Testosterone — The Engine Behind Energy, Muscle, and Drive
Testosterone is the hormone most people associate with masculinity, but the full story is more interesting. Yes, it builds muscle, drives libido, and shapes male characteristics. But women produce it too — and it plays a real role in their energy, mood, and body composition. When testosterone drops (or spikes), the effects are hard to ignore. The tricky part? It declines gradually, so you might not notice until you test it.
Why Test Testosterone?
Testing testosterone matters because it touches so many things: muscle growth, fat loss, athletic performance, sex drive, fertility, and mood. In men, low testosterone can cause decreased drive, erectile dysfunction, infertility, and flat energy. In women, abnormal levels can lead to irregular cycles, unwanted hair growth, weight gain, and sleep problems.
What Do High Testosterone Levels Mean?
In men, high testosterone may point to testicular tumours. In boys, it's usually the driver behind early puberty. In women, elevated testosterone can indicate PCOS or an ovarian or adrenal tumour.
What Do Low Testosterone Levels Mean?
Low testosterone can come from ageing, heavy drinking, chronic stress, poor sleep, processed food-heavy diets, obesity, inflammation, hypothyroidism, sleep apnoea, liver cirrhosis, and chronic kidney failure. Certain medications like statins and chemotherapy can also drag it down.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Decreased sex drive and erectile dysfunction
- Fatigue and low energy
- Loss of muscle mass and strength
- Increased body fat
- Mood changes, low mood, or irritability
- Unwanted hair growth or hair loss in women
Who Should Get Tested?
- Men experiencing low libido, fatigue, or erectile dysfunction
- Women with signs of excess androgens (acne, unwanted hair, irregular periods)
- Athletes tracking hormonal health
- Those being evaluated for PCOS or infertility
- Anyone noticing unexplained shifts in body composition or energy
How to Prepare for Your Test
Fast for 10-12 hours before the test. Go to bed at your normal time. Take the test before 10:00 am — testosterone varies throughout the day. Bring valid ID. If you take medication that doesn't need to be taken early, save it for after the blood draw. If you take a supplement containing biotin (often sold for hair and nails), pause it for two days before the test, as high doses can distort the result.
Order Your Blood Test
Test your Testosterone levels with an accredited Swedish laboratory. Results within days, reviewed by Wellth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why must testosterone be tested in the morning?
What is the difference between total and free testosterone?
Can lifestyle changes improve testosterone levels?
Reviewed by
Wellth Team
Wellth
Our content is written and reviewed by Wellth, and fact-checked against peer-reviewed research and current Swedish clinical guidelines.
Learn more about our team →Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Wellth provides health information and testing services but is not a substitute for clinical care. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider if you have questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing severe or urgent symptoms, contact your doctor or call 1177 Vårdguiden. Blood test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of your complete medical history.