Health Encyclopedia

Free Androgen Index

Does this test have other names?


What is this test?


Both men and women make male hormones called androgens, which include testosterone. During puberty, testosterone helps children develop into adults. As you age, levels of this hormone can fall. This causes health problems for both men and women.


Why do I need this test?


These hormones aid in the development of sex organs and other gender-linked traits. For example, androgens play a role in making the female hormone estrogen. When a woman makes too many androgen hormones, she may develop extra body and facial hair. With too little androgen hormones, a woman may become very tired, lose bone mass, or have little interest in sex.

If you are a woman, you may have this test if you have extra hair on your body or face. It's possible that unusual hair growth stems from an ovarian tumor or a condition called polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Among other things, PCOS causes your ovaries to make too much testosterone. Other symptoms of PCOS include obesity, an irregular menstrual cycle, and prediabetes or diabetes.

Testosterone helps boys develop male traits, and makes facial hair in men. If an adolescent boy isn't developing normally, certain organs might not be making enough of this hormone. Adult men who don't make enough testosterone may feel weak, lose muscle strength and mass, develop breasts, or lose interest in sex. 

What other tests might I have along with this test?

Your healthcare provider may also order these tests:

  • Total testosterone

  • Prolactin


  • Thyroid-stimulating hormone


  • Ferriman-Gallwey scale to measure whether you have an unusual amount of body hair (hirsutism)



  • 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP)


  • Ovarian ultrasound to find out if you have an ovarian tumor


What do my test results mean?


Test results vary by age, gender, and overall health. Normal FAI values generally range between 30 and 150 in men. Levels below 30 mean a possible testosterone deficiency. Women generally have FAI values of 7 to 10. Normal ranges of serum testosterone for adults are listed below.


  • 300 to 1,000 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL)

If you are male and your level of total testosterone falls below 200 ng/dL, you may be diagnosed with hypogonadism. This is an androgen deficiency that causes testosterone levels to drop.


  • 20 to 70 ng/dL

Your hormone levels may be affected by a temporary health condition, such as pregnancy. You may also have results that aren't clear and need to be retested. 

How is this test done?


Does this test pose any risks?


What might affect my test results?

If you are pregnant, your ovaries may make too much testosterone as part of a normal pregnancy. Having a tumor or cyst in your ovaries or adrenal gland can also cause your testosterone level to rise.

People with Cushing syndrome may also have higher levels of testosterone.

Certain medicines can affect hormone production, including some steroids and opiates. Let your healthcare provider know about any prescription medicine you take.  

How do I get ready for this test?


Medical Reviewers:

  • Hanrahan, John, MD
  • Sather, Rita, RN