Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone that is essential for development and maintenance of male characteristics. In short, testosterone is responsible for those traits we typically associate with "masculinity."
In more detail, testosterone:
- Plays a key role during puberty in boys and sparks the development of male sex characteristics like facial and body hair growth, deepened voice, increased muscle mass and strength.
- Is produced mainly in the testicles and smaller amounts are produced by the adrenal glands.
- Levels peak during adolescence and early adulthood. After age 30, testosterone levels slowly decline.
What does testosterone do in the body?
Testosterone performs several important functions including:
- Growth of body hair
- Muscle mass and strength
- Bone density and strength
- Sex drive (libido)
- Sperm production
- Fat distribution
- Red blood cell production
Symptoms of low testosterone
Some key symptoms of low testosterone levels include:
- Reduced sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Depressed mood
- Difficulties with concentration and memory
- Fatigue/low energy
- Loss of muscle mass
Testing testosterone levels
- A simple blood test can determine testosterone levels in men. Levels peak in the early morning, so it's best to get tested at that time.
- Normal total testosterone levels in adult men typically range from 280 to 1,100 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL).
- Levels below 300 ng/dL are considered low testosterone or hypogonadism. This can occur due to testicular trauma, infection, or other conditions.
- Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, but low T at any age may require hormone treatment. Discuss your symptoms and test results with your doctor at Balanced Hormones Clinic.
I hope this overview on what testosterone is and does provides some helpful background on this key male hormone. Let me know if you have any other questions!