What is testosterone: the whole truth about the male hormone
The sex hormone testosterone is important for the normal development and health of the entire body. He is responsible for the formation of a man”s appearance at certain stages of life. Under its influence, an embryo of male genital organs is formed in the mother”s womb, the typical features of an adult man develop during puberty, and then accumulation occurs. Masculine appearance is maintained.
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In this article, we”ve compiled the most important facts about testosterone and what it does in our bodies to help you better understand your hormonal health.
Testosterone — what is this hormone?
Testosterone is the most important male sex hormone in humans and animals. In men, the largest site of production of this hormone is the testicular circle. Up to 95% of total testosterone is produced here, and the remaining 5% is produced in the adrenal cortex. The female body also contains testosterone, but in much smaller quantities. The ovaries are engaged in production.
The main function of testosterone is the development of secondary sexual characteristics in men. It controls sexual function and is responsible for erection and sperm production.
Testosterone is a crucial muscle hormone. Under its influence, muscle mass increases in certain areas of the body and the strength of certain muscle groups increases. This hormone also supports bone metabolism and promotes bone growth in adolescents.
During puberty, changes in the voice occur under the influence of testosterone. She”s getting lower. In addition, the hormone affects the condition of the skin and hair. There is growth of the skin glands, which can lead to acne. Targeting hair follicles promotes beard and body hair growth (especially in the armpits, chest and pubic bone).
The mood, self-esteem, sexual behavior and general activity of men depend on male sex hormones.
Testosterone levels in the blood are subject to large diurnal fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring in the morning. Typically, hormone production increases significantly during puberty and begins to gradually decline after age 30.
Low sex hormone levels
Low levels of this hormone can negatively affect a person’s well-being. The main symptoms of testosterone deficiency are
As we will see, the symptoms of testosterone deficiency are varied, but they all aggravate the physical, psychological and sexual situation.
Testosterone deficiency can occur in men both due to age-related reasons (natural), and in connection with certain diseases, chronic conditions, medical treatment, stress and poor lifestyle. Also this:
As a woman ages, natural changes occur in her body—testosterone levels begin to decline. Symptoms such as:
- Decreased sexual desire
- Poor concentration
- Mood swings/depression
The main causes of low testosterone levels in women are underactive ovaries and the use of contraceptives.
Read also: Hormone responsible for arousal in women and men
Hormones are an integral part of the human body. Without them, virtually no vital function is possible. In full.
Fluctuations in testosterone levels
The normal concentration of testosterone in the blood of a healthy adult male is 12-35 nmol/L. Hormone production occurs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Therefore, if it is necessary to determine testosterone levels, the blood test should be taken in the morning, since the highest levels occur in the morning. In men with hormone deficiency, the level remains low throughout the day.
In the evening, testosterone production is minimal, but this does not mean that the evening hours are the wrong time to have sex. On the contrary, fluctuations in hormone levels can increase sexual desire.
From about age 30, testosterone levels drop by 1-2% per year. It usually has no noticeable effect on orgasm and therefore does not require treatment. If clinical symptoms appear that interfere with a normal lifestyle, it is necessary to check your hormones.
Low test results in adult men may indicate problems with the pituitary gland, since the release of male hormones is completely controlled by the brain. If the control center notices that there is not enough testosterone, it releases another hormone — lathropine. As soon as it enters the test circle, it signals the cells living there to speed up their work. The production of hormones begins immediately. The newly created testosterone not only enters the bloodstream, but also allows millions of immature sperm to mature and achieve their reproductive goals.
What is testosterone?
In boys, low testosterone levels impede puberty and there is a delay in nomination.
When testosterone levels rise, adult men have no major symptoms or changes, boys begin before puberty, and women experience noticeable changes. ) and aggressive hair growth throughout the body (especially in the bikini area, above the lips, around the nipples and between the breasts).
Prevention and treatment
If the hormonal problem does not have a negative impact on your health, treatment is not required in such cases. If low testosterone levels are interfering with a full life, you should consult your doctor.
In this case, hormonal therapy is prescribed — testosterone is introduced into the body in various dosage forms, for example, in the form of oral tablets, intramuscular injections or gels, as well as patches for external application to the skin.
Switching therapy has its advantages and disadvantages. It can help increase muscle mass, reduce body fat and normalize sex drive. Side effects include.
- Increased sebum production — skin and hair quickly become oily
- Decreased sperm production
- Reducing the size of the test circle
Men can easily increase their testosterone levels through regular exercise and diet. Grapes, tuna, kidney bullets and honey are especially beneficial as they improve blood circulation, prevent impotence, promote sexual desire and make sperm more active.
The stress hormone cortisol is an antagonist of testosterone and suppresses its production. Therefore, low cortisol levels usually mean high testosterone levels. To relieve stress, try various relaxation techniques, do yoga or swimming, and don”t forget to douche.
In addition, nicotine and alcohol can suppress testosterone formation. Therefore, giving up bad habits has a positive effect on health.
Women should exercise regularly to reduce testosterone levels. Avoiding sugar and carbohydrates also helps. The insulin contained in these foods actually causes the ovaries to produce male hormones.
