Advanced Blood Tests for TRT Suitability

At CactusMen, your health and safety are our top priorities. As part of our thorough evaluation process for Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), we conduct a second, more in-depth blood test after your initial assessment. This test helps our Australian-licensed practitioners gain a comprehensive understanding of your hormonal health and it ensures that you get a plan that is tailored for you.

Why We Conduct a Second Blood Test At CactusMen

The second blood test is crucial for several reasons:

Accuracy and Consistency:

Hormone levels can fluctuate throughout the day. Testing on two separate occasions ensures we capture accurate and consistent data to base your treatment on.

Comprehensive Health Evaluation:

This test evaluates additional health markers that the initial test does not cover. These markers help identify any underlying conditions that might influence your treatment plan.

Regulatory Compliance:

Adhering to Australian medical guidelines, we follow a two-step testing process to ensure comprehensive understanding and safe management of your hormonal health.

Why We Conduct the Second, Separate Test After the First One

Increased Interval for Accuracy:

By conducting the second blood test after an initial interval, we can capture more accurate data. Hormone levels, including testosterone, can fluctuate significantly throughout the day. The increased interval helps us understand your hormonal baseline more accurately by accounting for these natural fluctuations.

Cost Efficiency:

To ensure you don’t incur unnecessary costs, we conduct a preliminary assessment with the first test. If your testosterone levels are significantly high in the initial test, it indicates that you likely do not have low T, and a second test may not be necessary. This approach helps you avoid spending more on in-depth tests if they are not needed.

What the Second Blood Test Includes

The advanced blood test covers a broader range of health markers, providing a detailed view of your overall health. The tests include:

Testosterone Levels:

Total Testosterone: Measures the overall testosterone in your blood, including testosterone attached to proteins like Sex-Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG).

Free Testosterone: Measures the amount of testosterone not bound to proteins, available for your body to use.

Full Blood Examination (FBE):

Checks your red and white blood cells and platelets to identify conditions like anaemia, infections, and other blood-related disorders.

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA):

Measures the level of PSA in your blood, a protein produced by the prostate gland. High levels can indicate prostate issues, including enlargement, inflammation, or cancer.

Glucose & CRP:

Glucose: Measures the level of sugar in your blood, helping diagnose diabetes and monitor blood sugar levels over time.

CRP (C-Reactive Protein): Indicates inflammation in your body, helping detect conditions like infections or chronic inflammatory diseases.

Lipids (HDL/LDL and Ratios):

Measures levels of different fats in your blood, including HDL and LDL. The ratio helps assess your risk of heart disease and guides dietary and lifestyle changes.

Grouped Hormones:

Growth Hormone (GH): Essential for growth and metabolism.

Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEAs): A precursor to sex hormones.

Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1): Important for growth and muscle development.

Sex-Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG): Binds to sex hormones and regulates their activity.

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinising Hormone (LH): Regulate reproductive processes.

Prolactin: Affects reproductive health and lactation.

Progesterone and Oestrogen: Female sex hormones important for reproductive health, also present in men in smaller amounts.

Cortisol: The stress hormone, affects metabolism and immune response.

Steps for Completing the Second Blood Test

Schedule the Test:

Following your first blood test and subsequent onboarding to CactusMen, we will guide you through scheduling the second test. You can choose to order the test through our partner, iMedical, or upload your recent results if you have them.

Blood Test Appointment

Visit one of 3000+ local testing sites across Australia for a quick and convenient blood draw. Ensure that you follow any pre-test instructions provided.

Results Review:

Typically, your test results will be returned within 2-3 working days. Our registered Australian practitioners will then review these results to make sure there’s no reason for you not to go ahead with your first consultation.

Once these 3 steps are out of the way, you’ll be able to book in for your first GP consultation and get started with a plan tailored to you, led by an Australian-licensed practitioner.

Important Information

Cost: The second blood test costs $183 if ordered through iMedical. This fee covers the extensive range of tests required for a thorough assessment.

Refund Policy: If the second test reveals that TRT is not medically suitable for you, we will issue a full refund for your membership fee. Please note that the cost of the blood tests is non-refundable, as they are processed through a third-party provider.

FAQs

Why is a second blood test necessary? The second test ensures we have a complete and accurate picture of your hormonal health, helping us tailor the most effective and safe treatment plan for you.

What should I do if my results show high testosterone levels? If your results indicate high testosterone levels, your practitioner will discuss appropriate steps based on your individual health profile and symptoms.

How soon will I get my results? Results are typically available within 2-3 working days. We will review them promptly and schedule a follow-up consultation to discuss the findings.

Can I upload my own recent blood test results? Yes, you can upload your recent blood test results if they meet our requirements and were completed within the past three months. You can do this by getting started here.

What if my results indicate that I’m not suitable for TRT? If the second test reveals that TRT is not suitable for you based on a clinical decision, we will provide a full refund for your membership fee. The cost of the blood tests, however, is non-refundable as they are processed by a third-party provider.

While we’ve tried to ensure the accuracy of the information above, the information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should never rely on this blog for specific medical advice, and if you have any questions or concerns specific to your personal case, you should speak to your doctor or reach out to our team directly.