High SHBG - any way to lower?

CanadaJim

Member
I recently was able to view lab results from 2018 to present day. Every time I have had lab work done (hormone panel) my SHBG is always higher than it should be. The higher than normal value presented even before I tried self prescribed TRT.
2018 (prior to testosterone) - Testosterone 26.9 nmol/l (Normal range 9.5 to 30)
- SHBG 57.4nmol/l (Normal range 11.0 - 50)
- Bioavail test 10.3nmol/l (Normal 4.8 to 14nmol/l)

2020 (after starting than stopping trt - 3-4 months 100mg weekly test cyp) - Testosterone 19.3
- SHBG 51.8
- Bioavail test 7.5
- Prolactin 6.8 ng/ml (3.5 - 19.4)
- Estradiol 112 pmol/l (<162) low

Subsequent blood work has also shown higher than normal SHBG with testosterone levels falling in the normal ranges. I haven't taken any testosterone since 2020.

Just wondering what could be contributing to lower SHBG and if this level could contribute to low libido and an overall feeling like my test is lower than it should be. Would starting trt at a higher dose address some issues or cause more?

Thanks
 
I recently was able to view lab results from 2018 to present day. Every time I have had lab work done (hormone panel) my SHBG is always higher than it should be. The higher than normal value presented even before I tried self prescribed TRT.
2018 (prior to testosterone) - Testosterone 26.9 nmol/l (Normal range 9.5 to 30)
- SHBG 57.4nmol/l (Normal range 11.0 - 50)
- Bioavail test 10.3nmol/l (Normal 4.8 to 14nmol/l)

2020 (after starting than stopping trt - 3-4 months 100mg weekly test cyp) - Testosterone 19.3
- SHBG 51.8
- Bioavail test 7.5
- Prolactin 6.8 ng/ml (3.5 - 19.4)
- Estradiol 112 pmol/l (<162) low

Subsequent blood work has also shown higher than normal SHBG with testosterone levels falling in the normal ranges. I haven't taken any testosterone since 2020.

Just wondering what could be contributing to lower SHBG and if this level could contribute to low libido and an overall feeling like my test is lower than it should be. Would starting trt at a higher dose address some issues or cause more?

Thanks
Sorry - Correction - *What could be contributing to **higher SHBG levels...
 
Estradiol 112 pmol/l (<162) low
The estrogen isn't low, top of the range is 162 pmol/L or 30 pg/mL, therefore not low.

What could be contributing to **higher SHBG levels...
Genes, diet, liver problems and starvation which would improve insulin sensitivity and increase SHBG.

Just wondering what could be contributing to lower SHBG and if this level could contribute to low libido
As long as FT is optimal, that's all that matters.
 

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⚠️ Medical Disclaimer

This tool provides predictions based on statistical models and should NOT replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your TRT protocol.

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Understanding Your Hormones

Estradiol (E2)

A form of estrogen produced from testosterone. Important for bone health, mood, and libido. Too high can cause side effects; too low can affect well-being.

DHT

Dihydrotestosterone is a potent androgen derived from testosterone. Affects hair growth, prostate health, and masculinization effects.

Free Testosterone

The biologically active form of testosterone not bound to proteins. Directly available for cellular uptake and biological effects.

Scientific Reference

Lakshman KM, Kaplan B, Travison TG, Basaria S, Knapp PE, Singh AB, LaValley MP, Mazer NA, Bhasin S. The effects of injected testosterone dose and age on the conversion of testosterone to estradiol and dihydrotestosterone in young and older men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2010 Aug;95(8):3955-64.

DOI: 10.1210/jc.2010-0102 | PMID: 20534765 | PMCID: PMC2913038

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