Basic Male Hormones

The main hormone in males is testosterone. Produced primarily by the testes (with small amounts from the adrenal glands), testosterone drives development of male reproductive tissues and sperm production, and promotes secondary sexual characteristics such as increased muscle mass, deeper voice, facial and body hair. It also influences bone density, libido, mood, and fat distribution; abnormal levels can affect fertility and overall health.

The three primary male hormones (androgens) are testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and androstenedione. Testosterone, produced mainly by the testes, drives male sexual development, muscle mass, libido and sperm production. DHT, converted from testosterone, is more potent and influences prostate growth and hair follicles. Androstenedione is an adrenal and testicular precursor that can be converted into testosterone or estrogens.

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. Produced mainly by the testes and in smaller amounts by the adrenal glands, it promotes development of male reproductive organs and spermatogenesis, and drives secondary sexual characteristics like facial and body hair, deeper voice, greater muscle mass and bone density, and libido. Testosterone also influences mood and energy; females have lower circulating levels.

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, crucial for libido, muscle mass, bone density, fat distribution and mood. For men with medically diagnosed low testosterone, testosterone replacement therapy can improve symptoms, but it’s not universally recommended and carries risks (cardiovascular, prostate, blood thickness). Other supplements or hormones (DHEA, growth hormone) are generally not recommended without clear deficiency. Treatment should be individualized and started only after evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Low testosterone in men can cause decreased libido and erectile dysfunction, persistent fatigue, reduced muscle mass and strength, increased body fat, and loss of facial or body hair. Mood changes (depression, irritability), poorer concentration and memory, low sperm count or fertility problems, decreased bone density, and smaller testicles are also common signs. If suspected, see a healthcare professional for testing.

Male hormones (mainly testosterone) have five key functions: 1) drive development and maintenance of male reproductive organs and spermatogenesis, supporting fertility; 2) promote secondary sexual traits (facial/body hair, voice deepening); 3) regulate libido and erectile function; 4) increase muscle mass, strength and bone density; 5) affect mood, energy, cognition, fat distribution and stimulate red blood cell production.