Testosterone gets a bad rap.
People talk about ‘roid rage or testosterone rushes to describe anger or risk-taking in men. And don’t forget the negative correlation between high levels and toxic masculinity.
But testosterone is a naturally produced steroid hormone that is vital to the human body. It has also been called the “elixir of life” because of its importance in maintaining health and longevity in men.
So, let’s break it down.
What Is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a steroid hormone produced in the gonads, or sex organs, and the adrenal gland. Men produce it in the testes, while women produce it in the ovaries.
Wait, what? Women make testosterone?
Yes, it is a naturally occurring hormone in the female body. However, women have about one-tenth the amount of testosterone as men.
What Does It Do?
Testosterone is responsible for many male characteristics, including the development of the penis and testes. During puberty, male voices deepen as a result of testosterone, and pubic and facial hair begin to grow. It is also responsible for erections and sperm production.
The hormone plays a part in muscle and bone development and strength, as well as healthy organs. Sex drive, or libido, is also impacted by testosterone levels, as is mood. This is true for both males and females.
When men and women age, testosterone levels start to decline. This usually starts in the mid to late forties. In men, this is called LowT or andropause, and in women, it is part of perimenopause and menopause.
Symptoms include:
- Decreased sex drive.
- Low sperm count and trouble having an erection.
- Decrease in muscle size and strength, and increased body fat.
- Loss of bone density.
- Trouble concentrating and mood changes, such as depression.
If you have one or more of these symptoms, contact your medical provider to determine the cause and explore treatments. Low testosterone is one cause of these symptoms, but other illnesses and conditions can have the same or similar symptoms.
Test Your Levels
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, your medical provider will conduct blood tests to determine your testosterone levels. Additional blood tests may also be run in order to rule out the possibility of other conditions that have similar symptoms, such as medication interactions or thyroid disorders.
After the blood tests, your medical provider will go over your results and discuss treatment options. If you have low levels, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be an option to alleviate the symptoms and increase your quality of life. Treatment comes in many forms, including pills, gels, patches, injections, or implants, depending on your needs, lifestyle, and preference.
You do not have to live with the symptoms of low testosterone, and TRT can help. TRT and other hormone replacement therapies can ease symptoms, but can also be used to prevent diseases such as osteoporosis and heart disease.
With testosterone replacement therapy, your quality of life and longevity can be increased, allowing you to live your best life!
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By Anna Hartman, AKH Editing and Writing
