Why Does Testosterone in Men Decrease?

Testosterone is one of the most important hormones produced by the male body. It helps build muscle and bone, produce pubic and body hair, and maintain a sex drive. Sperm production is also affected by testosterone. The levels of testosterone in a man's body can decrease because of age, sickness, or other unknown causes.

Fact

• Hypogonadism is the proper medical term for low testosterone. In men, it occurs when the sex glands fail to produce a normal level of testosterone. It is sometimes referred to as male menopause or andropause.

Causes

• According to the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, low testosterone is caused by a variety of reasons. Trauma to the body, such as chemotherapy or exposure to radiation can decrease testosterone. Age, hormonal disorders, medications, and genetic conditions can also decrease testosterone.

The Age Factor

• Men naturally experience a drop in testosterone as they age. In the book The Male Biological Clock, it states that male testosterone levels drop by one percent per year starting at age 30. This is a hormonal change similar to when women experience menopause.

Young Men

• It's possible for young men to have low testosterone. If that's the case, it usually stems from a problem with genetics, the testicles, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus.

Signs

• According to MensHealthNetwork.org, signs of low testosterone in men include low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, depression, osteoporosis, breast enlargement, and fatigue.

Treatment

• According to MenHealthNetwork.org, there are FDA-approved testosterone replacement therapies. Available methods of treatment include patches, injections, and rub-on gels.