What is normal testosterone level?

Testosterone is one of the main sex hormones in both men and women and is responsible for regulating a variety of physiological functions such as libido, bone health, muscle growth, and mood. Testosterone levels can vary with age, gender, health, and other factors. Understanding normal testosterone level is important for diagnosing and treating related health problems.

Normal testosterone level in men

Testosterone levels in men are usually significantly higher than in women and are a key factor in determining male sexual characteristics such as facial hair, deep voice, muscular development, etc. Normal testosterone levels can vary according to different laboratory standards, but generally range from 300 to 1,000 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL).

To be specific:

Young men (20 to 30 years old) : usually have high testosterone levels, close to 1,000 ng/dL, which gradually decline with age.

Middle-aged men (40 to 50 years old) : Testosterone levels are usually between 400 and 600 ng/dL. Men at this stage may begin to experience problems associated with decreased testosterone levels, such as muscle loss, decreased libido, and mood changes.

Older men (over 60 years old) : Testosterone levels are usually below 500 ng/dL, and may even drop to 300 to 400 ng/dL. With aging, the body’s ability to secrete testosterone gradually weakens, and common symptoms include further decline in libido, osteoporosis, fatigue, etc.

It is worth noting that there is a wide range of normal testosterone levels, and different individuals differ in their demand for and response to testosterone levels. Some men can maintain normal physical function even at low levels of 300 ng/dL, while others may still feel symptoms at higher levels.

Normal testosterone level in women

Although testosterone levels in women are much lower than in men, it still plays an important role in sexual health, energy levels, and mood regulation. Testosterone levels in normal women are usually between 15 and 70 ng/dL.

Young women (ages 20 to 30) : Testosterone levels are at the highest point of normal, near 70 ng/dL, which helps maintain a healthy sex drive, bone strength and emotional stability.

Middle-aged women (40 to 50 years old) : With age and hormonal changes (especially the onset of menopause), testosterone levels may drop to 20 to 40 ng/dL, with symptoms such as decreased libido and decreased energy.

Older women (60 + years) : Entering old age, a woman’s testosterone levels may drop to 15 to 20 ng/dL, which may lead to decreased sexual function, decreased bone density, and muscle loss.

Low testosterone (testosterone deficiency)

When a man or woman’s testosterone levels fall below the normal range, they may diagnose with low testosterone or testosterone deficiency. For men, a diagnosis of low testosterone ketosis may consider if the testosterone level is below 300 ng/dL and accompany by related symptoms (such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, low mood, etc.).

In women, low testosterone levels often manifest by decreased libido, mood swings, tiredness, and decreased muscle strength, especially after menopause or removal of the ovaries, when testosterone levels can drop significantly.

High testosterone levels

High testosterone levels can be problematic in both men and women. In men, exogenous testosterone (such as steroid abuse) or certain medical conditions (such as testicular or adrenal gland tumors) can lead to excessive testosterone, manifested by excessive muscle growth, aggressive behavior, acne, or other health problems.

In women, high testosterone is often associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), with symptoms including irregular menstruation, hairy face or body, acne, and infertility. Women with high testosterone levels may also experience masculine features such as a rougher voice, hair loss and altered body fat distribution.

Testosterone level testing

Testosterone levels are usually detected through a simple blood test. Testing between 8 and 10 am is recommended because testosterone levels fluctuate widely throughout the day and are usually highest in the morning. Based on your health, symptoms, and test results, your doctor will determine if your testosterone levels are in the normal range and recommend treatment as needed.

Conclusion

There are significant differences in normal testosterone levels between men and women and they naturally decline with age. For men, testosterone levels typically range from 300 to 1,000 ng/dL, while for women they range from 15 to 70 ng/dL. Both low and high testosterone can cause a variety of health problems, and regular monitoring of testosterone levels can help identify problems early and intervene.