Peak Performance: When should I delay testing?

There are certain situations where it’s best to postpone your test to ensure accurate and meaningful results. These include:
 
• Recent illness or injury Hormone levels can be temporarily disrupted by infections, inflammation, or physical trauma. It’s best to wait at least 2 weeks after full recovery before testing. 

• Heavy exercise in the past 24–48 hours Intense training can temporarily raise or lower hormones like cortisol, testosterone, and thyroid hormones. A rest day before testing gives a more accurate picture of your baseline. 

• Poor sleep or night shifts Sleep has a major impact on hormone production, especially cortisol and testosterone. Try to test after a regular night of sleep, avoiding testing after sleep disruption or shift work. 

• Acute psychological stress Emotional stress can elevate cortisol and prolactin, which may skew your results. If possible, wait until stress levels have settled. 

• Certain medications or supplements Some drugs and supplements (like steroids, DHEA, or biotin) can affect hormone readings. You should not stop any of your prescribed medications in order to take this test without consulting with your doctor first. 

• For women: testing at the wrong time in the cycle If you’re not using hormonal contraception, hormone levels can fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle. Testing is most accurate in the early follicular phase (days 2–5) of your cycle.