What is the average testosterone level for a male

According to the AUA, symptoms of low testosterone include tiredness, irritability, depression, reduced interest in sex, reduced lean muscle mass, and erectile dysfunction Urology Care Foundation, n. If you think you may have low testosterone, talk to a healthcare provider. Last updated April 24, Written by Grant Stoddard.

Disclaimer If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. Vitals Your testosterone levels depend largely on three factors: age, genetics, and existing medical conditions. In males, lower testosterone levels can lead to :. Low testosterone levels in females can lead to :.

High testosterone levels are unusual in adult males, while children with high testosterone levels may have a growth spurt or start puberty early.

High testosterone in all sexes can cause infertility , obesity, and in some cases, metabolic disorders. Polycystic ovary syndrome PCOS affects females. It occurs when the ovaries produce too much testosterone. It is not clear what causes PCOS, but researchers believe a combination of genes and environment may be responsible.

Anabolic steroids have similar properties to testosterone, and some people use them to build muscle or gain weight. However, steroids can affect testosterone levels in both males and females. In males, this testosterone excess can also decrease the amount of sperm the body makes, which may lead to infertility or loss of sex drive.

For females, steroids can cause a deeper voice, baldness , irregular periods, and infertility. People of all sexes may also experience hair growth on the face and body, greasy skin, and a range of other symptoms. Anyone who suspects their testosterone levels are high or low should speak to their doctor or undergo testing. The total testosterone level test is a blood test. The best time to have the test is in the morning when testosterone levels in the blood are usually highest.

This may make her levels of male hormones, also known as androgens, somewhat higher. Diseases such as polycystic ovarian syndrome PCOS can also raise testosterone levels. Low testosterone in women can also cause fertility problems, in addition to weak bones and loss of libido.

The best way to diagnose low testosterone is to visit your doctor for a physical exam and a blood test. Your doctor will look at your physical appearance and sexual development. Because testosterone levels are usually higher in the morning, the blood test should be performed before a. Men over 45 can be tested until p.

Risks associated with the blood test are rare but may include bleeding, pain at the injection site, or infection. While symptoms of lowering testosterone may be a normal part of aging, they could also be signs of other underlying factors. These include:. If your testosterone level is too low, your doctor may suggest TRT. Testosterone is available as:. Some medications used to treat high testosterone levels in women include:.

However, a gradual decrease is a normal part of aging. If you suspect you have low testosterone, you may wonder if your diet can help. We explore ways to boost low testosterone, especially through food…. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; chap Editorial team. Testosterone Serum testosterone. How the Test is Performed A blood sample is taken from a vein.

How to Prepare for the Test The health care provider may advise you to stop taking medicines that may affect the test. How the Test will Feel You may feel a slight prick or sting when the needle is inserted. Why the Test is Performed This test may be done if you have symptoms of abnormal male hormone androgen production.

Levels are most often checked to evaluate signs of abnormal testosterone such as: Early or late puberty in boys Infertility, erectile dysfunction , low level of sexual interest, thinning of the bones in men In females, the ovaries produce most of the testosterone. Levels are most often checked to evaluate signs of higher testosterone levels, such as: Acne, oily skin Change in voice Decreased breast size Excess hair growth dark, coarse hairs in the area of the moustache, beard, sideburns, chest, buttocks, inner thighs Increased size of the clitoris Irregular or absent menstrual periods Male-pattern baldness or hair thinning.

What Abnormal Results Mean Certain health conditions, medicines, or injury can lead to low testosterone.