Testosterone is a hormone found in both males and females, although it is commonly called the male hormone. According to the National Library of Medicine, the normal range of testosterone in the males is 300 to 1,000 nanograms of testosterone per deciliter of blood. For females, the range is 20 to 80 nanograms of testosterone per deciliter of blood. Hormones are chemicals that help regulate body functions and are produced by the body's endocrine system.
Where Testosterone is Produced
In women, the majority of testosterone that circulates through the blood is produced in the ovaries. In men, the majority of testosterone is produced in the testicles. The effects of testosterone deficiencies are important in understanding when a test of testosterone levels should be performed.
Why Levels are Checked
Tests for testosterone levels can be performed for different reasons, depending on the age and gender of the patient. For young boys, abnormal levels of testosterone can result in puberty arriving early or late. For men and women, an abnormal level can be an indication of infertility or a decreased sex drive. In girls and women, abnormal levels can result in a condition called hirsutism, which is abnormal growth of hair, or a condition called virilization, the development of male physical characteristics. In males, abnormal levels can be an indication of testicular tumors. Testosterone levels are also checked as part of the diagnosis of pituitary or hypothalamus disorders.
Hormone Effects
Testosterone is one of the hormones that the endocrine system produces. The effects of hormones are to stimulate and regulate organs and tissues in the body. Hormones, including testosterone, are produced in specialized groups of cells that are called glands.
Topical Gel
Testosterone is prescribed as a topical gel for males who are not producing sufficient levels of testosterone naturally. The gel can also be prescribed for other medical conditions. When testosterone gel is applied, care should be taken that other people, especially women and children, do not touch the skin where the gel was applied because some testosterone can be transferred.
Male Menopause
Problems associated with male menopause, such as erectile dysfunction, can be blamed on low testosterone levels, although there is little evidence to support this. While testosterone production can be reduced as men age, the normal range of testosterone levels in the bloodstream is large enough that the lower levels usually fall within the normal range. Erectile difficulties, in many cases, are caused by circulatory problems, not low testosterone levels.
