Male Testosterone Levels by Age: Whats Normal, Whats Not, and How to Check Yours

Testosterone Levels by Age Chart: What is Normal?

Factors such as diet, lifestyle, stress levels, and sleep habits all influence testosterone levels. Chronic illness can also negatively impact During puberty, the normal range of a male’s testosterone levels could be anywhere between 300 and 1,200 ng/dL. In men, testosterone is responsible for muscle growth and the development of male sex characteristics, including body and facial hair, testes, and the penis.

Roughly 40% of males aged 45 or older and 50% of males aged 80 or older live with hypoandrogenism, or low testosterone. Symptoms of hypoandrogenism include erectile dysfunction and low libido. In males, testosterone concentration starts at about 1.9 ng/dL at age six. In children assigned female at birth, testosterone concentration starts at about 2.4 nanograms (ng) per deciliter (dL) of blood at age six and increases to about 29.5 ng/dL by age 20. Please note that the information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

However, laboratories may report levels down to 264 ng/dL as within the normal range. Some research also suggests that high levels of prenatal testosterone levels may be linked to autism in children. However, more research is needed to see whether prenatal testosterone affects autism later in life.

Elevated PSA levels may indicate a condition affecting the prostate, and understanding these levels is essential for early detection. An elevated PSA level is typically considered to be above 4.0 ng/ml, but other factors need to be considered. For men at average risk, a Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) is usually performed after the age of 50 to check for abnormalities in the prostate through the rectal wall. Regular screening is essential for early detection of potential issues. For individuals at high risk, such as those with a family history of prostate cancer or certain racial groups, discussions about screening should begin at age 45. Additionally, lifestyle choices such as smoking can affect PSA levels and overall prostate health.

Radiation therapy might be used externally or internally, depending on the cancer’s characteristics. Both surgery and radiation therapy are crucial for treating aggressive prostate cancer effectively. Monitoring under Active Surveillance typically involves regular PSA testing, digital rectal exams, and scheduled biopsies. Active Surveillance avoids treatment side effects, though it carries the risk of cancer progression during observation.

If test results reveal that you do not have a normal level of testosterone, you may not necessarily have a medical condition that requires treatment. Factors that commonly affect test results include the use of certain medications, substance use disorders, and exposure to heavy metals and other toxins. Inform your healthcare provider of all medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take insulin, medicines that decrease blood clotting (lc/ms blood test thinners), or corticosteroids.

The machine-readable files are formatted to allow researchers, regulators and application developers to more easily access and analyze data. Increased muscle mass, mood changes, and fertility problems are common. It may help you find a highly rated doctor specializing in hormone replacement therapy in your area. Depression, fatigue, and loss of motivation are also commonly caused by low testosterone. Bringing back to normal, a natural substance your body already makes, may be wiser.

If your doctor refuses treatment, a gentle reminder of what “optimal health” entails may be in order. Research shows that men who exercise regularly have higher T than those who don’t (10). In particular, resistance training, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and walking have been shown to positively affect testosterone levels. The average male who reaches 70 years old will have testosterone production that’s 30 percent below his peak (5). If you’re experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, it’s crucial to seek professional guidance to address these issues safely and effectively.

This peak corresponds with the period of rapid growth and physical development in young men. During this phase, testosterone plays a crucial role in increasing muscle mass, strengthening bones, and enhancing reproductive functions. Men have high testosterone levels while women have high progesterone and estrogen levels. Even though androgen is primarily a male hormone, women also have it albeit in small amounts. The adrenal glands and ovaries secrete testosterone in women, while the testes produce it in men. The pituitary gland controls testosterone production by releasing LH or luteinizing hormone.