SHBG blood test
A protein made by the liver that binds testosterone and estradiol, controlling how much is free.
- Typical range (adult men)
- 16.5–55.9 nmol/L
- Panel
- Hormones
- Also called
- Sex hormone-binding globulin
Reference ranges vary between labs; use the range on your own report. Results need to be read by a doctor alongside your symptoms and other tests.
Why it’s tested
Explains a gap between total and free testosterone.
What can raise it
- Ageing
- Low body weight or under-eating
- Hyperthyroidism
- Liver disease
What can lower it
- Obesity and insulin resistance
- Anabolic steroid use, especially oral ones
- Hypothyroidism
Getting an accurate result
- Test in the morning, especially for hormones, which run highest early in the day.
- Stay hydrated, and test at the same lab and time of day each time so results compare fairly.
Other hormones tests
Questions
What is a normal SHBG level?
A typical adult male reference range is 16.5–55.9 nmol/L. Ranges differ for women, by age and between labs, so compare with the range printed on your report.
What does high SHBG mean?
Common reasons include ageing, low body weight or under-eating, hyperthyroidism and liver disease. One result outside the range isn't a diagnosis: a doctor will look at it with your other markers and history.
What does low SHBG mean?
Common reasons include obesity and insulin resistance, anabolic steroid use, especially oral ones and hypothyroidism.