Low testosterone: symptoms, testing and when to see a doctor
Testosterone is a hormone that plays a part in energy, mood, muscle and bone health, sex drive and sperm production. Levels change over a man’s life and can drop for a range of reasons. This page explains the common symptoms, why levels change, how low testosterone is assessed and how a Nexus consultation works.
What low testosterone means
Low testosterone means the body isn’t making as much testosterone as it normally would. Doctors don’t diagnose it from a single number. They look at your symptoms and your blood test results together, and usually confirm a low result with a second test.
Common symptoms
- tiredness and low energy
- lower interest in sex, or changes in sexual function
- low mood, irritability or poor motivation
- difficulty concentrating
- less muscle or strength than usual
- more body fat, particularly around the middle
- poor sleep
Many of these symptoms are common and can have other causes, such as poor sleep, stress, thyroid problems or low iron. That’s why a doctor looks at the whole picture rather than one symptom or one result.
Why testosterone levels change
- Age. Levels tend to fall gradually as men get older, although age alone doesn’t usually explain a clearly low level.
- Weight. Carrying extra weight is linked with lower levels.
- Sleep. Poor sleep, shift work and sleep apnoea can all play a part.
- Illness and stress. Being unwell, long-term health conditions and ongoing stress can lower levels.
- Alcohol and some medicines. Heavy drinking and some medicines can affect testosterone. Tell your doctor about everything you take, including supplements.
- Conditions affecting the testes or pituitary gland. Less commonly, the cause is a problem with where testosterone is made or controlled.
How low testosterone is assessed
Assessment starts with your symptoms and health history, and a blood test, usually taken in the morning when levels are highest. If the result is low, it’s usually repeated on another day to confirm it. Other blood tests help show where the problem may be coming from and check your general health, such as other hormones, blood count, iron, thyroid, blood sugar and cholesterol. Read more about the testosterone blood test.
What happens in a Nexus men’s hormone consultation
- Pathology. Arrange the blood test for your consultation through iMedical.
- Health assessment. Complete the online health assessment about your symptoms, health history and goals.
- Telehealth consultation. A registered medical practitioner calls you by phone and goes through your results and health assessment with you.
- A plan, if appropriate. If treatment is clinically appropriate, your doctor will discuss the options and recommend a plan, with follow-up support. Your doctor may also suggest seeing your GP or a specialist where that’s more appropriate.
Your doctor decides what’s right for you, and a consultation doesn’t guarantee a prescription. Find out about the men’s hormone health and weight management consultation.
Lifestyle factors your doctor may discuss
Sleep, weight, physical activity, alcohol and stress all affect general health, and your doctor may talk with you about how they relate to your results and symptoms.
When to see a doctor in person
See your GP promptly if you notice a lump, swelling or pain in a testicle, swelling or tenderness of breast tissue, or symptoms that came on suddenly.
Frequently asked questions
What is a normal testosterone level?
Reference ranges vary between laboratories and with age, so there isn’t one number that applies to everyone. Your doctor interprets your result alongside your symptoms and other tests.
Is low testosterone common?
It becomes more common with age, and with conditions such as obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Does low testosterone affect fertility?
Testosterone and sperm production are closely linked, so hormone levels are often checked as part of a male fertility assessment. If you’re planning a family, the men’s fertility consultation includes a semen analysis and hormone tests.
Is low testosterone dangerous?
It can be linked with other health issues, such as changes in bone strength, and sometimes points to another condition that needs attention. That’s why it’s worth having it properly assessed.
Is the consultation done by telehealth?
Yes. Consultations are by phone with a registered medical practitioner, wherever you are in Australia.
Will I be prescribed something?
Only if your doctor decides treatment is clinically appropriate after assessing you. Booking a consultation doesn’t guarantee a prescription.
This page is general information only and isn’t a substitute for advice from your own doctor.
Clinical review
Clinically reviewed by Dr Built Varinporn Amporndanai. AHPRA registration number: MED0002175812.