females produce testosterone

About Us

How Low Testosterone Affects Your Body and Mind: A Complete Guide NS Blog

How Low Testosterone Affects Your Body and Mind: A Complete Guide NS Blog

The test is commonly done by taking a blood sample, usually through a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm. In females, this test may also be used to assess conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can have symptoms like increased body hair, irregular periods, and other hormonal imbalances. The test can help determine if PCOS is causing abnormally high levels of testosterone. This test is commonly used to assess conditions that may have symptoms related to low testosterone levels. Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome (TDS) is a broader term that encompasses low testosterone levels accompanied by specific symptoms, such as reduced energy, mood disturbances, and impaired sexual function. While hypogonadism is a distinct medical diagnosis, TDS often refers to the clinical presentation of low testosterone, particularly in aging men.

These specialists can perform specific tests to measure testosterone levels accurately. The most common test used to measure testosterone levels is a blood test, which is typically done in the morning when testosterone levels are at their highest. Low testosterone levels can lead to a condition called hypogonadism, which can affect puberty and reproductive health. Symptoms of low testosterone include fatigue, reduced muscle mass, increased body fat, decreased libido, and erectile dysfunction. If your testosterone levels are low, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in hormone therapy or endocrinology. They can help determine the underlying cause of low testosterone and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Sometimes, other samples like saliva or urine can also be used to measure testosterone levels, although blood tests are the most common and accurate method. The testosterone blood test is the standard method for determining serum testosterone levels. A small blood sample, typically drawn in the morning when testosterone levels are at their highest, is analyzed in a laboratory.

This is because it directly measures the amount of testosterone in your blood, which is an indicator of your overall testosterone levels. While these symptoms may indicate low testosterone levels, it’s important to note that they can also be caused by other factors or medical conditions. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of the symptoms and whether a testosterone level check is necessary. Research suggests that low testosterone levels may be more common among young men today compared to previous decades. Multiple large-scale studies have shown that average testosterone levels in men, including adolescents and young adults, have been on the decline over the past few decades, according to Houman. In conclusion, recognizing the signs and symptoms of low testosterone is essential in order to seek appropriate treatment.

Be cautious about taking dietary supplements if you are pregnant or nursing. Also, be careful about giving supplements to a child, unless recommended by their healthcare provider. Your in-clinic healthcare provider is responsible for relaying the results of your in-clinic labs and discussing the potential consequences of the results. Some at-home-based labs have variable access to healthcare provider support for understanding the results. With proper diagnosis and the right treatment plan—whether that’s medical therapy, lifestyle changes, or both—you can regain your energy, mental clarity, and physical strength. If you are experiencing symptoms like delayed puberty, growth problems, or unexplained changes in your body, this test could help identify the underlying cause.

Included in each purchase is the option to discuss your test results with an independent physician; however, you are also encouraged to speak with your primary healthcare provider. Dr. Jayadevan adds that he sees guys every week who got a testosterone gel or injections from the internet. Testosterone, a hormone that acts as a chemical messenger, is important for both males and females. Too much or too little testosterone can lead to unwelcome symptoms and may be related to health conditions that require care. An abnormal testosterone test result doesn’t guarantee that you have a medical condition. Other factors, like certain medications and existing health conditions, can women take testosterone injections affect your test results.

And other research has shown that these chemicals, as their name suggests, can negatively impact the endocrine (hormone) center, leading to disruptions in hormone balance. Meanwhile, a 2017 study in Current Obesity Reports found that endocrine-disrupting chemicals can promote the accumulation of adipose (fat) tissue and cause weight gain. Typically, fasting is not necessary before getting your testosterone levels checked. However, it is always best to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the testing facility. They may recommend fasting if additional tests, such as cholesterol or glucose levels, are being done at the same time. In general, it’s recommended to have your testosterone levels checked at least once a year if you’re over 40 and have no symptoms or underlying health conditions.

If your results indicate low testosterone, your provider will discuss possible causes, such as aging, hypogonadism, or underlying medical conditions. Symptoms of low testosterone are particularly common in men over 40 and may require targeted interventions to address. Ultimately, the serum testosterone test is more than just a diagnostic tool—it offers a comprehensive view of your overall health. By collaborating with your healthcare provider to interpret the results, you can take meaningful steps to address any concerns and enhance your quality of life. Even if you don’t have any symptoms of low testosterone, it’s still good to get a blood test annually, she says.

For people with borderline-low testosterone levels, a repeat test would show a normal range about 30% of the time. The serum testosterone level test is a vital diagnostic tool for identifying and managing conditions such as low testosterone, elevated testosterone levels, and other hormonal imbalances. By providing a comprehensive overview of your hormone levels, this test plays a key role in guiding treatment decisions and promoting your overall health and well-being. Healthcare providers mainly order testosterone blood tests for males who have signs of low testosterone and females who have signs of high testosterone. Abnormal testosterone levels can point to several different health issues. Yes, there are home testing kits available that claim to measure testosterone levels. These kits usually require a blood or saliva sample that is sent off to a lab for analysis.

Man boobs, or moobs for short, are a common side effect of low testosterone and a great indicator that you should work to restore hormonal balance. According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism about 30% of men will experience gynecomastia, man boobs, at some point in their life. We often find ourselves in stressful everyday situations that affect us both physically and mentally. Read on to learn more about testosterone, typical levels for males and females, and what a high or low testosterone test result may mean.