Testosterone is a vital hormone for the development and maintenance of male attributes. Females also have testosterone but in smaller amounts. A male begins testosterone production as early as seven weeks after conception. Testosterone levels rise during puberty and peak during the late teen years. Once a male reaches the age of thirty, it is normal for his testosterone levels to decrease. Testosterone levels do not only affect the sexuality and reproductive system of men, but it also plays a role in muscle mass and bone density.
Major roles
Testosterone is a crucial sex hormone in males and affects the development of the penis and testes. It is also responsible for the deepening of the voice during puberty. The muscle size and strength, libido, sperm production, and bone growth all rely on testosterone. Teens with too little testosterone may not experience regular masculinization. Their genitals may not enlarge, and their voice may not deepen. Their facial and body hair may be scant. Testosterone is also present in women. Produced in the ovaries and adrenal gland, it is one of several androgens in females. They have effects on ovarian function, bone strength, and sexual behavior, such as libido.
Too much testosterone
Although people often associate testosterone excess with road rage, brawls, and sexual promiscuity, having too much testosterone is not a common problem in men. What may seem like a symptom of high testosterone level may be unrelated to this hormone. Although not common, problems associated with too high testosterone levels in men exist. These include low sperm counts, shrinking of the testicles, impotence, acne, liver disease, and weight gain. Some also experience heart muscle damage and an increased risk of a heart attack. For women, in addition to those, they may experience a decrease in breast size and deepening of the voice.
Too little testosterone
Testosterone deficiency causes increased breast size, hot flashes, loss of muscle mass, low libido, impotence, small testicles, reduced sperm count, and infertility. Some men also experience irritability, poor concentration, and depression. To cope up with low levels of testosterone, many keep body health with natural testosterone boosters.