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Testosterone is a crucial hormone primarily produced in the testicles in men and in smaller amounts in the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. This hormone plays a vital role in the development of male reproductive tissues, the promotion of secondary sexual characteristics such as increased muscle and bone mass, and the growth of body hair. In both men and women, testosterone is essential for overall health and well-being, influencing energy levels, mood, and sexual function.

Laboratory testing for testosterone levels is typically performed through a blood sample, usually collected in the morning when testosterone levels are at their peak. There are different types of testosterone measurements available, including total testosterone, which measures both bound and free testosterone in the blood, and free testosterone, which measures only the unbound, biologically active form of the hormone. Healthcare providers may order these tests when patients experience symptoms such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, loss of muscle mass, or mood changes. In women, testing may be recommended for irregular menstrual periods, infertility, or signs of excess testosterone like excessive hair growth or acne.

Normal testosterone levels vary depending on age and sex. In adult men, normal total testosterone levels typically range from 300 to 1,000 nanograms per deciliter, though these reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories. In adult women, normal levels are much lower, usually between 15 to 70 nanograms per deciliter. Testosterone levels naturally decline with age in men, typically decreasing about one percent per year after age 30. Low testosterone levels in men, a condition known as hypogonadism, can result from problems with the testicles or with the pituitary gland that controls hormone production.

High testosterone levels are less common in men but can occur due to conditions affecting the adrenal glands or testicles, or from the use of testosterone supplements or anabolic steroids. In women, elevated testosterone may indicate polycystic ovary syndrome, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or tumors of the ovaries or adrenal glands. Preparation for testosterone testing usually requires fasting and scheduling the blood draw for early morning hours. Results should always be interpreted by a healthcare provider who can consider the complete clinical picture, symptoms, and other relevant test results when making treatment recommendations.