Some researchers find success with very low, frequent AI doses (0.125mg anastrozole every other day) that provide gentle, consistent estrogen modulation without dramatic fluctuations. Experienced researchers may benefit from sophisticated approaches to estrogen optimization that go beyond basic AI protocols. Consider individual compound effects before combining protocols. "There are no established optimal testosterone levels for women, so most clinicians use a lab reference range to diagnose a woman with high testosterone," Dr. Dorr says. Like other hormone types, there’s a chance that someone can have abnormal testosterone levels. Most frequently, claims to "boost T or free T", "build body lean mass or muscle mass", or "increase sex drive or libido" were advertised by the supplements. Testosterone therapy does not appear to increase the risk of prostate cancer, but it can stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells. Some men and women experience immediate side effects of testosterone treatment, such as acne, disturbed breathing while sleeping, breast swelling or tenderness, or swelling in the ankles. However, many men with normal testosterone levels have similar symptoms, so a direct connection between testosterone levels and symptoms is not always clear. The cost of at-home testosterone testing kits varies, with costs ranging from $50 to $200. In some instances, insurance may fully or partially cover the costs of in-person or at-home testosterone testing. There are at-home testing kits available online, but the results are best discussed with a healthcare provider. Menopause is often the reason why women experience a change in their sex drive. Menopause, which occurs as a woman ages, can lead to a lower amount of testosterone produced by the ovaries. Testosterone levels are measured and reported as nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). All of this reduces the active (free) form of testosterone in the body. Also, as men get older, their livers make more sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), which binds to testosterone circulating in the bloodstream. In recent years, researchers (and pharmaceutical companies) have focused on the effects of testosterone deficiency, especially among men. One treatment available for many of these problems is spironolactone, a special type of diuretic (water pill) that blocks the action of male sex hormones. Among women, perhaps the most common cause of a high testosterone level is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In addition, what may seem like a symptom of testosterone excess (see below) may actually be unrelated to this hormone. A nutrient-rich diet emphasizing whole foods can help provide cofactors involved in hormone pathways. Many men notice gradual changes in energy, strength, mood, or libido that may relate to shifting hormone balance. Levels naturally decline with age, but lifestyle factors, stress, body composition, and nutrient status can influence them further. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Check with them before you try supplements, both for safety and to make sure you'll get the results you're looking for. Women and people assigned female at birth also produce testosterone. Men aren't the only ones who may benefit from testosterone boosters. Here are eight evidence-based ways to increase your testosterone levels naturally. Additionally, increasing your testosterone to optimal levels may increase muscle mass and strength. People assigned female at birth produce testosterone but in lower quantities and have higher levels of estrogen, another hormone. Testosterone affects many aspects of your health, from sexual function to disease risk. Normal levels of testosterone may be achievable with hormone therapy and lifestyle adjustments. Some research shows that low vitamin D levels may be linked to lower testosterone levels. Eating enough protein can help you maintain healthy testosterone levels and can aid in fat loss, which may be beneficial, too. According to a 2020 literature review, the effects on testosterone levels can vary based on several factors, including the type of exercise and the training intensity. Testosterone therapy is approved for the treatment of delayed male puberty and abnormally low production of testosterone secondary to malfunction of the testes, pituitary or hypothalamus. For example, a man with osteoporosis and low testosterone can increase bone strength and reduce his fracture risk with testosterone replacement. In fact, as men age, testosterone levels drop very gradually, about 1% to 2% each year — unlike the relatively rapid drop in estrogen that causes menopause. Regarding mental health, testosterone may help certain people with their depression symptoms; this is especially important for patients with hypogonadism, such as elderly people, for whom testosterone replacement therapy may be quite beneficial .
