Testosterone is an important hormone naturally produced in the human body. For both men and women, it can influence overall bodily health. Whether it is from a deficiency of hormones or an excess of hormones, there are clear physical and non-physical influences upon a person.
What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is an androgen hormone. It is understood to produce male characteristics in the body, and women usually have less in their bodies. In both sexes, testosterone has a lot of influences upon its abundance or lack thereof. Association with aggression and sexual drive are its generally known realms. It also stimulates red blood cell production, bone density, and muscle strength, to name a few other areas.
Low Levels
Low testosterone can cause many symptoms. Some examples of symptoms for men are as follows:
- Decreased sexual drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Weight gain
- Gynecomastia (breast development)
- Hair loss
- Infertility
- Low muscle mass
- Muscle loss
For women, there are symptoms such as decreased sexual drive, infertility, and irregular or complete absence of periods commonly known as amenorrhea.
Possible causes of lower testosterone levels for women are long-term contraceptive use, old age, and ovarian failure or removal. Both sexes could experience mood changes, lack of motivation, depression, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, or even insomnia.
A Note About Age
Both sexes usually have a testosterone peak somewhere in their 20s. Women will have half of the levels in their body at menopause as they do at their peak. Men will gradually decrease for the rest of their lives and are estimated to decrease by one percent annually after age 30 to 40.
Treatments
There are several treatment options for low testosterone or hypogonadism. Both sexes can opt for hormone replacement therapy. This type of therapy uses bio-equivalent or man-made hormones to balance levels in the body.
To best identify those most suited for hormone treatments, it is best to consult the professionals. Talk to the experts of Premiere Center for Health and Wellness in Cincinnati, OH to find out more information. We proudly provide hormone health services for women and men in the area. Contact us today and book your consultation!