Testosterone is a very crucial hormone that regulates the production of sperm, promotes muscle mass, controls sex drive, and increases energy level. It is also responsible for human behavior such as competitiveness and aggression.

Our testosterone level gradually decreases as we age. Low testosterone levels could lead to various changes in our bodies. But we should understand that this phenomenon is just natural as we grow old.

What are the normal testosterone levels?

The normal testosterone levels in our bloodstream depend upon a number of factors such as protein status, thyroid function, and a lot more. The level depends mainly on the person’s sex, age, and health.

Usually, men have higher testosterone levels in their bodies than women.  According to the American Urological Association, men should have at least 300 ng/dL of testosterone level for it to be considered normal.

On the other hand, Mayo Clinic Laboratories identified that the normal range of testosterone levels of women ages 19 and above is from 8 ng/dL to 60 ng/dL. Usually, testosterone levels decline during women’s adulthood.

• In the womb

During pregnancy, we need to maintain healthy levels of testosterone for the normal development of the fetus. It is responsible for the growth of the male reproductive system. In fact, a study published in Science Direct has shown that testosterone is needed for the right development of the brain lobes.

• Adolescence to early adulthood

During this period, the testosterone levels are expected to reach their peak. During puberty, we can see visible signs of testosterone in boys. We can see that their facial structures become more masculine, their shoulders become broader, and their voices change.

• Adulthood

Every year, we should expect that about 1 percent of men’s testosterone levels will decline after they reach the age of 30. On the other hand, the level of testosterone of women declines from age 45 to 55 or after the menopausal period. The ovaries tend to produce fewer hormones, including testosterone.

Testosterone in men

Testosterone in men is produced by the testes. But the adrenal glands are also capable of producing a small amount of testosterone in our body. Testosterone is crucial for men mainly for sperm production, increased sex drive, development during puberty, and muscles and bones strength.

Lower testosterone levels in males can lead to the following:

• Hair loss

According to Urology Health, low testosterone levels can lead to hair loss. Unpredictable hair loss affects about 6.8 million Americans.

And this can affect anyone regardless of gender and age, although this condition usually starts from the age of 30. However, a study published in NCBI found out that there is no significant association between sex hormones and hair loss.

• Reduced muscle tone

A study published in NCBI explained that testosterone is a vital ingredient to develop and maintain muscle mass. If there is a diminution of testosterone in our body, our muscle mass will most likely diminish, which will also negatively affect our strength. This results in fatigue and weakness. 

• More fragile skin

Testosterone is widely used as a medication in the US, especially those who are 65 years old and above because of the adverse effects of low testosterone levels in our body such as cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and even fragile skin. 

Lower testosterone levels can also lead to a disturbed mood, memory problems, and reduced sex drive.

Testosterone in women

Testosterone in women is produced by the ovaries. The adrenal glands also produce a small amount of testosterone. Although the testosterone level of women is typically lower compared to men, it is vital for maintaining other hormones, making new blood cells, and increasing sex drive and fertility.

Lower testosterone levels in females can lead to the following:

• Fertility problems

According to Medical News Today, the level of testosterone decreases naturally as women age, especially after their menopausal stage. At that time, the ovaries produce fewer hormones. Women also take medications in order to be relieved from the side effects of menopause.  These factors lead to lower the testosterone level of women.

• Weak bones

According to a study published in NCBI, testosterone deficiency due to aging is one of the major factors of bone loss in both elderly men and women. In fact, osteoporosis is a common problem in the elderly population, which causes significant mortality and morbidity.

• Vaginal dryness

A study published in NCBI found out that low testosterone levels do not only decrease the sex drive, but it also results in vulvovaginal dryness. Women suffer from vaginal discomfort because of dryness, which eventually affects how they respond to sex. In fact, they recommend using estrogen therapies to treat vaginal dryness.

Aside from these, women also experience irregular or missed periods and low sex drive due to low testosterone levels.

Conclusion

Testosterone is a very powerful hormone that plays vital roles in our heart, blood, muscles, bones, mood, libido, and even our memory. But, the decrease in testosterone levels may be normal as you age.

If you are worried about low testosterone, you may seek help from a doctor. Although it’s natural to have a lower testosterone level as you age, some symptoms such as increased body fat, erectile dysfunction, and decreased muscle mass may be a sign of other health conditions.

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