Why Is Testosterone Essential

Why Is Testosterone Essential

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, and it plays a vital role in many aspects of health. It helps with the growth of muscles and bones, supports mood and energy, and is needed for a healthy heart and metabolism. Testosterone is also linked to reproductive health and sexual function. Both men and women make testosterone, though men usually have much higher levels. This shows why testosterone is essential for overall well-being, not just for building strength or showing masculine traits.

Many people only think about testosterone during puberty, when boys’ voices change and facial hair starts to grow. But the hormone has a much broader role. It is made mainly in the testes in men, and in smaller amounts in the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. The brain helps to control how much testosterone the body makes, keeping it balanced at the correct levels.

In this blog, we will explore how testosterone works in the body and why it is so important. You will learn how it affects growth and development, as well as muscle, bone and mental health. We will also look at what happens when levels are too low, how this can be treated, and simple lifestyle choices that may help to keep testosterone at a healthy level.

Understanding Testosterone: What It Is and Where It Comes From

Testosterone is a hormone. A hormone is a chemical messenger that tells the body what to do. Testosterone belongs to a group of hormones called androgens, which are linked to growth, strength, and reproduction. The body makes testosterone from cholesterol, which is a type of fat found in our cells.

In men, most testosterone is made in the testes. In women, smaller amounts are made in the ovaries and in the adrenal glands, which are small organs above the kidneys. Even though women have less testosterone than men, it is still significant for their health.

The brain also helps control the amount of testosterone the body makes. The hypothalamus, a part of the brain, sends signals to another gland called the pituitary. The pituitary then tells the testes or ovaries how much testosterone to release. This process keeps the body in balance (National Library of Medicine).

When testosterone enters the blood, it can act directly on parts of the body, like muscles and bones. It can also change into two other hormones. One is called dihydrotestosterone, which helps with hair growth and male development. The other is oestrogen, which people often call a female hormone, but men need it too, especially for strong bones (NIH).

In simple terms, testosterone is produced by the glands and is controlled by the brain. Together, they make sure the body grows, develops, and stays healthy.

Development, Masculinisation and Reproductive Health

Testosterone is most famous for the changes it causes as boys grow into men, but it starts working even before birth. During pregnancy, testosterone helps form the male reproductive organs in a baby. Later in life, it continues to shape growth and development, especially at puberty.

At puberty, testosterone levels rise quickly in boys. This causes the voice to deepen, muscles to grow, and hair to appear on the face and body. It also helps bones become stronger and gives boys the taller, more solid body shape of a man. In girls, smaller amounts of testosterone support bone health and play a role in puberty as well.

In adulthood, testosterone is vital for reproductive health. In men, it controls sperm production and keeps the sex drive (libido) healthy. In women, it also plays a role in sexual desire and reproductive function. This shows that testosterone is essential for both men and women, though in different amounts.

Here is a simple table showing testosterone’s key roles at different stages of life:

Testosterone, from before birth through to adulthood, plays a role in shaping the body and supporting healthy reproductive systems. Without it, many key parts of growth and health would not happen properly.

Understanding Testosterone Imbalance

Testosterone is an important hormone for both men and women. In men, levels rise sharply during adolescence and gradually begin to decline after the age of 30. When testosterone levels become too low or too high, a variety of health issues can occur.

Low Testosterone in Men (Hypogonadism)

When testosterone levels drop below normal, men may experience:

• Reduced sex drive
  
  
• Erectile dysfunction (ED)
  
  
• Low sperm count
  
  
• Increased body fat
  
  
• Reduced bone density
  
  
• Loss of body hair
  
  
• Decreased muscle mass
  
  

If untreated, long-term low testosterone can contribute to osteoporosis, infertility, and depression.

High Testosterone in Men

Excess testosterone can cause early puberty in boys and, in adults, may lead to:

• Increased libido
  
  
• Heart and liver complications
  
  
• Mood swings and irritability
  
  
• Acne or oily skin
  
  
• Enlarged prostate
  
  
• Frequent headaches
  
  

Testosterone in Women

Women naturally need much lower levels of testosterone (15–70 ng/dL) compared to men (300–1,000 ng/dL). However, imbalances can still have noticeable effects.

High testosterone in women may cause:

• Excess facial and body hair (hirsutism)
  
  
• Deepening of the voice
  
  
• Male-pattern hair loss
  
  

Low testosterone in women may cause:

• Persistent fatigue
  
  
• Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
  
  
• Reduced muscle strength and bone density
  
  
• Infertility
  
  
• Low sex drive
  
  
• Vaginal dryness
  
  

Causes of Testosterone Imbalance

Testosterone imbalance can result from:

• Genetic or congenital conditions (present at birth)
  
  
• Age-related decline
  
  
• Chronic illnesses
  
  
• Hormonal disorders
  
  
• Certain medications or lifestyle factors
  
  

How Age Affects Testosterone Production

A gradual decline in testosterone is a natural part of the ageing process. This condition, known as late-onset hypogonadism, typically develops in middle-aged and older men.

Research shows that testosterone levels in men drop by about 1.6% each year after the age of 40. As a result, nearly 40% of men over 45 may experience low testosterone.

The symptoms of late-onset hypogonadism often overlap with the typical signs of ageing, such as:

• Reduced energy levels
  
  
• Decreased muscle mass and strength
  
  
• Increased body fat
  
  
• Lowered sex drive
  
  
• Mood changes and irritability
  
  
• Difficulty concentrating
  
  

Because these changes can be mistaken for “just getting older,” low testosterone often goes undiagnosed without proper testing.

Signs and Symptoms of Low Testosterone

Doctors start by looking at your symptoms to see if you might have low testosterone (low T). If they think you do, they will ask you to take some blood tests.

Main Tests for Low Testosterone

• Total Testosterone Test
  
  This test measures the total amount of testosterone in your blood.
•  
• Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Test
  
  FSH is made by the brain (in the pituitary gland) and helps control sperm production. If your FSH is low, it may mean the problem is in the brain, not the testes.
  
  
• Luteinising Hormone (LH) Test
  
  LH also comes from the pituitary gland. It tells the testes to make testosterone. If LH is low, your testes may be fine, but your pituitary gland may not be sending the right signals.
  
  

How the Tests Are Done

These tests are like a routine blood test. A small amount of blood is taken from your arm and sent to a lab.

• Best time for the test: Between 8 and 10 in the morning, when testosterone levels are highest.
  
  
• Food: Sometimes you may be asked not to eat before the test, as some foods can lower testosterone.
  
  
• Repeat tests: The test is usually done more than once to ensure accuracy.
  
  

What Causes Low Testosterone Levels?

Low testosterone (low T) can happen for many reasons. Some people are born with it, while others develop it later in life.

Causes of Low T in Men

• Genetic conditions such as Klinefelter’s syndrome or Kallmann syndrome
  
  
• Injury or illness affecting the testicles
  
  
• Problems with the pituitary gland (a gland in the brain that controls hormones)
  
  
• Problems with the hypothalamus (another part of the brain that controls hormones)
  
  
• Certain medicines
  
  
• Low thyroid function (underactive thyroid)
  
  

Causes of Low T in Women

• Adrenal tumours (growths on the adrenal glands)
  
  
• Chemotherapy (used for cancer treatment)
  
  
• Severe malnutrition (not getting enough nutrients)
  
  
• Congenital ovarian hyperplasia (a condition present from birth)
  
  
• Ovarian tumours
  
  
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  
  

Next Steps After Diagnosis

Once low T is found, your doctor will try to discover the cause.

• If it is due to lifestyle habits – such as too much alcohol or being overweight – they may suggest changes to help raise your testosterone naturally and improve your health.
  
  
• If testosterone cannot be increased naturally, doctors may recommend testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
  
  

Fighting Back Against Low Testosterone With TRT

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a treatment for adult men with low testosterone. It can help improve symptoms, but it’s still uncertain how well it works for older men.

How TRT Works

TRT uses man-made testosterone to replace what your body is not making enough of. It can be given in different ways:

• Injections
  
  
• Skin creams or gels
  
  
• Patches
  
  
• Pellets placed under the skin

TRT should always be done under a doctor’s care.

Things to Consider

Each type of TRT has pros and cons. Before starting treatment, talk with your doctor about:

• How is it given
  
  
• Possible side effects
  
  
• How well it works
  
  
• The cost
  
  

Monitoring During Treatment

Once you begin TRT, your doctor will arrange regular check-ups. These are important to:

• Measure your testosterone levels.
  
  
• Check for side effects.
  
  
• Adjust your dose if needed.
  
  

What Are the Benefits of TRT?

Raising testosterone levels through testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can offer several benefits for men with low testosterone.

Main Benefits of TRT

• Increase Muscle Mass and Reduce Fat
  
  Testosterone helps build and maintain muscle. More muscle also means more calories burned, which can lead to fat loss. Studies show that men often gain lean muscle and lose fat after starting TRT.
  
  
• Stronger Bones
  
  Testosterone increases bone density, making bones stronger and less likely to break. Healthy bones support muscles, protect organs, and improve overall strength and mobility.
  
  
• Better Sexual Health
  
  Low testosterone can reduce sex drive and cause erectile dysfunction. TRT can boost libido and improve sexual performance in men with low T.
  
  
• Sharper Thinking
  
  Higher testosterone levels may improve memory, problem-solving, and mental focus. Some studies suggest TRT helps men process information faster and remember things more clearly.
  
  
• Improved Mood
  
  Low T is linked to fatigue, irritability, depression, and mood swings. TRT can help lift mood, boost motivation, increase energy, and improve overall well-being.
  
  

Key Functions of Testosterone in Men

When Should You Talk to Your Doctor About TRT?

If you think low testosterone is affecting your daily life, it’s essential to see your doctor. They can check your hormone levels and discuss whether testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is right for you.

Important Things to Know

• TRT isn’t for everyone – it can have side effects and may make certain conditions worse.
  
  
• Men with prostate cancer or breast cancer are usually advised not to take TRT.
  
  
• Before prescribing TRT, your doctor will carry out tests to confirm low testosterone and check your overall health.
  
  

If you are a good candidate, your doctor will explain the treatment options and monitor you regularly to make sure TRT is safe and effective.

Side Effects of TRT

Like all treatments, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can have side effects. Not every man will experience them, but some commonly reported ones include:

• Acne or oily skin
  
  
• Reduced sperm count
  
  
• Infertility (difficulty having children)
  
  
• Swelling or tenderness in the breasts
  
  
• Fluid retention (feeling bloated or puffy)
  
  
• More frequent urination
  
  

Because of these risks, men on TRT should have regular check-ups. This allows doctors to monitor testosterone levels, watch for side effects, and adjust treatment if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)?

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a medical treatment used to restore testosterone levels in men with low testosterone. It can be given through injections, gels, patches, or pellets and helps improve symptoms like fatigue, low sex drive, and muscle loss.

How do I know if I have low testosterone levels?

You may have low testosterone if you experience symptoms such as low sex drive, tiredness, mood changes, or reduced muscle mass. A doctor can confirm it by ordering blood tests for testosterone levels, usually in the morning when levels are highest.

What causes low testosterone in men?

Ageing, genetic conditions, testicular injury, pituitary gland disorders, or lifestyle factors like obesity and alcohol use can cause low testosterone in men. Identifying the root cause of low T is essential before starting treatment, such as TRT.

Can low testosterone affect fertility?

Yes, low testosterone can reduce sperm production and lower fertility in men. Testosterone replacement therapy can also lower sperm count, so men trying to conceive should discuss alternative treatments with their doctor.

What are the benefits of TRT for men with low testosterone?

The benefits of TRT for men with low testosterone include improved muscle mass, reduced body fat, stronger bones, better mood, sharper thinking, and improved sexual health. These benefits can significantly enhance the quality of life when monitored safely.

What are the common side effects of TRT?

Common side effects of testosterone replacement therapy include acne, oily skin, breast tenderness, fluid retention, more frequent urination, and reduced sperm count. Regular medical check-ups help manage these side effects and keep TRT safe.

Is TRT safe for older men with low testosterone?

The safety of TRT for older men with low testosterone is still being studied. While some men benefit from more energy, stronger bones, and improved sexual health, there may also be risks such as prostate problems or heart issues that require monitoring.

How long does it take for TRT to work?

The results of TRT vary, but many men notice improvements in energy, mood, and sex drive within a few weeks. Increases in muscle mass, bone strength, and fat loss may take several months of consistent testosterone therapy.

Final Thoughts: Why Testosterone Matters

Testosterone is a male sex hormone that plays a crucial role in the formation of red blood cells, muscle growth, body fat distribution, and sperm production. Women also need testosterone, but in smaller amounts.

Men with low testosterone should get medical help if their health is getting worse. Discuss your medical history and symptoms with your doctor to determine the cause and initiate treatment. If you need testosterone replacement therapy, we can help. Our specialist doctors provide personalised TRT plans to address your needs and improve your overall well-being. Contact us to begin your treatment journey.