Normal Testosterone Levels

The normal level of testosterone in the body supports sexual development, libido, healthy muscle and bone, and a good mood. So, what are the normal testosterone levels? And what do abnormal levels indicate?

What are the Normal Testosterone Levels?

Normal testosterone levels vary by gender, age, and overall health. Generally, levels are significantly higher in males compared to females. Here is a detailed explanation:

• Testosterone Levels in Men

Testosterone plays many important roles in the male body, including the development of male sexual organs, sperm production, libido, voice deepening, and muscle and bone growth. 

Generally, normal testosterone levels in men range from 300 to 1,000 ng/dL, though these ranges may slightly vary depending on the laboratory standards used. 

You can have a total testosterone or free testosterone test offered by Blazma, ensuring it is done early in the morning after fasting, as testosterone levels are highest in the early morning.

• Testosterone Levels in Women

Although testosterone is known as a male sex hormone, females need certain levels of it too. It helps with ovarian function, bone strength, libido, fertility, heart health, and other hormone levels. Normal testosterone levels in females range from 15 to 70 ng/dL.

• Testosterone Levels in Children and Adolescents

Testosterone levels vary with age, being low in children and changing rapidly during puberty. Here are the normal levels for children and adolescents:

Abnormal Testosterone Levels

Abnormal testosterone levels may be associated with certain health conditions or the use of specific medications. Here are the underlying causes of elevated or decreased testosterone levels:

• Low Testosterone Levels Causes

Naturally, testosterone levels in men decrease by about 1% annually after the age of 30. In women, levels decrease after menopause, which typically begins between ages 45 and 55. However, some health conditions can cause a significant decrease in total testosterone levels, such as:

1. Chronic illness.
2. Pituitary gland disorders.
3. Decreased thyroid function.
4. Undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
5. Use of opioid painkillers.
6. Testicular diseases, including injury, infection, or cancer.
7. Sleep problems, such as sleep apnea, chronic stress from over-exercising, and obesity.

In women, adrenal gland insufficiency, surgical removal of the ovaries, and the use of certain medications, such as oral estrogen therapy, are major causes of decreased testosterone levels.

Low testosterone levels typically cause hair loss, decreased libido, mood disturbances, memory and concentration problems, and reduced muscle strength in men. In women, it can cause irregular menstrual cycles, decreased libido, vaginal dryness, osteoporosis, and fertility issues.

• High Testosterone Levels Causes

High testosterone levels in men and women can cause infertility, obesity, and metabolic disorders in some cases. Here are the main causes of elevated testosterone levels:

1. Ovarian tumors.
2. Testicular cancer.
3. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
4. Androgen resistance.
5. Use of medications or supplements that increase testosterone levels, such as excessive use of steroids.