Short answer: The Defense Health Agency guideline of September 17, 2026 diagnoses testosterone deficiency with a total testosterone under 300 ng/dL on two morning fasting specimens, plus consistent symptoms.
How the testing works
The draws are taken in the morning, between 0700 and 1000. The guideline's testing conditions call for the draw to come at least 30 days after training that includes extreme physical or mental distress or sleep deprivation. Hard training blocks, field exercises, and crash diets are part of why a single low number often means little.
What treatment is for
The guideline says therapy treats a confirmed deficiency that is causing symptoms. It is not a performance enhancer, and the evidence does not show better energy, physical performance, or thinking in men whose levels are normal. It does say therapy has demonstrated benefit for sexual function and improves body composition and bone mineral density.
In our practice we follow the same sequence: two morning fasting draws before any prescription, plus LH and FSH.
Related: What bloodwork belongs on TRT.
Talk to us
Hew Health is a private, cash-pay practice in Destin and Orlando, Florida, with telemedicine in 47 states. We are not TRICARE and not part of military medicine. Request a consultation at hewhealth.com or call (850) 820-8850. Discounted pricing is available for military, law enforcement, and first responders.
Hew Health is a private medical practice and is not affiliated with the Department of Defense, TRICARE, or any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. General information as of November 8, 2026, not medical advice. Individual results vary. Testosterone is a Schedule III controlled substance.