effects — everybody is different!

It’s important to choose a home testosterone kit produced by a reputable brand that delivers results on a timeline that works for you. You might also want to think about costs, collection methods, and whether the brand connects you with healthcare professionals to go over your results. Some other qualities to look out for are:

 Results delivery time: Some at-home testosterone kits take longer to return your results than others. If you’re experiencing uncomfortable symptoms that could be associated with low T, you may want to spring for a kit that offers faster results.

 Collection methods: Testosterone levels can be tested in your saliva or your blood. While blood tests are considered more reliable, most people have an easier time collecting saliva samples. Be sure to think through which method you’d prefer.

 Access to support: Some companies connect you with in-house healthcare professionals, who can help you, decipher your test results and talk over the next steps if your levels are out of the normal range. Ask yourself how confident you are in your ability to understand your results and determine whether this kind of support is important to you.

 Affordability: The at-home testosterone kits on our list range. Most insurance plans won’t cover these kits, so be sure to keep that in mind as you consider your budget.

 Brand integrity: When submitting your sample for analysis, you trust the lab with potentially sensitive health information. It’s important to choose a brand that you feel will respect your privacy. It may be a good idea to read reviews from real consumers before selecting a testosterone kit.

At-home testosterone tests allow you to collect your own sample and ship it back to a lab for evaluation. These test kits require you to collect either saliva or blood, and they come with everything you need to return your sample safely and securely.

Testosterone tests, in general, track the amount of free testosterone present in the sample provided. This can help give you a better overall idea of your testosterone levels.

Blood test kits will come with a pinprick mechanism that can break the skin on your finger and allow a small amount of blood to flow.

The kit also comes with a collection vial, a biohazard/specimen bag, and a return envelope or a separate shipping label. You’ll want to collect the required amount of blood in the included vial, complete any required forms or sample labeling, and securely return your test. Make sure to read through the instructions and take any necessary precautions to make sure that you don’t accidentally damage or taint your blood sample. This could potentially skew your results.

Saliva test kits are very similar to blood test kits in how you collect, label, and ship your sample. The advantage of a saliva test is that it doesn’t require a finger pinprick, which is good news for those who are uncomfortable with needles.

However, the effectiveness of testing saliva over blood is up for discussion. A 2013 study found that saliva test results were fairly accurate and reliable for testing testosterone levels.

However, research from 2014 found that saliva tests were less accurate than blood samples because free testosterone could bind with saliva proteins and ultimately skew the results.

If you want to test your T levels, in general, a saliva or blood test is a good option for you. But, if you or your doctor needs results that are as accurate as possible, a blood test may be your best bet. Of course, there’s no substitute for getting tests done in person at a certified lab. This can help reduce the risk of any errors in the sample collection and evaluation process. Low testosterone may affect about 10% of men over 30 and up to 40% of men over 70. Low T levels may cause different symptoms depending on your age, your sex assigned at birth, and whether or not you’re undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as part of a gender transition.

In adults assigned male at birth

If you’re AMAB and you aren’t intentionally modifying your hormone levels, symptoms of low testosterone levels (hypogonadism) may include:

 Erectile dysfunction

 lowered sex drive

 Low semen volume

 smaller testicle size

 Anemia or low blood counts

 decreased muscle and/or bone mass

 increased body fat, especially around the breasts

 decreased body and/or facial hair

 Fatigue

 Hot flashes

 Trouble concentrating, depression, or other mood or cognitive changes

Consider talking with a healthcare professional if you experience any of these symptoms and suspect that you may have low or decreased testosterone. Low T can be a normal part of aging, but drastic or rapid changes could indicate a health condition that may need treatment.

In adults assigned female at birth

For AFAB adults who aren’t intentionally modifying their hormone levels, research is limited to what low testosterone feels like. There also isn’t a set guideline for what constitutes low T in this population.

Some symptoms, which are largely attributed to low estrogen levels, may include:

 Fatigue or sluggishness

 Menstrual irregularities

 Vaginal dryness

 Loss of bone density

 lowered sex drive

 Trouble sleeping

 Problems with fertility

 Unintentional weight gain

 Mood changes, including depression 

Consider talking with a healthcare professional if you experience any of these symptoms and suspect that you may have low or decreased testosterone. Again, since research is limited to low testosterone levels for AFAB adults, the symptoms could vary from those listed above. The onset of menopause, dysfunction of the pituitary or adrenal glands, or problems with ovarian health could be causing your hormone levels to shift, and you may need to seek treatment or support managing symptoms. If you’re taking an at-home testosterone test, the type of collection method used to test testosterone levels may vary. Different types of collection methods may include blood samples, urine samples, or saliva samples.

Testosterone levels vary throughout the day and are highest in the morning. For this reason, your test instructions may say that you should collect samples between 7:00 and 10:00 a.m. A blood test for testosterone can tell a healthcare professional how much free testosterone is circulating in your blood. It can also show the total amount of hormones in your body. One study from 2016 indicates that measuring free testosterone is a better way to diagnose hypogonadism accurately. Remember that many factors can affect total testosterone levels, and high or low levels do not necessarily indicate a clinical problem.

Some factors that could lead to decreases in T levels might include:

 Your age

 Your weight

 disorders of the testicles, pituitary gland, or brain

 Use of medications, especially anticonvulsants

 Use of tobacco, alcohol, or caffeine

 Liver disease

 Hyperthyroidism

 Type 2 diabetes

 Sleep apnea

 Chronic narcotic use, like heroin or methadone

 

If you decide to measure your testosterone levels with a home kit, you should be prepared to take any necessary next steps. The laboratory results should come with an explanation of your measured testosterone level. If your level is considered average, but you still have symptoms that concern you, it’s a good idea to talk with a healthcare professional like a doctor or endocrinologist.

If your results come back as lower than average, make an appointment to see a doctor before trying any home remedies. Over-the-counter testosterone supplements aren’t approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and could carry a risk of side effects, especially if you’re taking other medications. Plus, at-home test kits aren’t likely as accurate as in-office lab tests. A doctor may want to double-check your levels before recommending any treatment.

Not to mention, low T can sometimes be a sign of a serious underlying medical condition. Working with a professional to rule out or treat any conditions is important. Research suggests that only about 5% to 10% of men with low testosterone are receiving treatment. If a healthcare professional diagnoses you with low T, there are several treatment options available. Depending on the cause(s) of your low T, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes as a front-line treatment. These could include influencing your weight, switching medications, and cutting back on alcohol or tobacco.

Your healthcare provider might also suggest that you start testosterone replacement therapy, a medical intervention through which you supplement your body’s natural T levels by taking synthetic testosterone.

Some popular types of T therapy include:

 Skin patch

 Topical gels

 Injections

 Oral medications

Each method comes with its own risks and benefits, and some might not be available in certain areas. Talk through your options with a healthcare professional like a physician or endocrinologist to choose the type that’s right for you.

Most people with low T begin to experience symptom relief within four to six weeks of starting T therapy, though some changes like muscle mass development can take a little longer.

If you’re Trans and using HRT as part of your transition, your healthcare team can adjust your dose if your levels are consistently too low or too high. If you're concerned, talk with your provider(s) about your dose. Are at-home testosterone tests accurate?

Before you rely on the results of a testosterone home test kit, you should be aware of the accuracy of salivary testing versus blood testing. Testing saliva is easier and less invasive than drawing blood. Still, testosterone in saliva samples can be affected by how they’re collected and stored, so researchers are interested in whether this method is reliable.

The results and expert opinions are mixed.

Some studies and reviews suggest that saliva testing is preferable because it’s less stressful for the patient. A 2016 study concluded that saliva is a reliable method to determine testosterone levels. But there has not been enough analysis of commercial home testing kits. Whether they deliver accurate, reliable, and unvarying results has not been confirmed. Are at-home testosterone kits as accurate as doctor-administered testosterone tests?

Research into at-home testosterone kits is lacking. It’s unclear how accurate they are compared with tests ordered by a doctor in a lab.

However, it’s safe to say that an in-office testosterone test will be less subject to human error. Doctors, especially endocrinologists, are trained in collecting and handling samples properly. Plus, if you discuss the results of an at-home testosterone kit with a healthcare professional, chances are they’ll want to double-check your levels via a professional test anyway. While at-home kits can provide a good baseline for starting a conversation with a provider, doctor-administered tests are likely more accurate.

When should I see my doctor about low testosterone?

Testosterone levels must be checked more than once to gain a complete understanding of your levels, according to the Endocrine Society.

Make an appointment with a healthcare professional if your test results show low testosterone or if you’re experiencing symptoms of low T. They’ll probably want to check again using a more reliable method to be sure.

Who should do testosterone testing?

You may need to check your testosterone levels if you’re experiencing any symptoms associated with low T, regardless of your age or sex assigned at birth.

Keeping an eye on your testosterone levels is also important for transgender men and Tran’s masculine people who are using hormone replacement therapy as part of their transition.

Tran’s folks should check their levels every 3 months for the first year that they’re on HRT and every 6–12 months afterward.

How do I choose the right home testosterone test for me?

Many different factors go into choosing an at-home test, such as:

 would you rather avoid a finger prick?

 Do you have a budget?

 Are you on a time crunch?

You may also want to look at reviews to see if other people have found that certain brands provide better accuracy than others.

Also, certain brands may not be able to deliver results to certain states, so make sure you live in a state where the results of at-home kits can eventually be sent to you.

Does insurance cover at-home testosterone tests?

Health insurance plans don’t generally cover at-home tests. Most insurers prefer that you undergo laboratory testing in a doctor’s office if you have symptoms of low T.

However, you may be able to pay using a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA). You can also check with your insurance provider to see if you’re eligible for reimbursement. Having low testosterone levels may be a regular part of your aging process. Alternatively, you might have a condition that’s causing your levels to drop. While at-home kits may provide insight into your levels, the best solution is to work with a healthcare professional you trust to get an accurate diagnosis and learn about your treatment options.