As the primary male sex hormone, testosterone can affect several aspects of overall health, from muscle mass and bone density to sexual health and libido.
When testosterone levels are low or otherwise imbalanced, it can result in changes to body fat, sex drive and even cognitive well-being.
Measuring and monitoring your testosterone levels with your healthcare provider’s guidance can help you maintain healthy, well-balanced levels and discover whether this hormone may be affecting other aspects of your health.
To help you learn more about testosterone, we sat down with Irene Cheung, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, a family nurse practitioner and clinical lead at Labcorp, who answered your top questions about this important hormone.
What is the role of testosterone and why is it essential for men’s health?
Testosterone is a hormone primarily produced in the testicles that affects multiple aspects of health and well-being.
“When people think of testosterone, muscle strength and physical health come to mind,” says Irene. “But this hormone influences a wide range of bodily functions, including sexual health, libido, bone density, mood regulation, energy levels and overall well-being.” It is also responsible for maintaining sperm production and red blood production.
“Beyond the physical, testosterone also influences your mental and emotional health,” adds Irene. “It plays a role in regulating mood, cognition and your overall sense of well-being.” There are a variety of complex factors influencing hormone fluctuations, and research is ongoing to better understand the many ways hormones affect the body and mind.
What factors influence testosterone levels?
It is normal to have a gradual decline in testosterone levels as you age.
However, low testosterone can occur in men of all ages. Many factors—including lifestyle habits, medical conditions, medications and genetics—can contribute to imbalanced hormone levels.
“It’s important to know that testosterone levels can fluctuate naturally with age, and individual variations do exist,” explains Irene. “Healthy aging practices, such as staying physically active, maintaining a well-balanced diet and managing stress, can help mitigate this decline.”
What are signs and symptoms of low testosterone in men?
The signs and symptoms of low testosterone (hypogonadism) will vary from person to person. However, some of the most common symptoms that Irene sees in patients with low testosterone include:
- Decreased libido: One of the most common signs of low testosterone is a decrease in libido, or interest in sexual activity. Low testosterone can contribute to erectile dysfunction (ED), making it difficult to achieve or maintain erections during sexual activity
- Low energy: If you're feeling unusually tired or fatigued, even after getting adequate rest, low testosterone levels could be a contributing factor
- Loss of muscle mass: If you notice a gradual loss of muscle mass, despite regular exercise, it could be a sign of low testosterone
- Increased body fat
- Mood changes
- Loss of body hair (e.g., loss of armpit or pubic hair)
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to reach out to a provider to determine if it is low testosterone or another health condition that may be contributing to your symptoms.
How does testosterone impact men's sexual health and fertility?
When testosterone levels are below the optimal range, it can affect men's sexual health.
“Testosterone influences erectile function by promoting adequate blood flow to the penis and supporting the tissues responsible for achieving and maintaining erections,” explains Irene. “Low testosterone levels may contribute to ED or difficulties in achieving or maintaining erections, but ED causes may be related to different contributing factors such as other hormones, muscles, blood vessels and nerves. ED can lead to frustration, anxiety and strain on relationships.”
In addition to sexual function, testosterone may affect sperm production and quality, potentially impacting fertility.
What should men know about managing their testosterone levels for optimal health?
If you experience symptoms of low testosterone, Irene recommends considering checking testosterone levels along with your routine bloodwork.
“Depending on your clinical situation, testosterone levels may be monitored annually or as recommended by your provider,” she says. “Regular screenings can help track testosterone levels over time, assess any fluctuations or abnormalities and guide appropriate interventions if needed.”
To support overall healthy testosterone levels, Irene recommends working with your provider on incorporating consistent wellness habits into your lifestyle. For example, she encourages a nutrient-rich diet full of lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, nuts and whole grains.
As for physical activity, Irene says that exercising regularly with strength training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) may help boost testosterone levels. However, she adds, it’s also important to engage in a mix of physical activities, such as cardiovascular exercises and resistance training, to support overall fitness and hormone balance.
Getting good quality sleep is also crucial for the regulation of hormones, including testosterone. Irene recommends aiming for seven to nine hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to support optimal hormone function.
Chronic stress can negatively impact testosterone levels as well. “I recommend stress-reducing and relaxing activities such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises and hobbies that bring you joy,” says Irene.
There are also testosterone supplements available in the market that claim to boost or increase testosterone levels, but their effectiveness and safety can vary. Some supplements can also interact with other medications. Before considering taking supplements, Irene recommends consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
What are the different types of blood tests that measure testosterone?
A total testosterone test provides an overall picture of your testosterone levels by measuring the total amount of testosterone in your bloodstream, including both bound (attached to proteins) and free (unattached) testosterone. It's useful for initial screening and assessment of testosterone status.
A free testosterone test measures the amount of unbound testosterone in your blood and is considered the “active” form of the hormone, available for use by your body’s tissues. This measurement is helpful for assessing testosterone available for immediate use by your body.
According to Irene, it’s important to know that your testosterone levels can vary throughout the day and may be influenced by various factors. It is generally recommended to test testosterone levels in the early morning when they are highest.
How important is it for men to have regular check-ups and screenings to monitor their testosterone levels and overall health?
Regular check-ups and screenings are not just routine appointments; they are proactive steps toward maintaining health and well-being.
“Regular check-ups with your provider can help detect health issues earlier, including changes in testosterone levels, hormonal imbalances and potential underlying conditions,” says Irene. “Providers can develop personalized health plans tailored to your unique needs. This may include lifestyle recommendations, medication management, screenings for specific conditions and referrals to specialists if necessary.”
Understanding your hormones and getting a comprehensive test can help you and your provider determine if your symptoms are linked to testosterone levels and explore potential treatment options. Empower yourself by purchasing a Comprehensive Testosterone Test to know your levels and create a plan to optimize your health.
