💉🩸How many of us here actually get bloods done?💉🩸 Take the POLL

Like the title says: How many of us here actually get bloods done??​

(Read at bottom how to get bloods and how PSL could pay for your bloods if you use EP products)

I'm wondering on how many members here in the community actually get bloods done before, during and after a cycle, or even quarterly or annually?
There's numerous threads and articles all over the internet panels in regards to the significance behind getting bloods done and there exact reasons, factors and whatnot..

I ask this question to see how many people use recklessly without wanting to "know", or frivolously just wining it or hopefully responsibly checking your numbers if & when you can..
Let's hear on who actually does a follow up with their their Endo's, physicians or taken it upon yourself to order online and hit your local lab-corps..
I ask this for a few reasons..

1) People spend hundreds, or even thousands of dollars on gear/cycling/blasting & cruising or even TRT..
Whatever your protocol may be -
Yet many don't consider dumping an addition 75-$125$ on some blood work..
It's only a few extra buck$ people and for SOME it's free or inexpensive with insurance coverage..

2) For the obvious, this could ultimately pin point where you came from, where you're at and where you're potentially going, or potential issues ahead..

3) It's essential with not only seeing if your gear is legit but where your E1/E2 and Test/total/Free Test/SHBG and other serum levels are at, also seeing if/when your PCT has worked or not!

4) It provides an overall blueprint/map of where you're at and what's currently going on!

So....Where do you stand, do you get bloods?

Below is some info that may cover the vast spectrum of this topic and the importance with why getting bloods may provide a pivotal piece of information on
where you are and where your going and where you came from!

How to Read Your Liver Blood Test Results (Please read)

I'd like to start a topic on a most frequently asked question!

It seems to be more common than ever with individuals that make it known that they run gear, yet seem to lack an understanding about getting bloods and the very importance, especially beginners or long time users/heavy hitters that just skate on by spit-balling their usage..

Years back it wasn't usual to have little to no understanding, however, with the vast amount of studies and information today, from anecdotal reports to medical data/resources available there shouldn't be excuses with having absolutely no understanding.. Most of all there shouldn't be a reason why a base-line, pre/mid and post cycle pre blast blood analysis isn't pulled at some point in a users lifetime.. At least for educational purposes..
So, I gathered some information from some great articles that are available that will provide the basic essentials with covering the following -

How to read normal bloods, where to get bloods, and how to read a chart..

It's vital to know where you stand before a pre-cycle, mid-cycle and post-cycle.
Especial for the very importance with comparing numbers (baseline) and keeping a record, time/dates and what compounds where used!

It's crucial to get a blood analysis..

I also added some additional info on normal E2 and other hormonal levels at the very bottom for these between the ages of 18-26
(Everything posted is for educational purposes only)
Regards,
Vision

Also read -
Why labcorp or Quest could be wrong with your blood reports.
______________________________

What’s a “Normal” Testosterone Level and How to Measure Your Testosterone!​

Today we’ll be taking a look at what’s considered a normal testosterone level and how you can get your testosterone levels tested.

As I began researching testosterone levels and hormone testing for this series,
I quickly learned that there’s a lot of conflicting and confusing information out there —
some websites will say that “X” is a normal testosterone level, while another website says “Y” is the ideal range. Even medical labs give conflicting numbers on what’s a normal testosterone level.

Why so much confusion?

The problem is that there hasn't been much standardization in hormone testing, particularly regarding T levels.
Different labs use different methods (and measurements) -
Types of tests:
ECLIA vs LC MS-MS; ECLIA Method which is short for "Electrochemiluminescent Immunoassay".. It’s a fast and affordable method to measure total hormones in your blood. Many labs and hospitals (ER's) use this method because it’s automatic and doesn’t require too much work on a lab technician’s part, it's simply the standard affordable method done by most clinics for blood tests..It's not reliable or entirely accurate..It's simply just a "standard generic method", fast turn around, nothing more, nothing less...It's simply just a fast, quick snap shot for the moment to give almost instant results, so it's somewhat accurate for that sole purpose when it concerns "Just tell me what's going on now, yes or no"...

LC MS-MS Method is short for "liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry". It’s considered the gold standard method by many researchers in measuring small molecules. Its accuracy and consistency is why the CDC is recommending LC/MS to be the standard method used when testing total testosterone, FREE test, SHBG and at tomes ESTROGENS or even HGH/IGF . Because LC/MS is more sensitive than ECLIA, doctors typically use this method when testing patients with really low levels testosterone, estro or even with HGH - (Some places will use a CAPPED measurement that is simply a crude indicator/not very accurate), and testing individuals such as women and children. While it’s more accurate and sensitive, the LC/MS method is more expensive than ECLIA. And it takes a bit longer to get your results...Always place into great consideration that with the LC MS-MS method it will be more pronounced with measuring specific concentrations..
The info above has created confusion among consumers and even family doctors about what testosterone level results even mean, thus is true...
Hopefully, the current state of confusion will soon change. The Center for Disease Control here in the U.S. started a project in 2010 to get labs to agree on standard hormone testing procedures.

It’s slowly gaining ground, but not every lab has signed on.

I also learned that the bottom range of what’s considered “normal” by many doctors is actually woefully underestimated. Doctors are telling men who come to them with symptoms of low testosterone,

“Well, you’re barely within normal range, but it’s still normal, so…you’re fine! ”No, Dr. Everything’s-A-Okay. It’s not fine.

I hope in this post I can clarify some of the confusion surrounding testosterone levels and hormone tests. I’ll be straight with you.
This stuff is super confusing. I’ve done my best to synthesize all the disparate info out there into an easy-to-read format for the layman and have sought to create the most accessible resource on the web. But, I’m not a scientist or doctor, and may have gotten a few things wrong. If any of you professional endocrinologists see an error, I welcome your corrections.

Total and Free Testosterone Levels

Before we begin, I want to reiterate the fact that there are three different types of testosterone floating in your body: free testosterone, SHBG-bound testosterone, and albumin-bound testosterone.

When you get tested, there are two tests you can get, sometimes three: total testosterone and free testosterone & bio test


Total testosterone is the total amount of T floating in your blood at the time of the test: free, SHBG-bound, and albumin-bound combined.
Total testosterone is typically measured in ng/dl, or nanograms per decilitre.
Free testosterone is the measurement of — you got it — free testosterone (which often includes albumin-bound testosterone as well because it can easily convert to free T).

Free T is typically measured in picograms per milliliter. As we’ll discuss later in this post, because free testosterone makes up such a tiny, tiny percentage of your total T,
it’s really hard to measure accurately. So, when you see research on normal testosterone levels, it usually focuses on total testosterone.

Consequently, most of the numbers in this post will be about total T levels. With that said, I do include some references to research that indicates what average and optimal free testosterone levels are.

What’s a “Normal” Testosterone Level?



When you go to get tested for testosterone, the lab will often show you what’s considered the “normal” range among patients who have tested with that particular lab. It’s called the “reference range.”

For example, LabCorp shows a reference range of 348 – 1197 ng/dl (nanograms per deciliter) for total testosterone levels. According to this reference range, my total testosterone level of 383 ng/dl at the beginning of my experiment would mean my total T levels were — barely — within the normal range.

Here’s the problem.
(The reference numbers my have changed as the min-max standard has been adjusted by the endocrine-society)

That reference range consists of a wide variety of men who tested with LabCorp: 80-year-old men and 20-year-old men; obese men and super fit men;
men with pituitary gland problems and men with glands that work like champs.

Sure, 383 ng/dl was considered normal, but normal compared to whom? An 80-year-old man with Type 2 diabetes?
The fact that reference ranges don’t break patients down by age or health status explains why a 30-year-old man can go to his doctor with the symptoms of low T, only to be told that his T levels are fine because they’re within the “normal” range.

If you’re 30 (or even 50), but have the same testosterone level as an 8o-year-old, diabetic man, your doc may say you’re okay, but you’re still not going to feel good. Plain and simple.

What’s interesting is that for many years, the bottom number of the reference range for T levels at many medical labs was much lower. For example, up until last year, LabCorp’s reference range for testosterone was 249-836 ng/dl. You could have had a testosterone level of 250 (which is super low) and still be told by your doctor that you were normal.

All this is to say that the “normal” levels put out there by doctors and labs aren’t all that useful.

Average Testosterone Levels by Age

When determining what’s considered a normal testosterone level, it’s best to look at what the reference range is for men your age.

Researchers have known for years that T levels typically drop by about 1% every year after you hit your mid-30s. So if you’re 35, comparing yourself to a bunch of 80-year-old men isn’t very useful because they likely have really low T levels.

Unfortunately, many labs don’t break down reference ranges by age. However, studies have been done in which researchers do just that. Below, I include the results from two such studies.



The above chart groups men into seven ten-year age increments. It’s based on results from this 1996 study. According to this chart, my T level at the beginning of the experiment (383 ng/dl)
was closer to the average of an 85-100-year-old man. Yikes! This chart also lists the average free testosterone levels of the subjects.
My beginning free testosterone was below the average of men my age and my end level was above average.
In a study done that same year by another team of researchers, they produced the following chart of testosterone levels broken down by age:



While this chart doesn’t show average free testosterone levels, I like the fact that it shows the T levels of men in the bottom five and ten percentiles as well as the T levels of the men in the top 95%.
You can see how you compare to men with the lowest and highest T levels.
According to this chart, my beginning T level (383 ng/dl) was near the bottom 5% and 10% across all age groups.
Even for 55-59-year-old men. (Boo!)
My testosterone level after 90 days of good living (778 ng/dl), was above average for my age group (Bully!).
These charts are a much better source than labs’ reference ranges to check if your T levels are normal.
If your doctor tells you that your T levels are normal, make sure to compare the results to these charts to ensure he’s not shortchanging you.
As far as normal percentages of free testosterone go, ~2-3% is considered normal. If you’re significantly below that percentage range, you’ll likely experience symptoms of low T even if your total T is average or above average.

Go For Optimal, Not Average

If your testosterone levels match up with the average in the charts above, it’s safe to say that you have adequate amounts of T in your system. But we don’t want to go for just adequate, we want optimal testosterone levels so that we can derive as much benefit as we can from this virile molecule.
What’s an optimal T level, you ask? Great question.
The answer is: “It depends.”

Every man is different, so their level of optimal testosterone will be different, too. For some men, a testosterone level of 600 ng/dl will make them feel great,
while other men need to be around 800 ng/dl in order to experience the benefits of optimal T.
Clinical research still hasn’t determined a hard threshold level for when symptoms of low T begin appearing.
Some recent research suggests that symptoms of low T might begin appearing in men when their total testosterone level dips below 320 ng/dl.
According to anecdotal evidence from the owner of Peak Testosterone, many men start noticing low T symptoms when their total testosterone dips into the 400s.
Of course, it’s anecdotal, so take it for what it’s worth, but it’s probably a good idea to stay above 500 ng/dl if you don’t want to experience symptoms of low T.
So that’s a good rule of thumb for the lower threshold. And from there you can shoot for levels that are in the higher range for your age group.
But it’s important to note that optimal testosterone doesn’t necessarily mean you need super-high levels.
Past a certain level, testosterone can actually cause a bunch of not-so-good side effects, like sleep apnea and overly thick blood.
You typically only have to worry about too much testosterone if you’re using testosterone replacement therapy. Barring some physiological defect,
too much T usually isn’t a problem found in men increasing their testosterone naturally through changes in lifestyle and diet.

How to Measure Your Testosterone Level

(Ordering blood test online is far cheaper and is the best route without the intervention of your primary Dr)
Fast Blood Lab Tests. No Doctor Visit. Blood Testing Near You | Private MD Labs

There are three ways to test your testosterone levels: saliva sample, urine sample, and blood sample. Each method has its pros and cons.
Saliva and urine tests are relatively inexpensive and fast. You can even buy a saliva test kit on Amazon for about $30. Just spit in the cup, put it in the mail, and a week later you’ll get a total testosterone measurement.
The problem is that saliva and urine tests aren’t very accurate, which is why endocrinologists typically don’t use saliva or urine samples when diagnosing low testosterone levels.
Instead they use blood serum tests.
While blood tests are much more accurate and sensitive than saliva or urine tests, they’re also much more expensive —
blood tests for total and free testosterone can set you back $130. Because I wanted the most accurate results,
I went with the blood serum testing.
What I didn’t know before I got tested was that there are different kinds of testosterone blood tests, some more accurate than others. As I mentioned at the beginning of the post,
there isn’t much standardization amongst labs when it comes to testing.
Some labs use one method, while another lab will use another test.

I later learned that the blood test I used to measure my total testosterone for my experiment wasn’t the most accurate on the market and wasn’t what the CDC is recommending labs use in their goal to standardize hormone testing.
(I tested myself a month after my 90-day experiment with the blood test the CDC recommends. I’ll share my results in a bit.)
I also learned that measuring free testosterone is pretty dang hard and that most free T measurements that labs give are typically just estimates.
Below I share what I learned about the confusing world of testosterone blood tests.

Blood Tests for Total Testosterone

ECLIA Method. When I tested myself for total testosterone for my experiment, the method the lab used was ECLIA, short for Electrochemiluminescent Immunoassay. It’s a fast and affordable method to measure total testosterone in your blood. Many labs use this method because it’s automatic and doesn’t require too much work on a lab technician’s part. However, some studies have shown that values obtained with ECLIA are significantly higher compared to the more reliable LC/MS method. Which brings me to - LC/MS Method.
LC/MS is short for liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. It’s considered the gold standard method by many researchers in measuring small molecules.
Its accuracy and consistency is why the CDC is recommending LC/MS to be the standard method used when testing total testosterone. Because LC/MS is more sensitive than ECLIA,
doctors typically use this method when testing patients with really low testosterone levels, such as women and children. While it’s more accurate and sensitive,
the LC/MS method is more expensive than ECLIA. And it takes a bit longer to get your results.
A month after my 90-day experiment, I got tested again, but this time using the LC/MS method. My total testosterone level using this method was 826.9 ng/dl.
Meaning my T levels increased even more since starting my testosterone changes.
You’ll have to make the call on which method you go with. If you don’t think you have extremely low T, ECLIA will work just fine.
Just know that most researchers see LC/MS as the method that produces the most accurate and consistent results. Labs often offer both ECLIA and LC/MS tests. Later on, I’ll share where you can get tested using either method.
Blood Tests for Measuring Free Testosterone
Reading about the myriad of ways to measure free testosterone has nearly put me in the nut house.
It’s confusing.
The problem that labs face is that there is so little free testosterone in our body, it’s hard to measure directly.
Below I lay out the methods available right now to measure free T.

RIA Direct. It’s cheap, fast, but not very accurate. Recent studies have been calling into question the use of RIA direct methodology to measure free testosterone.
Unfortunately, most labs across the country only use RIA direct because of its cost effectiveness. LabCorp, the lab I used, only measures free T using RIA direct. Despite the criticisms levied at RIA direct tests, many researchers believe it’s an adequate method for routine tests.
Equilibrium Ultrafiltration. Many in the field of endocrinology argue that equilibrium ultrafiltration is a superior and more accurate testing method to RIA direct.
The problem is that many commercial labs don’t offer the method because it’s so time consuming and requires well-trained technicians. If you can find a lab that uses equilibrium ultrafiltration, expect to spend a bit more than you would for a RIA direct.
Calculated free testosterone. Instead of directly measuring free testosterone in your blood,
it’s possible to get a rough estimate by calculating the amount of albumin, SHBG, and total testosterone in your blood.
The problem with this method is that 1) it’s not very accurate and 2) it requires you to pay for three different tests: albumin, SHBG, and total testosterone. This can get pretty expensive, pretty fast.
As you can see, you have a variety of options when getting tested for T levels. My recommendation is to try to get your total testosterone number using the LC/MS method and use whatever method is available and cost effective to measure free testosterone. Of course, I’m just a guy who writes a blog about manliness, so take that recommendation with a grain of salt.

Where to Get Tested for Testosterone

Here’s how:
Order the test online. You’ll need to order a blood test using a website that sells blood tests to consumers. No, you don’t send the website a blood sample.
These sites contract with labs across the country to draw blood. They basically act as a middleman.Here are the sites I used to buy my tests:
https://www.privatemdlabs.com/

Health Testing Centers. You can order a total and free testosterone test for $129. Just be aware the methods that Health Testing Center will request are ECLIA for total testosterone and RIA direct for free testosterone.

Request a Test. You can order a LC/MS total testosterone test from Request a Test. They say you can order an equilibrium ultrafiltration free testosterone test, but when I got my lab results back, it showed that the direct method was used. I’m still looking into that, but wanted to give you the heads up.
You can also order albumin and SHBG tests from both Health Testing Centers and Request a Test so you can use the calculation method to figure out your free testosterone levels.
Go to a local lab. After you pay for your blood test, you’ll get an email from the website with your order information. You’ll also be told which lab you need to visit in your area to have the test done. Both Health Testing Centers and Request a Test sent me to LabCorp. If you’ve ever applied for a job that requires a drug test, you’ve probably been to LabCorp yourself, as they are a national company.
Get blood drawn. A nice nurse will draw some blood samples. The whole process takes less than 2 minutes. It’s best to get your blood drawn first thing in the morning, as T levels are at their highest in the morning and steadily decline throughout the day.
Get your results. Two or three days later, you’ll get an email from the lab with your results.
Test more than once. Because testosterone levels are sensitive to a whole host of environmental factors, it’s important to get tested more than once when diagnosing low T.

You could have below average T levels one week, but slightly above average the next. This is particularly important if your doctor is considering putting you on testosterone replacement therapy. You don’t want him to make the decision from a single test!
Conclusion

Don’t use lab reference numbers to determine if your T is low. They’re not usually accurate. Use the charts above for your specific age range.
Take a blood test to determine your total T levels. You can get this blood test at the doctor, or by signing up online and going to a local lab. Make sure to get tested in the morning!
If you can, take the LC/MS test to measure your total T — it’s the most accurate. If that’s not available, the ECLIA test will work okay.
To find your free T, try to use the Equilibrium Ultrafiltration test — it’s the most accurate. If that method isn’t available, the RIA Direct test will work okay.
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Below is some general information in regards to other hormonal levels that indicate the normal ranges

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This is a more potent form of testosterone that is metabolized by the body from other androgens. In men most is made from testosterone,
while in women the main source is androstenedione (which is first converted INTO testosterone). Current research indicates that DHT is responsible for male-pattern balding and excessive,
unwanted hair in both sexes. In males it is also responsible for non-cancerous prostate swelling (BPH).

LDL - this is the so-called "Bad cholesterol" and may be a factor for some people. Estrogen therapy tends to lower the LDL level while testosterone therapy makes it go up.
If you have a high LDL level and are on TRT therapy, you may have to make adjustments to diet or take other medications to address it.

Estradiol (E2) - this is the main "female" hormone. There are two others, Estriol and Etrone, that are also sometimes tested, but they are metabolized from Estradiol,
so it is usually the main one checked. The full name is 17-beta-Estradiol, which is also available in several medications for ERT therapy. Current research indicates that, in some people,
this hormone may play a role in the loss of bone density, prevents male bodies from clearing DHT out of the prostate gland,
and can stimulate estrogen-sensitive tumor growth (if estrogen-sensitive cancer cells are already present).

Progesterone (Pg) - This steroid hormone is a female sex hormone which, in conjunction with estrogens,
regulates the accessory organs during the menstrual cycle and it is particularly important in preparing the endometrium for the implantation of the blastocyte and in maintaining pregnancy.
In non pregnant women progesterone is mainly secreted by the corpus luteum
whereas in pregnancy the placenta becomes the major source. Minor sources are the adrenal cortex for both sexes and the testes for males.
Current research indicates it balances against overactivity of both testosterone and estrogen,
and effectively blocks 5-alpha-reductase enzymatic conversion of testosterone into DHT. Progesterone also plays a role in stimulationg Osteoblast (bond building) enzymes, lowering cholesterol levels,
stimulating growth of epithelial tissue and lobule-alveolar systems in the breasts, and upregulation of the P-53 cell-division gene,
thus offering an anti-carcinogenic effect against run-away cell division in hormone sensitive tumors.

Testosterone (T) - one of the most important male sex hormones. In men it is mainly synthesized by the testes, in women both the ovaries and by the adrenal cortex; it is secreted into circulation.
Testosterone is transported in the plasma by a beta-globulin, called testosterone binding globulin. It is estimated that about 98 % of the circulating testosterone is bound.
The remainder, present as free testosterone, is assumed to be the metabolicly active portion. In the target organ, it is transformed by 5-alpha-reductase into the physiologically effective androgen DHT.
In men the determination of testosterone is used as an indicator for the function of the testes: low hormone levels are found in cases with Klinefelter's syndrome, cryptorchism or anorchia.
Male or female patients with an androgen producing tumor (ovaries, adrenal cortex, testes) show increased values.
Measurement of testosterone is used to confirm hirsutism in woman.
The determination of free or not specifically protein-bound testosterone can be helpful in cases of hyperprolactinemic women or hyperandrogenism.
It promotes the burning of fat and the building of lean muscle mass. It also appears to be the fuel for the libido in both sexes.
The role of testosterone in cardiovascular health is still hotly debated, but it appears that it may have a detrimental effect over the long term.
Testosterone, like progesterone, upregulates the P-53 gene to turn off rampant cellular division, so in that sense is anti-carcinogenic.
Testosterone also stimulates oil production in the skin, which can lead to acne problems.

Free or Unbound Testosterone ("Free T") - As mentioned above, about 98% of the testosterone in a man or woman's body is bound to blood proteins.
This means that only a small portion is actually "bio-available" and acting on the body's tissues. A healthy percentage for either men or women is around 2.5%.
One thing that sometimes frustrates gender patients is that the measurements for the biologically significant free testosterone are not easily compared between men and women.
Labs often will state the percentage free for men,
but give a measurement in pg/ml for women.
Or the male measurements will be in ng/dl requiring a mathematical conversion for direct comparison to the "normal" range of the opposite sex.
The percentage is usually higher in adolescents (up to 5%) and quite low in elderly people (around 1%).
Many doctors believe that any reading below 2% means the patient should take testosterone supplements, and that any reading below 1% indicates a completely absent sex drive.
The level readings between men and women are so vastly different because the number represents a percentage of the TOTAL testosterone.
Women naturally start with a lower total amount, so 2.5% of 40ng/dl is going to be much less than 2.5% of 800ng/dl in a man.

CLICK HERE for sample reference ranges for other free/bioavailable hormone levels.

DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) is secreted by the adrenal cortex. DHEA-S
is thought to be a biologically weak androgen, but because of its high concentration in blood, it contributes significantly to the androgenization process.
The physiological role of DHEA-S is not well known, but it seems to be intricately involved in adrenarche (axillary and pubic hair growth).
DHEA-S appears to be an excellent indicator of adrenal androgen production.
Elevated levels of DHEA-S have been reported in states of excess androgen production such as cystic acne, hirsutism, infertility, enzymatic adrenal defects,
Cushing's syndrome due to bilateral adrenal hyperplasia, and virilizing adrenal tumors.

Androstenedione - this hormone is produced by the adrenals and gonads. Therefore, the determination of the level of androstenedione in serum is important in the evaluation of the functional state of the glands.
Androstenedione is a precursor of testosterone and estrone. Besides the adrenals, in females, the ovaries have been shown to be an important source of androstenedione during the ovulatory cycle.
The principle production of testosterone in females is from the conversion of other related androgens, especially androstenedione.
An abnormal testosterone level in women should be accompanied by the estimation of serum androstenedione.
The use of serum testosterone determination in conjunction with Enzyme Immunoassay of androstenedione can be used to determine if source of excess androgen production is adrenal or ovarian.

Leutenizing Hormone (LH) -LH stimulates Leydig cells in the testes to produce and secrete testosterone (T). As the testosterone travels through the bloodstream it passes through the
anterior pituitary gland and hypothalamus it creates a "negative feedback loop" that triggers a decrease in GnRH and LH. LH also stimulates the adrenal gland to produce androstenedione and progesterone.
A problem with LH levels alone is rarely seen, so testing is only needed if testosterone level is abnormal, for example,
if the patient is suspected to have been born with Klinefelters Syndrome.
In women a normal LH level is similar to FSH. An LH that is higher than FSH is one indication of PCOS.

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) - In women FSH is often used as a gauge of ovarian reserve. In general, under 6 is excellent, 6-9 is good, 9-10 fair, 10-13 diminished reserve,
13+ very hard to stimulate. In PCOS testing, the LH:FSH ratio may be used in the diagnosis. The ratio is usually close to 1:1, but if the LH is higher,
it is one possible indication of PCOS. Basic hormone testing for males often only includes testosterone and FSH. However,
in cases such as Klinefelters Syndrome doctors will usually look at both FSH and LH levels.
In males FSH stimulates the Sertoli cells in the testes to produce androgen-binding proteins, testosterone,
and a protein called inhibin. Inhibin, in turn, travels in the blood back to the pituitary gland whre it creates a "negative feedback loop" that decreases the output of FSH.
Since FSH stimulates testosterone production, and testosterone can be converted to DHT and estradiol,
an increase of any or all three can also create a "feedback loop" that decreases FSH secretion.

Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) - this is the principle blood protein that ties up the bulk of the steroids the body produces.
For example, it bind with about 98% of the total testosterone, but also binds with other steroids as well. As androgen production increases, available SHBG decreases.


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"If your between the ages of 18-26 please read here"

Last but not least, I would like to provide a chart that indicates the age of incline to decline in regards to TESTOSTERONE levels..
If your between the ages of 18-26 you clearly see that your levels are almost at peak, at 30 it's peaked out and slowly declines..
This is a reason why most advocate to stay clear of AAS during these years as your levels are at optimal standards.. Introducing AAS can in fact effect your growth plates, as some males are in fact not completely done growing and this could have more detrimental effects on your endocrine system, nervous system and overall hormonal levels for life!

Supraphysiologocal levels of synthetic hormones like Testosterone or other anabolic/androgenic steroids can stunt your growth, this is due to the vast amount of estrogen conversion by way of the aromatase enzyme. Also the fusion of growth plates can be a consequent in your body due to the system of checks/balances with hormonal elevations/spikes, as it will produce in an attempt to create an equilibrium within your body. It's been proven that spikes of estrogen brings about a close in the growth plates at the end of puberty at it's naturally course of action..

Postnatal growth of the long bones occurs through the stimulation of chondrocyte proliferation at the epiphyseal growth plates. The size of the epiphyseal growth plate remains the same as long as cartilage proliferation keeps pace with the rate of ossification, which occurs from the shaft side of the growth plate. Statural growth can occur as long as the epiphyseal growth plates persist. The gonadal steroids (estrogen, testosterone) cause closure of the epiphyseal growth plates in late adolescence. The cartilage becomes entirely replaced with bone and statural growth ceases.


https://www.anabolicsteroidforums.com/threads/blood-work-incentives-and-how-to-take-bloods-only-at-psl-let-us-prove-it-we-will-pay-for-your-blood-work-free-gear-money.110288/


Blood work incentives and how to take bloods! Only at PSL Let us PROVE it.... "WE WILL PAY FOR YOUR BLOOD WORK" Free gear/money
Blood work incentives and how to take bloods! Only at PSL Let us PROVE it.... "WE WILL PAY FOR YOUR BLOOD WORK" Free gear/money




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Our customers recognizes our product line as superior in quality and when members read the name PSL we're confident it will be synonymous in their minds with integrity and excellence..

As the team supervisor, I believe that the ultimate customer satisfaction is the synergy between our company and our central focus on our customers needs..
Emphasizing on our ability to quickly deliver quality & authentic products at the same-time providing a nurturing business relationship with our clients and friends alike.

It's with these very notions, our pledge to you, our unwavering dedication and commitment to not only meet your needs, we'll aim far to exceed your expectations with a genuine & exceptional experience each and every single time..

Our customers needs and exceeding their expectations has never been more important, be that as it may not only as healthy nurturing business relationship, even so a long lasting friendship!

Blood work incentives and how to take bloods! Only at PSL Let us PROVE it...."WE WILL PAY FOR YOUR BLOOD WORK"
~read at the bottom how to earn store credit for posting your blood work~
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~How to take bloods~
Checking your HGH serum levels through blood work!
(Textbook testing for therapeutic levels vs 4-10ius is far different)

In today's age we are limited to testing methods when testing our HGH serum levels due to expense factors.. Though direct HGH serum blood work seems to be the only practical method we have available when it concerns "Meat Heads on a budget" such as PrivateLabs/labcorp, it's known as a "Crude method" like all blood work, however it's a good indicator of where we came from, where we are, and where we are going!

Before we begin, I want to reiterate the fact that there are different testing methods that will yields different results and please read about Testosterone and HGH..

The protocol below is focused around HGH, but please read about the types of tests that would still apply for "TESTOSTERONE" serum readings and a more accurate final report..
For Testosterone LONG esters: 4-5 weeks out is best for a more accurate serum reading, this is the gold standard with 3 days after last injection.. The testing assy that is selected will provide a different result thus is it highly recommending to use a sensitive test that is NOT capped (some tests cap off after 1500, LC MS-MS will not cap) , ::LC MS-MS FEMALE TEST CLICK HERE:: <--- cheapest and best option for TESTOSTERONE SERUMS
You do NOT need to be fasted for testosterone levels..

Types of tests:
ECLIA vs LC MS-MS; ECLIA Method which is short for "Electrochemiluminescent Immunoassay".. It’s a fast and affordable method to measure total hormones in your blood. Many labs and hospitals (ER's) use this method because it’s automatic and doesn’t require too much work on a lab technician’s part, it's simply the standard affordable method done by most clinics for blood tests..It's not reliable or entirely accurate..It's simply just a "standard generic method", fast turn around, nothing more, nothing less...It's simply just a fast, quick snap shot for the moment to give almost instant results, so it's somewhat accurate for that sole purpose when it concerns "Just tell me whats going on now, yes or no"...

LC MS-MS Method is short for "liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry". It’s considered the gold standard method by many researchers in measuring small molecules. Its accuracy and consistency is why the CDC is recommending LC/MS to be the standard method used when testing HGH/IGF or even total testosterone. Because LC/MS is more sensitive than ECLIA, doctors typically use this method when testing patients with really low levels with HGH or even again - testosterone levels, and testing individuals such as women and children. While it’s more accurate and sensitive, the LC/MS method is more expensive than ECLIA. And it takes a bit longer to get your results...Always place into great consideration that with the LC MS-MS method it will be more pronounced with measuring specific concentrations..

The truth of the matter is, HGH serum levels only validates it's legitimacy NOT potency because testing results will vary "dramatically" from each individual to the next.. Testing HGH levels is a crude method at best, at the same time providing a keen indication on what's taken place.. IGF levels would be the best testing to provide if there is any REAL activity, however this method for HGH serum is decent enough to show something..

Testing for IGF serum levels is one of the better methods to assure the quality, in which will help validate the authenticity of the product!

FYI; Always have a baseline, knowing your baseline is pivotal especially if you have a history with testing and having a complete understanding of what your REAL baseline is, this way comparisons can be applied from prior dates to future instances, or even protocols, as there's numerous variables that may effect results..

Test pricing can range from $75-$125 in some cases for a HGH panel http://www.privatemdlabs.com/Testing HGH serum through a blood panel is NOT the current lab standard, IGF levels establish the effectiveness of TRUE HGH levels,and they are seen and recognized by a labs aspect as the RELIABLE standard (depending on time of day, diet and/or the influence of injection of HGH(exogenous) other then natural levels (endogenous ),However, I'm not suggesting that HGH labs are poor with inaccuracy, in fact I'm going to implementing that it's a GREAT alternative compared to the expensive lab standards, as it can provide overwhelming evidence if your HGH is in fact real HGH..

Now, if your utilizing HGH through subq/IM administration (exogenous influence) your levels will spike approximately 3 hrs after administration, an IFG analysis is completely unnecessary UNLESS you have tested prior for baseline levels and wish to compare, the simple HGH serum test will yield a sufficient readout if in fact your HGH is legit or not, as your HGH serum will stand far outside of the standard reference range.. FACT- This is a proven method to determine a YES or NO.. (Its's suggested to do a pre base line readings on HGH & IGF levels for comparison)
Also, always keep notes when testing, with each pre and after test method..

Preparing for Blood test (6-10ius pre testing)

There's a lot of controversy in regards to fasting vs finding it unnecessary.. There's some truth behind this for great reason, such as fasting enhances growth hormone secretion and amplifies the complex rhythms of growth hormone secretion in men (when testing natural levels), levels can be very infrequent and erratic, especially during a fed state, as many nutrients posses an unpredictable effect on GH release in most people..(metabolization sensitivity will vary).. However, when testing 3hrs after IM injection of HGH fasting has been proven to be irrelevant to serum levels (in some/most patients).In order to rule out and opposing factors that can be questionable with manipulation through serum levels, it is SUGGESTED to fast 6-10 hrs pre-blood drawing so levels are NOT BLUNTED. Carbohydrate intake should be lowered considerably 24 hrs prior, up until 6-10 hrs fast, there after no consumption (glucose may suppress GH release effecting spike levels)..

Injection spot: IMO it is best to use a site that has little to NO scar tissue, and is NOT a frequented injection site of the user. The Bicep is a GREAT option due to more virgin tissue opposed to the delt region as most users opt for that area for oils.
Dosages and Serum levels to expect

6-8ius can yield 15-50 ng/mL as ranges can vary (this has been proven in real life experiences, regardless of the quality, generic or US Pharma grade,some user do NOT respond well with HGH injections, fact this is why it's suggested to keep notes from prior testing) Toss text book reads out the window!

Remain inactive pre-testing

As Further recommendations have it, absolutely no strenuous or rigorous stimulation through activities such as running, walking, or exercising, anything that can stimulation hormonal levels and HGH secretions..
Consumption of water is fine, a glass or 2 will NOT hurt, but limit hrs up until testing..
The usage of alcohol and/or tobacco is entirely prohibited, and not recommended, especially alcohol.. cease all consumption 72hrs prior due to the brake down enzymes and glucose levels and pancreases secretions from alcohol..

Recap-

6-10 ius (IM) 3 hrs pre testing (subq administration possess a slower rate with metabolizing in some users, IM has proven a 2-6 fold in levels)
Fasting is recommended, but not necessary (suggested 6-10 hrs pre)
Limit carb intake to absolute minimum
Consumption of water is OK if limited to 1 glass or 2, and not 3 hrs pre testing
No strenuous activities under any circumstances before testing
The use of alcohol and tobacco and other drugs should be completely eliminated 72 hrs prior to testing

I usually get blood work done before going on a new gear cycle, and then again 6 weeks into the cycle. I don't often engage in the typical 4 month long cycle durations that I see many guys here talk about. Too much health risk potential as far as I'm concerned. I focus the blood work on liver reading, (ALT, AST, but especially GGT). I watch the cholesterol readings too, but I don't get concerned about them being slightly elevated. I order the bloods online because I don't want my doctor involved since I don't let him know about my AAS use, and I also do not want my insurance companies finding out either. So I have to pay for bloods myself. Once in awhile I'll also get the Free T3 and TSH thyroid levels done with the bloods too.

I never go to the lab for anything.....Ever

Abombs said:

I never go to the lab for anything.....Ever

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Blood work here is cheap here so I get it done often I also donate blood once or twice a years depending on what I'm doing

custom said:

Blood work here is cheap here so I get it done often I also donate blood once or twice a years depending on what I'm doing

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Huge addition, giving a pint here and there..

I’m on business in Arizona. Where do I get bloods? Not sure about labs. Isn’t there one online that you can buy and they send it to a local lab?


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I'd go more if it wasnt illegal in this state.

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I used to do bloods way more often when I started. Usually it's about twice a year now, and during a cruise. I make sure and donate 2-3 times a year also.

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Abombs said:

I never go to the lab for anything.....Ever

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you've really become a slackkker! smh in disappoint lol

Either half the people in this poll are telling a lie or the guys who don’t do bloods aren’t going to bother answering lol

I did once when i first started like ago years ago. Shame on me

damn it Gunrack!

GUNRACK said:

I did once when i first started like ago years ago. Shame on me

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I do but it still wont save me from premature death. I've done enough stupid things in my life to shave a few years off of it.

I take bloods pre, during & after a 12 week cycle. I look at it as a science experiment. Mastering your endocrine system by optimizing the important numbers, while running gear.
The boards here have helped a lot. I’ve finally got my sugar and blood pressure in check & now I’m working on my LDL cholesterol without taking toxic meds from the doc.
Looking at bloods also saves me money in the long run. I’ve tried many vitamin protocols trying to improve my bloodwork. Once I realize that the vitamin isn’t actually improving my numbers, I stop buying them.
Last I use my bloodwork to learn how much gear my body can tolerate with positive results.
It’s a fun hobby & in the end when I die, I expect to have wrung out all of its genetic potential for as long as I was expected to live. I don’t mind missing out on the years of being in a wheelchair & shitting in a bag with a permanent shocked face, while drooling on myself.


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mjrpowerlifting said:

I take bloods pre, during & after a 12 week cycle. I look at it as a science experiment. Mastering your endocrine system by optimizing the important numbers, while running gear.
The boards here have helped a lot. I’ve finally got my sugar and blood pressure in check & now I’m working on my LDL cholesterol without taking toxic meds from the doc.
Looking at bloods also saves me money in the long run. I’ve tried many vitamin protocols trying to improve my bloodwork. Once I realize that the vitamin isn’t actually improving my numbers, I stop buying them.
Last I use my bloodwork to learn how much gear my body can tolerate with positive results.
It’s a fun hobby & in the end when I die, I expect to have wrung out all of its genetic potential for as long as I was expected to live. I don’t mind missing out on the years of being in a wheelchair & shitting in a bag with a permanent shocked face, while drooling on myself.


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I couldn't have said that any better. and I agree with your standpoint with taking certain supplementation and your markers do not improve whatsoever or at least significantly..
I will tell you what though, pulling bloods can sometimes scare the bejesus out of you. 4 years many of us have done things and we felt impervious and everything appeared good on the surface so why would we question? All the sudden we get a spreadsheet with our lab work and it's a complete game-changer that can ruin your day. Especially for us older lions..

Bump excellent info. I give blood regular and eat bloods pulled

I get blood work every now and then


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More often now. Like quarterly.
I'll be 34 this month and it seems more important as I get older.

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CompoundLifts31 said:

More often now. Like quarterly.
I'll be 34 this month and it seems more important as I get older.

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Im right there with you on the "older I get part".. man, markers change a lot the older we get, and diet and nutrition breakdown has a LOT to do with it as well..

Now, quarterly. No exceptions. A year ago it was annually or every six months

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You should get bloods every 3 months. Lets not forget lipid panel and a standard comp panel to go along with hormone panel. Check your BP at home once a week and it doesn't hurt to watch your glucose. If you are not watching it WILL catch up to you and you will end up in a bad place . Be safe - your family and friends would like you to stick around -Luck-OD

Big true. I'm on bp pills and use a cpap.

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GUNRACK said:

I did once when i first started like ago years ago. Shame on me

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Dang it, it’s supposed to say, i did once like ten years ago. Definitely overdue

GUNRACK said:

Dang it, it’s supposed to say, i did once like ten years ago. Definitely overdue

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I'd get on it asap. All sorts of issues could be avoided if you stay on top of labs.

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Bump

I typically get bloods done 3-4x a year. Bloodwork tells you everything you need to know and IMO is so important to having longevity in this game


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TBH, I'm hit and miss with bloods. I'm at that age where every time I go to the doc for a sniffle, they want to do labwork, so I just kind of rely on it and then look at them when they get done for my own concerns. So far, so good. It might bite me in the ass down the road, but I'm willing to live with the consequences. But I'm not doing anything crazy with cycles either. Zero orals. And very mild pinning routines. The human body can withstand a lot of abuse so long as you don't go overboard. Just think of all the lifelong smokers, drinkers, addicts, junk food junkies, etc, that have been going all out for decades on end. Yeah, sometimes it does catch up with them, but like I said, the body can withstand a LOT of abuse.

Be smart, stay healthy.

Quarterly. I donate every 3 months or so.

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I get it twice a year for TRTand then usually at least once during cycle. I prefer to get it twice but that doesn’t always happen.


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