Testosterone

What is testosterone?

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone that is important for both physical and mental health. This vital hormone plays key roles in body and brain development throughout life.

Some key functions of testosterone include:

• Muscle mass and strength: Testosterone increases muscle protein synthesis, helping men build more muscle mass and strength, especially during puberty and young adulthood. Higher testosterone levels are linked to greater athletic performance.


• Bone density: Testosterone supports bone mineral density and strength in men. Low testosterone is associated with risks of osteoporosis.


• Fat distribution: Testosterone helps determine where men store fat, favoring the abdomen and chest vs hips and thighs as seen in women. This gives men their characteristic body shape.


• Sex drive: Testosterone levels peak during adolescence and early adulthood, driving libido and erections during a man’s reproductive years. Testosterone fuels sex drive in men throughout adulthood.


• Mood and cognition: Optimal testosterone may improve mood, motivation, confidence, and cognitive abilities like spatial skills and math performance. Low testosterone can negatively impact men’s mental health.

Diagnosing low testosterone is important, as 5-20% of men over age 60 may have deficient levels. Symptoms include low energy, reduced muscle mass, increased body fat, loss of libido, and erectile dysfunction. Blood tests by knowledgeable physicians like those at Vitality Hormone Center can accurately measure testosterone and help create tailored treatment plans for any hormonal imbalances or deficiencies.

Testosterone replacement therapy via gels, injections, pellets or patches may effectively and safely treat low levels in some men. However, testosterone therapy has some risks and isn’t right for everyone. Thorough lab testing and oversight from an experienced hormone doctor is essential.

The board-certified hormone specialists at Vitality Hormone Center offer cutting-edge testosterone and hormonal testing, therapy, and ongoing monitoring to help men optimize energy, strength, endurance and quality of life. Contact Vitality Hormone Center today for a consultation!