Testosterone

The role of testosterone in the body

Testosterone is the main male sex hormone (androgen), although it is also present in women. It plays a key role in:

For men:

• Development of primary and secondary sexual characteristics (growth of the genitals, male-type hair, low voice).
• Spermatogenesis (formation of spermatozoa).
• Increase in muscle mass and strength.
• Fat distribution (less subcutaneous fat).
• Maintaining libido and erectile function.
• Influence on mood, energy, and cognitive functions.
• Strengthening of bone tissue.

For women:

• Maintaining libido.
• Regulation of muscle mass and strength.
• Influence on mood and energy.
• Participation in ovarian function.

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Symptoms of testosterone deficiency (hypogonadism)

For men:

• Decreased libido and erectile dysfunction.
• Reduced muscle mass and strength.
• Increased body fat (especially in the abdominal area).
• Fatigue, depression, irritability.
• Reducing the growth of facial and body hair.
• Gynecomastia (breast augmentation).
• Osteoporosis (reduced bone density).
• Hot flashes, sweating.
• Reduced testicular volume.

For women:

• Decreased sexual desire.
• Chronic fatigue.
• Depression, mood swings.
• Reduced muscle tone.

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Symptoms of excess testosterone

For men:

• Increased aggressiveness, irritability.
• Acne.
• Male pattern baldness.
• Increased hematocrit (risk of thrombosis).
• Enlarged prostate (risk of adenoma).
• Infertility (due to suppression of spermatogenesis at high doses).

For women:

• Hirsutism (excessive hair growth on the face and body).
• Acne, oily skin.
• Violation of the menstrual cycle.
• Voice coarsening.
• Clitoral enlargement.
• Androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness).

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The norm of testosterone in the blood

Note: The reference values may vary depending on the laboratory.

Important points:

• In men, the level of testosterone decreases with age (after 30 years-about 1% per year).
• In women, the level changes during the cycle (maximum at ovulation).
• It is better to take the analysis in the morning (peak secretion – 7-9 am).

If an imbalance is suspected, you should also check LH, FSH, prolactin, SHBG, and estradiol.