What is the difference between total and free testosterone?

Total testosterone includes testosterone attached to proteins and the smaller amount circulating unattached. Free testosterone measures that unattached portion. They are different measurements, not competing scores where one automatically matters more. MedlinePlus testosterone-testing explanation.

Whether both measurements are useful depends on the clinical question and how the tests were performed. One result should not become a reason to chase a higher number without understanding your symptoms and health.

At MedFIT, the goal is meaningful benefit from appropriate treatment, not making every result look “optimal.”

Next: Ask why each measurement was ordered and how it affects the decision.