Low testosterone: what it means and what to do

In a man, a low testosterone needs confirming: the level changes with the time of day, sleep and your health. If it stays low on two morning tests and there are symptoms, your doctor looks for the cause. Weight, diabetes or medicines are often behind it, and many causes can be corrected.

What low testosterone means

In a man, low testosterone with symptoms is called hypogonadism. The diagnosis needs two fasting morning tests, both low, and symptoms that fit.

A single low result without symptoms often means nothing: an afternoon test, a sleepless night or flu is enough to cause it.

In women, testosterone is normally low. It falls slowly with age, and the pill lowers the free part. In a woman, a low result is rarely a problem on its own.

What causes low testosterone

In men the most common come first, and they can often be corrected.

Symptoms of low testosterone

In men, the most typical symptoms are sexual. For example:

These symptoms have many other causes too. That is why testosterone is read together with an examination.

Low testosterone and age

Testosterone falls a little over the years, but in a healthy man the fall is slow. Much of the drop seen with age comes from weight, diabetes and other illnesses.

Testosterone therapy is decided with your doctor, and only with a real diagnosis. It is not for men who want children soon: testosterone taken from outside reduces sperm production.

Which tests to read alongside it

These tests help show where it comes from.

How to raise your testosterone

It depends on the cause. Where to start:

Do not use testosterone or steroids without a prescription: they can switch off your own production and reduce fertility.

Low testosterone: when to worry

Talk to your doctor if:

Frequently asked questions

When is testosterone low? By Italian guidelines, a total of 12 nmol/L or less, about 3.5 ng/mL, on two morning tests, with symptoms. Your report may use different limits.

What are the symptoms of low testosterone? In men, mostly lower sex drive, erection problems and fewer morning erections. Then tiredness, low mood and less strength. They have other causes too, which is why a doctor is needed.

How can I raise testosterone naturally? Lose weight if you carry extra, move, sleep well and drink less alcohol. If lifestyle is the cause, that is often enough to bring it back up.

Is low testosterone a problem in women? Rarely. In women it is normally low, and it falls with age and with the pill. If you have lower sex drive or other symptoms, talk to your doctor or gynaecologist.

Can low testosterone be treated? Often yes, by treating the cause: weight, diabetes, sleep, medicines. If it stays low and there is a diagnosis, your doctor can consider testosterone therapy.

Does low testosterone cause infertility? It can reduce fertility, and testosterone therapy reduces it too. If you want a child, tell your doctor before any treatment.

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