Testosterone: What It Is, Function & Levels

Testosterone Test: Free & SHBG, High vs Low vs. Normal Levels

In that case, your doctor may prescribe an aromatase inhibitor like anastrozole or TRT. Testosterone levels peak during adolescence and early adulthood when men experience puberty and rapid growth. After age 30, testosterone levels slowly decline by approximately 1%-2% per year.

This test measures the level of the hormone testosterone in your blood. Testosterone is a male sex hormone (androgen) that helps male features develop. Testosterone is made in the testes in males, the ovaries in females, and in the adrenal glands. In this study, researchers obtained serum testosterone samples from men who had already had their testosterone levels assayed locally. Testosterone boosters are dietary supplements designed to increase testosterone levels naturally. They often contain herbal extracts, vitamins, and minerals that support testosterone production. While testosterone boosters are less potent than prescription medications, they may be beneficial for individuals with slightly low testosterone or those looking to support overall health.

Always consult with a board certified urologist for the most effective TRT program. Testosterone levels can vary depending on factors such as age, sex, and overall health. For men, normal levels generally range between 300 and 1,000 ng/dL. However, what is considered “normal” may differ slightly depending on the laboratory. Reviewing a testosterone levels-by-age chart can provide additional context and help you better understand your results. Beyond diagnosing testosterone-related conditions, this test is invaluable for guiding treatment decisions. For individuals undergoing testosterone replacement therapy, regular monitoring ensures that the treatment is both effective and safe.

Many men wonder if testosterone supplements might be the solution to their… Contact your primary care physician if you think you may have low T and want to address it. They can talk with you about natural ways to increase testosterone, like exercise. And if appropriate, they can refer you to a specialist called a urologist.

Written by Dr. Kia Michel, a board certified urologist, surgeon, and founding member of Comprehensive Urology in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. Dr. Michel’s expertise includes focal therapy (HIFU/TULSA), prostate cancer treatment, robotic surgery, and male enhancement treatments such as Shockwave Therapy for ED and penile injections. Locating TRT services can start with a consultation from a primary care physician or endocrinologist. Search online directories or medical websites to find experienced professionals offering TRT. It’s essential to choose a clinic or healthcare provider experienced in hormone treatments.

Regular follow-ups ensure the treatment’s effectiveness and safety. TRT Therapy can be done via a telehealth call if you do bloodwork at your local lab. An urologist can review your bloodwork and take your case history via secure video chat to prescribe a testosterone replacement therapy treatment program for you. You will need to follow up 2-3 months afterwards and have your testosterone levels checked to ensure you are on the correct dosage and TRT delivery method. Our experienced team can help determine whether a testosterone blood test is appropriate for you and guide you through the next steps.

“I think we should be worried about increasing prevalence of obesity, metabolic syndrome and diabetes combined with a sedentary lifestyle – all of which can contribute to testosterone deficiency,” Ramasamy wrote. Your healthcare provider can help you determine which formulation of testosterone is most suitable for you. One of the most common causes of high testosterone in women is a condition called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is characterized by enlarged ovaries with small cysts. The correct balance between testosterone and estrogen is crucial for the ovaries to work properly. Too much testosterone in females can lead to a deep voice, larger clitoris, and decrease in breast size. But be sure your healthcare provider knows about all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. This includes medicines that don’t need a prescription and any illegal drugs you may use.

Testosterone tests are performed to determine the amount of testosterone in a blood sample. While bound testosterone plays a vital role in the body, many bodily functions can only be stimulated by free testosterone. The information on healthmatters.io is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. Dive into a visual journey with our biomarker graphs, showcasing over 40 data points. Combining years of results unveils trends, empowering you to make informed decisions. Our visualization tools make it a breeze to compare and understand changes over time, even if your results are from different labs.

Finally, it’s thought that this negative feedback loop becomes overly sensitive with time, preventing testosterone release, even when testosterone levels are not particularly raised [5]. Testosterone levels are fairly even throughout adulthood for females. Certain conditions, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), can cause higher testosterone levels in females. Testosterone is essential in sex drive and sperm production in males. The hormone also affects sex drive in females, as well as the growth and development of muscles, bones, and organs. Your doctor may order a testosterone test if you are experiencing symptoms that suggest hormone levels outside of a normal range.

Yes, you can buy testosterone online, but be cautious of where you’re purchasing the hormone from. In order for a telehealth clinic or company to write a script for testosterone, they have to legally comply with the guidelines imposed by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). If you’ve been experiencing low testosterone symptoms, then it may be time to explore TRT. Testosterone injections are often the most popular form of TRT, and they’re pretty easy to do on your own.