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Hormones

SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)

Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is a liver protein that transports testosterone and estrogen. For men, SHBG levels directly influence how much free testosterone is available, which may affect energy, libido, and body composition.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Reference Ranges

See the value that applies to you:

Choose male or female — this range differs by sex.

Enter your age — this range changes with age.

This range also depends on context such as cycle phase or sample material; the highlighted rows apply to your group.

Your reference range
nmol/l
18,3 76,7 nmol/l
Reference ranges by group, in nmol/l
Male · 20–49 years 18,3–54,1 nmol/l
18,3 54,1
Male · 50 years and older 20,6–76,7 nmol/l
20,6 76,7
18,3 76,7 nmol/l

Bijsluiterwaarde: 5e-95e percentiel per subgroep (n = 241 mannen 20-49 jaar; 174 mannen 50 jaar en ouder; 166 vrouwen 20-49 jaar; 177 vrouwen 50 jaar en ouder), bij nuchtere bloedafname tussen 06.30 en 14.00 uur. Het referentiecohort bestond uit niet-zwangere volwassenen met een BMI van 30 of lager die geen anticonceptie of relevante medicatie gebruikten. Een hormoonreferentiewaarde is assay-specifiek; deze waarden gelden voor de Roche Elecsys-methode (CE-bijsluiter). Belangrijk bij de interpretatie: SHBG hangt samen met de lichaamssamenstelling — gewicht, BMI en middel-heupratio hangen omgekeerd samen met SHBG, en een verlaagd SHBG wordt gezien bij overgewicht, insulineresistentie en hypothyreoidie. De pil, zwangerschap en hyperthyreoidie verhogen SHBG juist, en hormoontherapie na de menopauze verandert SHBG afhankelijk van de toedieningsvorm. Gebruikt u anticonceptie of hormoontherapie, of bent u zwanger, dan is deze referentiewaarde niet op u van toepassing.

Source: Roche Diagnostics Reference population: Roche referentiecohort (Elecsys SHBG bijsluiter CE, studie CIM 000669; nuchter, BMI 30 of lager, niet zwanger, geen anticonceptie)

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Check your own value

What It Measures

This test measures the level of SHBG in your blood, reported in nmol/l. SHBG binds to sex hormones and influences how much testosterone and estrogen is freely available for your body to use. Higher SHBG means less free hormone.

Why It Matters

For men, SHBG determines how much testosterone remains freely available. Even with normal total testosterone, high SHBG could mean less active hormone. Understanding SHBG may help explain symptoms like fatigue or reduced libido.

When to Test

Testing may be recommended when experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance despite normal total hormone levels. Some healthcare providers may suggest SHBG testing alongside testosterone and estrogen tests for a more comprehensive hormonal assessment.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Some people with low SHBG levels may experience acne, oily skin, or hair thinning. In women, low SHBG could potentially be associated with symptoms of excess androgens. In men, it might contribute to hormonal imbalance symptoms.

High Levels

Some people with elevated SHBG levels may experience fatigue, reduced libido, or mood changes, as more hormones are bound and less are freely available. High SHBG could potentially mask adequate total hormone production.

Recommendations

Male

If Low

Low SHBG may indicate metabolic syndrome, obesity, or insulin resistance. Focus on weight loss, exercise, and metabolic health optimization.

If High

High SHBG may cause symptoms despite normal testosterone. Consider hyperthyroidism evaluation and consultation with an endocrinologist.

Lifestyle Tips

Maintaining a healthy body weight, regular exercise, and balanced nutrition may support healthy SHBG levels. Excessive alcohol consumption and certain medications could influence SHBG. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider before making changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between SHBG and free testosterone?
SHBG is a transport protein that binds to testosterone, making it inactive. Free testosterone is the unbound portion that your body can actively use. When SHBG is high, less free testosterone is available, even if total testosterone levels appear normal.
Can weight affect SHBG levels?
Body weight may influence SHBG levels. Higher body weight, particularly excess abdominal fat, is often associated with lower SHBG levels. Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise could help support optimal SHBG levels.
Why are SHBG reference ranges different for men and women?
Women typically have higher SHBG levels than men due to the influence of estrogen, which stimulates SHBG production. Men generally have lower SHBG because testosterone tends to suppress its production. Your healthcare provider will use sex-specific ranges.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.

Health Checkups

Men Over 40 Panel

Age-appropriate screening including testosterone and PSA.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Triglycerides Creatinine Free T4 (Thyroxine) LDL Cholesterol SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Cholesterol Vitamin D (25-OH) Free Testosterone Total Testosterone hs-CRP (High Sensitivity CRP) HDL Cholesterol
€279,-
Health Checkups

Complete Men's Health Panel

A broad men's health panel: hormones, heart, metabolic, and organ function in one blood draw.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Triglycerides Creatinine Glucose (Fasting) Free T4 (Thyroxine) LDL Cholesterol SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Cholesterol Vitamin D (25-OH) Free Testosterone Total Testosterone Ferritin hs-CRP (High Sensitivity CRP) HDL Cholesterol
€289,-

SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)

€44,-