Quick answer: Total testosterone measures all the testosterone in your blood, both bound and free. In men, low testosterone can cause low libido, fatigue, muscle loss and low mood. In women, high testosterone is often linked with PCOS, while low levels may affect libido and energy. Sleep, strength training, a healthy weight and stress care all support healthy levels.
What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is the main androgen. Men make it mostly in the testes; women make smaller amounts in the ovaries and adrenal glands. This marker is part of the Healthspan Assessment panel available to my 1-on-1 patients.
Why Testosterone matters
- Muscle and bone strength
- Libido and sexual function
- Energy and mood
- Red blood cell production
Understanding your result
Reference ranges vary by lab, age and sex. Your provider interprets your result against the lab’s range and your overall picture, rather than chasing a single number. Functional labs are optional. They can be helpful in more complex cases, and in my practice they are available only to patients working 1-on-1 with me.
What low Testosterone can mean
- Aging, obesity and insulin resistance
- Poor sleep or sleep apnea
- Chronic stress and over-training
- Opioids, steroids and some other medications
- Pituitary or testicular conditions
What high Testosterone can mean
- PCOS in women
- Testosterone or anabolic steroid use
- Adrenal conditions
What affects Testosterone
- Time of day (highest in the morning)
- Sleep
- Body fat and insulin
- Alcohol and medications
Ways to support healthy levels
- Strength training (see strength training for longevity)
- Seven to nine hours of sleep; get evaluated for sleep apnea
- Maintain a healthy weight and steady blood sugar
- Adequate zinc, vitamin D and protein
- Discuss testosterone therapy risks and benefits with your doctor
Testosterone and healthy aging
Testosterone supports muscle, bone and metabolic health. Its tendency to decline with age is linked with muscle loss and changes in nutrient sensing and body composition.
Related tests and articles: free testosterone, SHBG.
When to see a naturopathic doctor
- Low libido, fatigue or muscle loss
- Signs of PCOS
- You are considering testosterone therapy
- Abnormal results you want explained
See a medical provider promptly for breast enlargement in men, a testicular lump, or rapid signs of virilization in women.
Want help making sense of your labs?
A free 15-minute consultation with Dr. Kneessi. No cost, no obligation. In-office in Odenton, MD or by telehealth.
Frequently asked questions
When should testosterone be tested?
In the morning, ideally twice on different days, for men.
What causes low testosterone?
Aging, obesity, poor sleep, stress, medications and pituitary or testicular conditions.
Can I raise testosterone naturally?
Sleep, strength training, weight loss and stress care can help.
Do women need testosterone?
Yes, in small amounts for libido, energy and bone.
Sources
- Finkelstein JS, et al. Gonadal steroids and body composition, strength, and sexual function in men. N Engl J Med 2013. PMID: 24024838. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4142768/
- Bhasin S, et al. Testosterone therapy in men with hypogonadism: an Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2018. PMID: 29562364. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29562364/
- Teede HJ, et al. Recommendations from the 2023 international evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023. PMID: 37580314. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10505534/
- MedlinePlus: Testosterone Levels Test
- MedlinePlus: Male Infertility
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not replace an individual evaluation. Talk with your healthcare provider before starting supplements or changing medications, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or managing a health condition.
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