Symptoms of Low Testosterone: When to Get Tested
Testosterone is a key hormone responsible for regulating muscle mass, bone density, mood, energy levels, and sexual function in both men and women. When testosterone levels drop too low, it can lead to a range of physical, emotional, and cognitive symptoms.
We'll explores common signs of low testosterone (Low T), when to get tested, and what to do if your levels are below normal.
What is Low Testosterone?
Low testosterone (also called hypogonadism) occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough testosterone. While testosterone levels naturally decline with age, some men and women experience levels below the healthy range, leading to noticeable symptoms.
What is Considered "Low T"?
According to the American Urological Association (AUA), low testosterone is defined as total testosterone levels below 300 ng/dL in men [¹].
- In women, testosterone deficiency is less defined but typically involves levels below 15 ng/dL with noticeable symptoms [²].
Common Symptoms of Low Testosterone
Low T can affect nearly every part of the body, from muscles and bones to mood and memory.
Physical Symptoms of Low T
🚨 Fatigue & Low Energy – Feeling constantly tired despite getting enough sleep.
🚨 Loss of Muscle Mass – Decreased strength and difficulty gaining muscle.
🚨 Increased Body Fat – Especially around the abdomen (linked to higher estrogen levels).
🚨 Erectile Dysfunction (ED) – Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection.
🚨 Reduced Libido – Decreased interest in sex and lower sexual performance.
🚨 Hair Loss – Thinning hair on the scalp or body.
🚨 Weaker Bones – Increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
Mental & Emotional Symptoms of Low T
😞 Depression & Mood Swings – Feeling sad, irritable, or unmotivated.
😕 Brain Fog & Poor Memory – Difficulty focusing, remembering things, or staying sharp.
🛌 Poor Sleep Quality – Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.
Symptoms of Low Testosterone in Women
Women with low testosterone may experience:
🚺 Low Sex Drive – Reduced interest in intimacy.
🚺 Fatigue & Weakness – Feeling exhausted with no clear cause.
🚺 Mood Changes – Depression, anxiety, or irritability.
If you experience several of these symptoms, it may be time to get your testosterone levels checked.
Who Should Get a Testosterone Test?
A testosterone blood test is recommended if you:
✅ Have multiple symptoms of low T (especially fatigue, low libido, and muscle loss).
✅ Have a chronic illness such as diabetes, obesity, or metabolic syndrome.
✅ Are over 30 and experiencing sudden changes in energy, mood, or sexual function.
If you are concerned about your testosterone levels, talk to a doctor about getting a total testosterone blood test, along with free testosterone and SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin) for a more complete picture.
What Causes Low Testosterone?
Several factors can contribute to declining testosterone levels:
1. Aging
Testosterone levels naturally drop by about 1% per year after age 30 [³].
2. Obesity & Poor Diet
Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, converts testosterone into estrogen, leading to hormonal imbalances.
3. Chronic Stress & High Cortisol
High cortisol (stress hormone) levels can suppress testosterone production [⁴].
4. Sleep Deprivation
Studies show that poor sleep quality significantly lowers testosterone [⁵].
5. Medical Conditions
- Type 2 Diabetes – Insulin resistance is linked to lower testosterone.
- Thyroid Disorders – Thyroid hormones help regulate testosterone production.
- Pituitary or Testicular Disorders – Issues with the pituitary gland or testicles can affect hormone production.
How to Get Tested for Low Testosterone
The best way to check for low T is a blood test.
Recommended Tests for Low T
✔️ Total Testosterone Test – Measures overall testosterone levels.
✔️ Free Testosterone Test – Measures the active, unbound testosterone.
✔️ Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) – Helps determine available testosterone.
✔️ Luteinizing Hormone (LH) – Helps diagnose pituitary-related testosterone issues.
🔹 Testosterone levels fluctuate, so testing should be done in the morning (7-10 AM) for the most accurate results.
📌 Read: How to Prepare for a Testosterone Blood Test
Can You Increase Testosterone Naturally?
Yes! If your levels are borderline low, lifestyle changes can help boost testosterone production:
🔥 Strength Training & HIIT Workouts – Increases testosterone levels naturally.
🥑 Healthy Diet – Focus on healthy fats, protein, and micronutrients like zinc & vitamin D.
😴 Get 7-9 Hours of Sleep – Deep sleep is crucial for testosterone production.
🚫 Manage Stress – Chronic stress raises cortisol, which lowers testosterone.
If natural methods don’t work, a doctor may recommend testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
Final Thoughts: Take Action If You Have Symptoms
If you are experiencing multiple symptoms of low T, don’t ignore them. Getting tested is the first step to diagnosing and treating the issue.
💡 Next Steps:
✔️ Get a testosterone blood test if you have symptoms.
✔️ Make lifestyle changes to improve hormone levels.
✔️ Consult a doctor if your testosterone is consistently low.
Footnotes & Citations
- American Urological Association. “Guidelines for Testosterone Deficiency.” AUA Guidelines, 2018. Available here
- Mayo Clinic. “Low Testosterone in Men and Women.” Mayo Clinic, 2022. Available here
- The Endocrine Society. “Testosterone Deficiency and Aging.” The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2019. Available here
- Tsigos, C., et al. “The Role of Cortisol in Metabolic Disorders.” Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 2016. Available here
- Leproult, R., et al. “Impact of Sleep on Testosterone Levels.” JAMA, 2011. Available here
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