Testosterone Check Test
This test checks your levels of the hormone Testosterone. Testosterone is the main sex hormone in males. The high levels of Testosterone that men have compared to women are responsible for the development of virtually all the physical differences between the sexes. In adult males it controls sex drive, maintains muscle mass and helps make sperm.
What is included in the Testosterone Check Test?
Hormones (1 Biomarkers)
There are many types of hormones that support different bodily functions and processes including growth, metabolism, appetite and fertility. Hormone imbalances or deficiencies may be to blame for a wide range of symptoms and conditions.
Testosterone
Testosterone is a steroid hormone produced by the male testes and the adrenal glands in both men and women. This hormone production is stimulated and controlled by the luteinizing hormone. Testosterone is seen in large amounts in boys during puberty, causing growth of body hair and muscle development. It also regulates the male sex drive and maintain muscle mass. It is found in small amount in females from the ovary. Testosterone test is used to diagnosed various conditions such as erectile dysfunction and infertility in men.
What can cause low testosterone?
Conditions which directly affect the testes, including direct injury, infection or radiation can cause testosterone levels to drop significantly.
- Genetic conditions such as Klinefelter syndrome where a male has an extra X chromosome can also affect levels.
- Tumours, auto-immune conditions and some medications can also affect glands that produce this hormone.
What are some symptoms of low testosterone?
- Low libido
- Increased breast size
- Decreased body hair
- Poor cognitive function
- Depression
- Loss of muscle mass
Why is testosterone so important?
Testosterone is a major sex hormone which plays some key roles in the body including:
- Muscular growth and strength
- Sex Drive (libido)
- Sperm production
- Bone density and growth
- Pubertal development
- It also plays a vital role in females, produced in the ovaries and adrenal gland, keeping the balance with oestrogen