Testosterone through the decades: what to expect in your 30s, 40s, and beyond

Testosterone levels decline naturally as we age, and this causes changes in our physical, mental and emotional health. Therefore, it is perfectly all right for your testosterone levels to decline as time goes by, but sometimes, testosterone levels drop suddenly. If this happens to you, you must consult a specialist who can advise you on treatment options, like TRT. Just remember that it is essential to purchase testosterone cypionate online from reputable sources to ensure that the quality is high and the products are safe. 

The 30s

After the age of 30, testosterone levels decline in men by 1% every year. Women also produce testosterone, but it does not begin to decrease until they are between the ages of 45 and 55. 

Men experiencing diminishing testosterone levels during their 30s may notice that they are not as energetic as they used to be. Because their muscle mass is reduced during this time, men may have more difficulties building and maintaining their muscles. When they compare their sexual activity to the way it was in their 20s, they notice that their sex drive has decreased and that they are not as interested in engaging in sexual activity. 

The 40s

In their 40s, the symptoms presented in their 30s continue and worsen. For example, men continue to gain weight as their testosterone levels drop between 1% and 2% each year, and this weight tends to find its way to the midsection. They continue to see decreases in their muscle mass, and this causes them to lose strength. They continue to notice fatigue, and they begin to have cognitive problems. 

Men in their 40s may complain of having a low sex drive, a low sperm count and erectile dysfunction as well. These issues often lead to depression. 

The 50s

In their 50s, testosterone levels continue to decline and cause the already present symptoms to continue, but muscle mass, for example, becomes noticeable to others at this point. Bone density continues to decrease and increases a man’s risk of osteoporosis, which leads to weakened bones and fractures.

When you exercise, you may have noticed that you cannot perform for as long as you could in your younger years, and this could also be because of low testosterone levels. After exercise, it may take longer for your muscles to recover from a punishing routine than it did years before. 

Low testosterone levels also cause mood changes and increased irritability. 

What Is Considered to Be a Low Testosterone Level?

For a man, a low testosterone level is 300 ng/dL or less. This testosterone level causes the symptoms listed above and the following:

  • Irritability
  • Gynecomastia
  • Hair loss
  • Insomnia

For a woman, a low testosterone level is 25 ng/dL or less at the age of 50 or younger. If she is 50 and older, a low testosterone level is 20 ng/dL or less. When this is the case, she may experience the following symptoms: 

  • Fertility issues
  • Menstrual irregularities
  • Weight gain
  • Reduced sexual satisfaction
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Low sex drive
  • Osteoporosis
  • Loss of bone density
  • Muscle weakness
  • Fatigue

The above are typical symptoms, but many men and women do not experience any symptoms associated with low testosterone. If you are unsure of whether or not you are experiencing low testosterone levels, you will need to have a testosterone level test. Once you have done this, you may qualify to receive TRT or testosterone replacement therapy. 

Treatment for Low Testosterone Levels

Many men saw improvements in their symptoms after they began treatment for low testosterone. TRT succeeded in raising men’s testosterone levels so that they experienced less depression, insomnia and fatigue; they also experienced improved erectile dysfunction, sperm count and libido. Some had the pleasure of stating they looked more youthful and felt more energetic and stronger.   

Testosterone Level Test

To receive a prescription for TRT, you must have a blood test so that your doctor can ensure that your testosterone levels are below the norm and that your symptoms are not related to another cause. You will also need to have a physical examination at this time. 

The test that you may be required to have is the total testosterone test. Testosterone is attached to your proteins, but free testosterone is in your blood. The total testosterone test measures both of these.  Testosterone levels are highest between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., so you may be sent to the lab during these times for your test.  

If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s or beyond and recognize the symptoms described above in yourself, we may have the solution you need to relieve these symptoms. We would like to offer you a testosterone test, so contact us at the Medzone Clinic. We treat both men and women and will stop the negative side effects that you are experiencing because of low testosterone. Submit our short form on our website, or call our Los Angeles office. We look forward to hearing from you.