This is your primary stress hormone. It is the master regulator of female health, protecting the brain, heart, and bones. This is the primary and most potent form of estrogen. While men have a steady state, women have a monthly cycle (pre-menopause) or a settled state (post-menopause). It is produced by converting some of your testosterone into estradiol via an enzyme called aromatase. In fact, it is critical for male libido, joint health, and bone density. Low levels directly affect libido, arousal, and erectile quality. Men with low testosterone consistently report fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest or caffeine. Testosterone drives energy production at the cellular level. Testosterone levels decrease approximately 1-2% per year after age 30, according to the American Urological Association. Men experience a more gradual hormonal decline, often called andropause. Cortisol dysregulation, where cortisol stays elevated at night instead of declining, is another hormonal driver of poor sleep quality. Excess androgens can trigger breakouts and hair loss along the temples, while low thyroid function causes brittle hair and dry skin. After you or your health care provider has selected and ordered the appropriate hormone panel, Access Medical Labs will send you a kit with all the necessary supplies to collect your saliva sample(s). For many, hormone testing is the first step towards defining their health goals and putting themselves back on track. By addressing hormonal imbalances, you can increase longevity, boost energy, promote reproductive health, and more. From weight loss to mood swings, your hormonal health is fundamental to your daily life. Hormone testing can help you make healthy adjustments during these hormonal shifts. These are the hormones that are the most likely to lead to hormonal imbalances. A high total number doesn't matter if your body can't actually use it. This is the main output of your hormone factory. These orders travel to the factories (like testes in men and ovaries in women) to turn up or down the production of Testosterone and Estrogen. The endocrine system is a vast, interconnected web of signals that controls everything from your muscle mass and bone density to your mood and sex drive. Testosterone levels naturally decline as men get older. How hormone therapy gives you your evenings back Coming home exhausted when you should have energy to play with kids, work on projects, or enjoy evening activities isn’t normal – it’s low testosterone. You’re not weak – your hormones just can’t keep up with what you’re trying to do. An abnormal testosterone test result doesn’t guarantee that you have a medical condition. There’s very little risk to getting a testosterone blood test. The entire procedure (blood draw) for a testosterone test usually takes less than five minutes. Free testosterone is easier for your body to use. A testosterone level that’s too low or high can cause health problems regardless of your sex.
