•  
  •  

Testosterone

Testosterone is one of the hormones needed for sexual development and is present in both males and females. Testosterone is considered an androgen, which is a male sex hormone, because it is made in much higher amounts in men than in women.

Testosterone helps strengthen bones and muscles in both men and women. In young men, testosterone signals the body to lower the voice, grow facial hair, and develop sexual characteristics. This hormone is also needed for sperm production.

Last Revised: April 21, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Matthew I. Kim, MD - Endocrinology

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.