Testosterone

What is testosterone?

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. It plays a vital role in men's health and wellbeing. Some key points about testosterone:

• Testosterone production starts during puberty and peaks in the late teens/early 20s. Levels gradually decline with age. Low testosterone (low T) is common in older men.


• Testosterone is produced mainly in the testicles. The pituitary gland in the brain controls production by releasing hormones.


• Key functions of testosterone include:

Muscle growth & strength
Testosterone increases muscle mass and strength. Men have more muscle than women largely due to higher testosterone levels.

Bone density
Testosterone promotes bone mineralization and density. Low T may increase osteoporosis risk.

Sex drive
Testosterone directly impacts libido and erections. Low T is associated with reduced sexual function.

Fat distribution
Testosterone helps decrease body fat and promotes lean muscle growth. Low T may increase tendency to gain belly fat.

Mood regulation
Testosterone plays a role in mood, motivation and confidence. Low T can negatively impact energy, mood and focus.

• Symptoms of low testosterone include low energy, reduced muscle mass, weight gain, erectile dysfunction, depression, and loss of body hair.

If you're experiencing potential low T symptoms, I recommend speaking with a hormone health specialist at Butterfly Hormone Center(/) to get your testosterone levels tested and discuss treatment options. Their team of physicians and nurse practitioners specialize in testosterone replacement therapy and customizing treatment plans to help men optimize their vitality, health and wellbeing.

I hope this gives you a helpful overview on what testosterone is, its key functions in men's health, and when to seek treatment for potential low testosterone levels. Let me know if you have any other questions!