What exactly is SHBG and how does it affect my TRT results?

Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) is a protein that acts as a carrier for testosterone, but it also dictates how much 'free' testosterone is actually available for your tissues to use. If your SHBG is too high, your total testosterone might look normal while your bioavailable levels remain low; conversely, low SHBG can cause your body to clear testosterone too quickly, often requiring more frequent dosing. At HeydayMD, our clinicians prioritize testing both SHBG and free testosterone to ensure your protocol is precisely calibrated for your unique physiology rather than relying on total T alone. This comprehensive approach helps us optimize your symptom relief while minimizing potential side effects from improper dosing.