Testosterone: The Primary Male Reproductive Tissues

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. In men, testosterone is essential in the development of male reproductive tissues such as the testis and prostate, as well as promoting secondary sexual characteristics including increased muscle, bone mass and the growth of body hair. Low levels of testosterone can produce several different signs and symptoms. For instance, testosterone is most commonly associated with an individual’s sex drive. Individuals with low testosterone, however, will typically experience a decreased sex drive. In addition, they may also experience a lack of energy, weight gain, feelings of depression, moodiness, low self-esteem, less body hair and thinner bones. As men age, testosterone production tends to taper off,
so to speak. As a result, other factors can also cause hormone levels to decrease. In order to determine testosterone levels, a simple blood test must be performed. For most men, a normal range of testosterone is between 250 and 1100 ng/dL. With that being said, unusually low testosterone levels could indicate pituitary gland problems. Reduced testosterone production, also known as hypogonadism, doesn’t always require treatment. Low testosterone results should prompt you to check your prostate health and red blood cell production. If low testosterone is interfering with your overall health and quality of life, you may be considered a candidate for testosterone replacement therapy. Testosterone replacement therapy includes artificial testosterone which can be administered orally, through injections or with gels or patches on the skin. Despite the fact that testosterone replacement therapy may produce desired results, it can also present several side effects.