
Similar to the monthly hormonal cycles that many cisgender women experience, cis men also experience a hormonal cycle with testosterone, a male sex hormone. Instead of menstrual cycles, you may experience low levels of testosterone Daily fluctuations As well as changes with age.
Testosterone is an important reproductive hormone that has many roles in the bodies of cisgender men, including helping develop male sexual characteristics and producing sperm.
Your testosterone levels are not constant throughout the day. Testosterone levels are usually highest in the morning and then decline throughout the day. That’s why you may feel more energetic or have a higher sex drive when you wake up.
Although they may change over the course of 24 hours, testosterone levels maintain their natural fluctuations throughout the year, without menstrual or seasonal changes or cycles.
Like women who go through perimenopause and menopause, men also experience hormonal changes as they age. Your testosterone levels generally begin to decline in your 30s. This decrease is sometimes referred to as Male menopause.
Testosterone levels gradually decline, at a rate of about 1% per year over the next decade. This is different from menopause, which usually results in a faster change in fertility.
Decreased testosterone with age is normal. A 60-year-old is likely to have lower testosterone levels than a 20-year-old.
Other factors that affect testosterone over time
In addition to age, certain lifestyle factors and pre-existing health conditions may also affect your testosterone. For example, A High stress lifestyle It can increase levels of cortisol, a stress-related hormone, and reduce testosterone.
Health conditions such as obesity and Hypothyroidism (low thyroid function) may also cause your testosterone levels to decrease.
Testosterone is an important hormone that helps with healthy muscle building, fertility, energy conservation and other functions. Low testosterone, which affects about 40% of men over the age of 45, can cause a variety of symptoms and put you at greater risk for certain health conditions.
Some symptoms of low testosterone may include:
While it is normal for testosterone to decline with age, you can talk with your health care provider about any low testosterone symptoms that bother you. Your healthcare provider may be able to help treat low testosterone.
If your testosterone levels are normal for your age, your doctor can also help explore other causes of your symptoms, such as depression, low thyroid function, or other health concerns.
If you’re concerned about your hormone levels, there are some things you can do to help control them naturally. Some tips that may help include:
- Get enough high-quality sleep every day
- Manage your stress levels
- Eat a balanced diet that supports your health goals
- Get enough regular exercise
You may also consider talking to your health care provider about testosterone replacement therapy to balance your hormone levels if you have low testosterone.
It is important to take testosterone supplements only under the supervision of a doctor so that you take the correct dose. Taking too much testosterone may increase the risk of health problems such as prostate enlargement, blood clots, cardiovascular disease, and high cholesterol.
Testosterone follows a circadian cycle, peaking in the morning and declining throughout the day. Its levels naturally decline with age, starting around age 30. Stress, poor sleep, and certain health conditions can also lead to low testosterone, causing symptoms such as decreased libido, fatigue, increased body fat, and decreased muscle strength.