Testosterone: What It Means for Your Health
Testosterone is the primary androgen (male sex hormone), produced mainly in the testes in men and in smaller amounts by the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. It regulates muscle mass, bone density, fat distribution, red blood cell production, sex drive, and mood. Testosterone levels naturally decline with age in men (about 1-2% per year after age 30). In women, testosterone plays important roles in libido, energy, and bone health.
Reference Range
Reference ranges may vary between laboratories, age groups, and sexes. The values shown are general adult reference ranges. Always compare your results to the specific range provided by your testing laboratory.
What Is Testosterone?
Testosterone is the primary androgen (male sex hormone), produced mainly in the testes in men and in smaller amounts by the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. It regulates muscle mass, bone density, fat distribution, red blood cell production, sex drive, and mood. Testosterone levels naturally decline with age in men (about 1-2% per year after age 30). In women, testosterone plays important roles in libido, energy, and bone health.
Commonly included in:
What Does High Testosterone Mean?
In men, elevated testosterone may indicate anabolic steroid use, testicular or adrenal tumors, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia. In women, high testosterone is commonly associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), causing acne, excess hair growth (hirsutism), irregular periods, and infertility. Other causes in women include adrenal tumors and congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
What Does Low Testosterone Mean?
Low testosterone in men (hypogonadism) causes fatigue, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, loss of muscle mass, increased body fat, mood changes, and reduced bone density. Causes include aging, obesity, type 2 diabetes, chronic opioid use, pituitary disorders, and testicular injury. In women, low testosterone may contribute to reduced libido, fatigue, and decreased sense of well-being.
Related Biomarkers in Hormones
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for interpretation of your blood test results and before making any health decisions.