Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and anabolic steroid. It plays a vital role in the development and maintenance of male reproductive tissues as well as promoting secondary sex characteristics such as increased muscle mass and bone density, growth of body hair, and deepening of the voice. Testosterone also contributes to sex drive, sperm production, fat distribution, red blood cell production, and mood.
Testosterone is mainly secreted by the testicles in men and the ovaries in women, although small amounts are also secreted by the adrenal glands. It is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPG axis). When testosterone levels drop below normal, the hypothalamus releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which signals the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These hormones then signal the testes to increase testosterone production.
Some key facts about testosterone:
- Primary androgen (male sex hormone)
- Controls development of male reproductive tissues
- Drives secondary sex characteristics in men
- Vital for muscle growth, bone density, libido, mood, and energy
- Secreted mainly by testes in men and ovaries in women
- Regulated by HPG axis feedback loop
- Levels peak during puberty and early adulthood
- Declines slowly with age
Normal testosterone levels differ between men and women. In men, normal levels are between 300-1000 ng/dL. Levels below 300 ng/dL can cause low energy, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and depressed mood.
In women, normal testosterone levels are 15-70 ng/dL. High levels in women can lead to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), infertility, obesity, excessive facial/body hair growth, and an enlarged clitoris. Low testosterone in women can also cause low libido.
If you think you may have low or high testosterone, get your levels tested by a medical professional. Bloodwork is needed to accurately measure testosterone.
Hormone Harmony Clinic offers complete testosterone testing, treatment, and ongoing monitoring for men and women. Our experienced physicians will diagnose the underlying cause of your testosterone imbalance and create a customized treatment plan to restore your levels. We offer testosterone injections, gels, pellets and other proven therapies to improve your health, vitality and quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation - we're here to help get your testosterone back on track!