What is testosterone?
Testosterone is a type of sex hormone primarily responsible for the development of male characteristics. It is present in both sexes, but concentrations are naturally higher in men, which is why it is sometimes called the male hormone.
In men, testosterone is produced mainly in the testicles and to a lesser extent by the adrenal glands. Two areas of the brain - the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland - act a bit like a thermostat to make sure that testosterone levels are tightly controlled to stay within normal limits.
Testosterone is responsible for changes during puberty such as the deepening of the voice, body hair growth and growth rates. In adults, it plays an important role in regulating some aspects:
- Sex (libido)
- Muscle growth and development
- Bone mass
- Red blood cell production
- Mood and energy levels
- How important is testosterone for men?
- Body and facial hair growth
Regulates sperm production
Testosterone deficiency can cause everything from fatigue to decreased sex drive.
