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Why should you get a testosterone test?

Category: Hormones and Metabolism

When people think of important blood tests that can help them learn about their health, they probably think of cholesterol and heart disease testing, but there are many more. For example, lab tests can help measure testosterone levels as well, which is a test that men and even some women may want to consider. Testosterone tests can indicate a number of health issues, making education key to ensuring overall well-being.

Taking a testosterone test can identify abnormal levels of the hormone in the blood. While some people think of testosterone as primarily a male hormone, it is also found in small amounts in women and plays a large role in sexual functioning for both genders.

What does the test show?
There are many things that a testosterone test can shine light on. For example, if a couple finds that they are having trouble conceiving, the man can take a test to determine if his testosterone levels are low, which could mean that he has a low sperm count. Furthermore, men who experience erectile dysfunction may find that insufficient levels of this hormone are to blame for their sexual function problems.

This test isn't just for adults, either. A blood test can help determine if a high level of testosterone is causing a boy younger than age 10 to have early signs of puberty.

Furthermore, women may benefit from getting this test as well. The National Institutes of Health states that women who have been experiencing a decrease in breast size, excess hair growth, or symptoms similar to male-pattern baldness should see if their testosterone levels are too high, because that can cause all of these issues.

Abnormal testosterone levels can be caused by many things. For example, cancer in the ovaries or testes may change testosterone levels, as can chronic illness or delayed puberty. If people are found to have low testosterone levels, they should consult with their physician to learn what they should do next. There are ways for people to change their testosterone levels, such as getting injections of testosterone, which may improve people's sex lives and even lessen the effects of depression, according to WebMD. This is why people who are concerned that their levels are abnormal should get tested, since they do have options.