Testosterone is a hormone found in humans and other animals. It is produced by the testicles in men and the ovaries in women, although in much smaller amounts. Testosterone is the main androgen, meaning it stimulates the development of male characteristics. It plays a vital role in sperm production, affects bone and muscle mass, the way men store fat in the body, and even red blood cell production. Testosterone may also help maintain normal mood.

Low levels of testosterone, also called low T levels, can produce a variety of symptoms in men, including decreased sex drive, less energy, weight gain, feelings of depression, moodiness, low self-esteem, less body hair, and thinner bones. Testosterone production naturally tapers off as a man ages, but other factors can cause hormone levels to drop. Low testosterone levels could be a sign of pituitary gland problems, and a low T test result in an adult man could mean the pituitary gland isn’t working properly.

Testosterone therapy is a treatment option for men with low testosterone levels. It can help improve bone density, muscle strength and mass, and sex drive. However, testosterone therapy also has potential risks, such as an increased risk of heart disease, sleep apnea, and prostate cancer.

In summary, testosterone is a hormone that plays a vital role in the development of male growth and masculine characteristics. It is produced by the testicles in men and the ovaries in women, and low levels of testosterone can produce a variety of symptoms in men. Testosterone therapy is a treatment option for men with low testosterone levels, but it also has potential risks.