Scientific data reveals a steady decline in testosterone levels as men age. UK prescription rates jumped by nearly 90% between 2000 and 2010 . This essential male hormone reaches its peak during early adulthood and decreases by about 1% each year after age 30, based on NHS data . Men's testosterone levels have dropped by an alarming 20% in the past two decades .
The standard reference range stands at 8.6–29 nmol/L , but these numbers don't paint the complete picture. Research indicates a gradual testosterone decline from 17.5 nmol/L in men aged 18-29 to 16.4 nmol/L by ages 60-69 . Men in their early 20s usually maintain total testosterone between 14.2 and 19.3 nmol/L. The levels move downward to between 12.1 and 16.4 nmol/L by their early 40s . This complete guide explores normal testosterone ranges for older men, especially when you have reached 60, 65, 70, 75, and 80+. You'll learn what to expect and the right time to ask for support.
Understanding Testosterone and Its Role in Ageing
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Testosterone is the life-blood of male physiology. This powerful hormone doesn't just handle reproduction - it runs a complex network of bodily functions that shape every aspect of men's health and well-being throughout their lives.
What testosterone does in the male body
The body makes testosterone through an intricate biological pathway controlled by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. The process starts in the brain when the hypothalamus releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). This hormone tells the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) [1]. These hormones then travel to the testes, where LH signals the Leydig cells to produce testosterone. The testicles make about 95% of a man's testosterone [2].
A man's body needs testosterone for many vital functions. The hormone controls sexual development and function, including testicular descent, sperm production, genital growth, and sex drive [3]. It also shapes male features like facial and body hair patterns and makes the voice deeper [3].
Testosterone does much more than define sexual traits. The hormone helps build muscle size and strength while reducing belly fat [4]. It helps protein production and turns certain cells into muscle cells [4]. Your body also uses testosterone to make red blood cells, which explains why men typically have higher blood counts than women [3].
This hormone plays a big role in bone health [4]. It also helps regulate mood and brain function, though scientists are still learning about its full effects on the mind [2].
Why testosterone matters after 60
Men's testosterone levels start dropping by 1-2% each year from around age 40 [5][1]. By 70, the average man's testosterone production falls about 30% below its highest point [2]. This natural decline becomes really important after 60, as muscle loss speeds up due to lower testosterone and usually less physical activity [5].
Healthy testosterone levels become even more crucial for men over 60 since low levels can trigger various age-related health issues. Studies show that one-third of men over 45 have testosterone levels below normal for their age [5]. About 16-18% of men over 65 have clinically low testosterone - below 280 ng/dL [1].
Low testosterone after 60 affects the body in several ways:
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Musculoskeletal changes - Muscle mass drops 1-2% yearly while strength decreases 1.5-3% annually starting in the thirties [4]. Bone density also falls, making fractures more likely [4]
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Body composition shifts - Men gain more belly fat and face higher obesity risks [4]
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Sexual function decline - Sex drive drops, erectile problems increase, and sperm production decreases [3][4]
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Psychological effects - Men might feel moody, irritable, have trouble focusing, or show signs of depression [3][1]
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Energy regulation - Fatigue sets in more easily, stamina drops, and sleep problems may occur [4]
A newer study on andropause in men over 60 (https://goldmanlaboratories.com/blogs/blog/andropause-men-over-60) shows these symptoms can substantially affect quality of life. Research following 794 men aged 50-91 found that low testosterone relates to higher death rates over 20 years, even after accounting for other health factors [1].
Studies prove that testosterone replacement therapy can boost sexual function, mood, and physical performance in older men with confirmed low levels [1]. This treatment becomes especially relevant for men over 70 with low testosterone who might experience stronger symptoms.
Testosterone's importance after 60 goes way beyond physical health. The hormone helps maintain brain function, emotional well-being, and overall vitality - all vital for staying independent and enjoying life as you age. Research also shows that balanced nutrition significantly affects male hormones, offering natural ways to support healthy testosterone levels by age.
Testosterone Levels by Age: UK Chart for Men 60 to 80+
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Men's testosterone production changes as they age. Unlike women who experience sudden hormonal changes during menopause, men's testosterone levels drop slowly but steadily. These changes affect their health and quality of life in later years.
Normal testosterone men 60
UK laboratory reference ranges for testosterone in adult males range from 8.7–29 nmol/L (250–836 ng/dL) [3]. NHS labs use a similar range of 6-27 nmol/L [6]. These standard ranges don't account for age-related changes in hormone production.
Research shows that by age 60, the average man has testosterone levels around 19.49 nmol/L [1]. This represents about 70% of the testosterone production found in 20-40 year old men [2]. UK health testing services show men aged 60-69 average about 16.4 nmol/L [7].
Note that about 20% of men over 60 have total testosterone levels below the normal reference range [8][3]. The decline matches physical changes, and symptoms appear when testosterone drops below specific levels:
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Below 15 nmol/L: Reduced energy levels
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Below 12 nmol/L: Weight gain
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Below 10 nmol/L: Low mood
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Below 8 nmol/L: Erectile dysfunction [9]
These thresholds help men with [andropause symptoms over 60](https://goldmanlaboratories.com/blogs/blog/andropause-men-over-60) understand how hormone levels relate to physical symptoms.
Average testosterone 65
Testosterone production keeps declining as men reach their mid-sixties. Research reveals the average total testosterone level for men aged 65-74 is about 18.15 nmol/L [1]. This shows a small but measurable drop from their early sixties.
Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels rise to around 48.7 by ages 65-74 [1], up from 45.5 in the 55-64 age bracket. This matters because SHBG binds to testosterone and makes it biologically inactive. Free testosterone availability drops more than total testosterone measurements suggest.
Free testosterone (the biologically active form) drops faster than total testosterone during this period—falling at 2-3% yearly compared to 1.6% for total testosterone [8]. Many men in their mid-60s start noticing more symptoms even with seemingly adequate total testosterone levels on standard tests.
Testosterone range elderly: 70 and 75
Testosterone production shows bigger decreases by ages 70-75. Men in the 75-84 age bracket average about 16.32 nmol/L of total testosterone [1]. SHBG levels rise to about 51.0 during this time [1], which further reduces the amount of free testosterone available to tissues.
The American Urology Association sets low testosterone at 10.4 nmol/L [3], while UK clinicians often use 8 nmol/L as their treatment threshold [3]. Symptoms in men over 70 often show up at higher testosterone levels than the official "low" threshold suggests.
The gap between "normal" reference ranges and levels needed for symptom relief becomes clear at this life stage. Men might experience symptoms even with "normal" total testosterone due to high SHBG and low free testosterone.
Testosterone levels in men 80+
Men over 80 face the biggest testosterone deficiency. Research shows about 50% have total testosterone levels below normal range [8][3]. The average total testosterone for men aged 85-100 drops to about 13.05 nmol/L [1], while SHBG levels jump to 65.9 [1].
These hormonal changes affect everything from muscle mass and bone density to energy levels and mood. Low testosterone combined with high SHBG creates a challenging situation for hormonal health.
Keeping adequate testosterone levels becomes harder with age, though balanced nutrition supports healthy male hormones at any age. Many men need closer monitoring and possible interventions as their testosterone reaches these lower levels.
Total vs Free Testosterone: What’s the Difference?
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Understanding lab results means knowing the difference between testosterone forms in the bloodstream. This knowledge becomes more important for older men because hormone patterns change with age.
What is total testosterone?
Total testosterone is the sum of all testosterone in the bloodstream, whatever its form or availability to tissues. Blood tests measure this value first. Adult males have UK reference ranges from 8.6–29 nmol/L.
Many doctors look at total testosterone values when they evaluate men over 60. This measurement alone doesn't give us the full picture. Total testosterone has both bound and unbound hormone molecules—a vital difference when we look at symptoms in ageing men.
Let's look at an example. A man's testosterone test shows 16 nmol/L. This number shows the total amount across all forms. Doctors need more tests to know how much testosterone is actually working in the body. Men often get confused when they have symptoms of andropause over 60 even with "normal" total testosterone results.
What is free testosterone?
Free testosterone moves through the bloodstream without being bound to other molecules. It makes up just 2-3% of total testosterone. This unbound form stays active and can work with testosterone receptors throughout the body.
The rest of the testosterone splits into two groups:
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About 40-50% sticks tightly to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)
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About 50-55% loosely attaches to albumin
Free testosterone plus albumin-bound testosterone can work in body tissues. Together, they make up "bioavailable testosterone." SHBG-bound testosterone stays inactive.
Testing free testosterone gives us better information, especially for men who have low testosterone over 70. Regular tests might skip this measurement unless someone asks for it. This test often explains why symptoms continue even when total levels look fine.
Why free testosterone matters more with age
Free testosterone becomes more important as men move through their 60s, 70s, and beyond. SHBG levels go up about 1.2% each year. By age 70, SHBG levels can be 40% higher than at age 40.
Higher SHBG levels affect free testosterone more than you might think. Total testosterone drops by 1-1.2% yearly, but free testosterone falls almost twice as fast—about 2-3% each year. This explains why many older men feel symptoms of low testosterone even with normal total levels.
Men over 60 show a stronger link between their symptoms and free testosterone levels than total testosterone. Research shows that a 75-year-old man with 15 nmol/L total testosterone has less active hormone than a 45-year-old with similar total values.
These findings matter in clinical practise. NHS guidelines mostly look at total testosterone, which might miss real deficiencies in older men. More doctors now see that free testosterone gives a better picture of hormone health in elderly patients.
Men going through age-related changes need both values checked. Natural remedies for male andropause and balanced nutrition supporting male hormones work better with complete testing that measures both types.
Men who track their testosterone changes in later years should understand this difference. It helps them make sense of test results and talk better with their doctors about hormone levels and possible treatments.
Why 'Normal' Testosterone Ranges Are Controversial
The concept of a universal "normal" testosterone range becomes more complex as we look at how labs set these ranges. A deeper look at standard reference range limitations explains why many men have symptoms even with "normal" test results.
How lab reference ranges are calculated
Labs derive testosterone reference ranges from population studies rather than clinical outcomes. To cite an instance, see how a landmark study by the Endocrine Society created a harmonised normal range of 264-916 ng/dL for non-obese European and American men aged 19-39 [10]. The Framingham Heart Study also set reference ranges between 348 and 1197 ng/dl [5].
These ranges usually come from healthy young men's samples without factoring in age-related changes. Labs in different regions use various methodologies, which leads to substantial variations between testing facilities [11]. Even hospitals within the UK's NHS system can set their own reference intervals [12].
Problems with using population averages
Using population averages creates several clinical challenges. What's "normal" varies tremendously between individuals—a low level for one person might work fine for another [13]. These ranges don't account for temporary changes from stress, sleep patterns, and illness [13].
Standardised ranges become especially problematic for older men. The Endocrine Society sets a lower threshold at 264 ng/dL, but a study of elderly community-dwelling men found their lower reference limit was only 145 ng/dL [5]. This difference shows why many men over 60 with real symptoms might get a "normal" classification despite having clinical testosterone deficiency.
Different organisations also present conflicting thresholds:
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International Society of Andrology: <230 ng/dl requires treatment
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Endocrine Society: 280–300 ng/dl threshold to consider therapy [5]
Why symptoms matter more than numbers
Medical experts now recognise that symptom assessment provides better clinical guidance than lab values alone. Research shows symptoms relate better to free testosterone than total levels, especially when you have altered SHBG [14]. This explains why men with "normal" total testosterone but low free testosterone often experience andropause symptoms over 60.
Clinical practise now takes a symptoms-first approach. The Canadian guideline for testosterone deficiency syndrome puts more weight on clinical history, physical examination, and therapy response than strict laboratory cutoffs [15]. This approach matters most for men with low testosterone over 70 who might show "normal" total levels but significant symptoms.
Quality of life assessment provides a more patient-centred approach to managing hormonal health throughout the ageing process, rather than just focusing on laboratory numbers.
When Should You Be Concerned About Your Levels?
Image Source: Verywell Health
You need to know at the time to worry about your testosterone levels by understanding symptoms and clinical thresholds. Men often notice symptoms before their numbers drop below official "low" ranges. Early warning signs become valuable indicators.
Symptoms of low testosterone in older men
Physical and emotional changes signal declining testosterone levels. These key signs include:
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Sexual function changes - Reduced libido, fewer spontaneous erections (especially morning erections), and erectile dysfunction [16]
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Body composition changes - Decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, and development of breast tissue (gynaecomastia) [4]
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Psychological symptoms - Irritability, poor concentration, depression, and memory difficulties [17]
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Energy patterns - Excessive fatigue, sleep disturbances, and decreased stamina [18]
Men who experience andropause over 60 notice these symptoms one after another rather than all at once. Energy levels usually drop first, then mood changes occur, and sexual function becomes affected later.
Thresholds for concern: NHS vs BSSM
The NHS and British Society for Sexual Medicine (BSSM) have different threshold recommendations. The NHS sets testosterone deficiency at levels below 8 nmol/L [19]. However, many men with low testosterone over 70 feel symptoms at much higher levels.
The BSSM acknowledges that symptoms appear at higher levels:
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Below 15 nmol/L - Reduced energy and vigour [20]
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Below 12 nmol/L - Obesity concerns [20]
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Below 10 nmol/L - Depression [20]
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Below 8 nmol/L - Sexual dysfunction [20]
The Centre for Men's Health reports that men experience symptoms at levels as high as 15 nmol/L despite the NHS's lower threshold [6].
When to consider testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)
Doctors recommend TRT when:
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Total testosterone drops below 8 nmol/L with symptoms [9]
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Levels stay between 8-12 nmol/L with free testosterone below 0.225 nmol/L and symptoms appear [9]
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Sexual symptoms (libido loss, erectile dysfunction) continue alongside low levels [21]
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Osteoporosis or significant anaemia occurs without other explanations [19]
Proper testing protocol remains essential—morning samples (before 10am), fasting, and repeated on separate occasions [19]. Some lifestyle changes including balanced nutrition supporting male hormones might help optimise testosterone naturally.
How to Track and Optimise Testosterone Over Time
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Men need to track their testosterone levels more carefully as they move into their 60s and beyond. The good news is that several practical options help monitor and maintain optimal hormone levels.
How to test testosterone at home or with a GP
Testing testosterone no longer requires long visits to your GP. Home test kits are accessible to more people now. These kits let men collect small blood samples using finger prick devices [22]. Results typically arrive within 3-5 working days after mailing samples to laboratories with prepaid postage [23]. Your GP can still order tests, especially when you have NHS-funded testing needs [22].
Best time of day to test
Testosterone follows a distinct daily pattern and peaks between 7:00-10:00am [24]. Men over 60 experience this morning variation slightly less but levels still remain by a lot higher—about 10% more in mornings compared to afternoons [24]. Your most accurate readings come from samples collected right after waking [23]. This timing matters even more for low testosterone men over 70.
Tracking trends vs one-off results
One-time measurements can mislead since testosterone levels naturally fluctuate. Your total testosterone can vary between tests—about 30% of borderline-low readings return to normal range with retesting [25]. Regular baseline measurements that track changes over time are a great way to get insights compared to single results [26].
Lifestyle changes to support healthy levels
Research shows these approaches help maintain testosterone levels:
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Weight management - Extra body fat lowers testosterone levels by a lot [27]
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Regular exercise - Resistance training and cardiovascular activities boost production [27]
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Nutrition - Balanced nutrition supporting male hormones has healthy fats and proteins [27]
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Sleep quality - REM sleep produces most testosterone [27]
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Stress management - Long-term stress raises cortisol and interferes with testosterone production [27]
Conclusion
Testosterone levels play a vital role for men in their 60s, 70s, and beyond. Lab tests show 8.6–29 nmol/L as "normal," but this detailed analysis shows how these broad ranges have their limits. Your total testosterone drops about 1% each year after 30, while free testosterone - the form your body can use - falls even faster at 2-3% yearly.
Your testosterone follows a clear pattern as you age. Average levels drop from 16.4 nmol/L in your 60s to about 13 nmol/L by 80+. SHBG levels rise steadily too, which means less hormone reaches your tissues even when total testosterone looks fine.
Many guys experience symptoms of andropause over 60 even with "normal" readings. These signs show up in order - first comes low energy, then mood swings, and later sexual function problems. Each symptom links to specific levels: energy drops below 15 nmol/L, weight changes under 12 nmol/L, and erectile problems below 8 nmol/L.
Men with low testosterone over 70 need extra attention since symptoms can appear even with seemingly good lab results. Tracking changes over time gives a better picture than single readings. Morning tests are vital because levels peak from 7:00-10:00am, though this daily pattern becomes less pronounced with age.
Testosterone replacement might help men who show consistently low levels and clear symptoms. Simple lifestyle changes can boost your hormone production naturally. A healthy weight, exercise, good sleep, and less stress all help maintain optimal testosterone. Balanced nutrition supporting male hormones builds the foundation for hormone health.
Regular checkups combined with healthy habits work best. Find a doctor who looks at both your symptoms and lab numbers rather than just the test results. This approach helps you stay healthy as you age by addressing how hormones affect your daily life.
Your testosterone will naturally decrease with age, but you don't have to accept all its effects. Knowledge about natural remedies for male andropause and proper hormone levels lets you take charge of your hormonal health through your 60s, 70s, and beyond.
Key Takeaways
Understanding testosterone levels by age helps UK men over 60 make informed decisions about their hormonal health and recognise when symptoms warrant medical attention.
• Testosterone naturally declines 1% annually from age 30, with free testosterone dropping faster at 2-3% yearly due to rising SHBG levels
• Average testosterone levels drop from 16.4 nmol/L at 60-69 to 13.05 nmol/L by age 80+, yet symptoms often appear above "low" thresholds
• Free testosterone matters more than total levels for older men, as SHBG increases 40% by age 70, reducing hormone availability
• Symptoms emerge at predictable thresholds: below 15 nmol/L for fatigue, 12 nmol/L for weight gain, 8 nmol/L for sexual dysfunction
• Morning testing (7-10am) and tracking trends over time provide more accurate assessments than single measurements or population averages
• Lifestyle interventions including weight management, exercise, quality sleep, and balanced nutrition can naturally support healthy testosterone levels
The key insight is that "normal" laboratory ranges don't account for individual symptoms or age-related changes. Men experiencing fatigue, mood changes, or sexual dysfunction should consider comprehensive testing and lifestyle optimisation, regardless of whether their levels fall within standard reference ranges.
FAQs
Q1. What are normal testosterone levels for men over 60 in the UK? Normal testosterone levels for UK men over 60 typically range from 8.6 to 29 nmol/L. However, average levels decrease with age, with men in their 60s averaging around 16.4 nmol/L, dropping to about 13 nmol/L by age 80+.
Q2. How does testosterone decline affect men as they age? Testosterone decline can lead to various symptoms in ageing men, including reduced energy levels, increased body fat, mood changes, and sexual dysfunction. These effects often appear gradually, with energy levels typically affected first, followed by mood changes and then sexual function issues.
Q3. Why is free testosterone important for older men? Free testosterone is crucial for older men because it represents the biologically active form of the hormone. As men age, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels increase, reducing the amount of free testosterone available. This means that even with normal total testosterone levels, older men may experience symptoms of deficiency.
Q4. When should men consider testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)? Men should consider TRT when their total testosterone falls below 8 nmol/L with symptoms present, or between 8-12 nmol/L with free testosterone below 0.225 nmol/L and symptoms. It's also considered when sexual symptoms persist alongside low levels or when osteoporosis or significant anaemia occurs without alternative explanations.
Q5. How can men naturally support healthy testosterone levels? Men can support healthy testosterone levels through lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise (both resistance and cardiovascular), ensuring quality sleep, managing stress, and following a balanced diet rich in healthy fats and proteins. These approaches can be effective in optimising testosterone production naturally.
References
[1] - https://www.optimale.co.uk/articles/normal-male-testosterone-levels/
[2] - https://www.exeterlaboratory.com/test/testosterone/
[3] - https://goldmanlaboratories.com/blogs/blog/testosterone-test-uk?srsltid=AfmBOooP6-60GKfSQPgufQ7romW7AxXNV7bKGTZI7lrhhe9x0FYqOBXY
[4] - https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/male-menopause/
[5] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5516925/
[6] - https://www.centreformenshealth.co.uk/can-i-get-trt-on-the-nhs
[7] - https://www.forthwithlife.co.uk/blog/uk-testosterone-statistics/
[8] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2544367/
[9] - https://bswtogether.org.uk/medicines/documents/testosterone-in-men-prescribing-guidance/
[10] - https://www.endocrine.org/news-and-advocacy/news-room/2017/landmark-study-defines-normal-ranges-for-testosterone-levels
[11] - https://theconversation.com/testosterone-why-defining-a-normal-level-is-hard-to-do-113587
[12] - https://www.gloshospitals.nhs.uk/our-services/services-we-offer/pathology/tests-and-investigations/testosterone/
[13] - https://www.thrivelab.com/mens-health-blog/why-symptom-assessment-is-more-effective-than-testosterone-level-checks-for-male-testosterone-replacement-therapy?c084cac1_page=2
[14] - https://www.numan.com/low-testosterone/diagnosis/total-vs-free-testosterone
[15] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4674398/
[16] - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15603-low-testosterone-male-hypogonadism
[17] - https://www.urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/l/low-testosterone
[18] - https://www.bupa.co.uk/newsroom/ourviews/low-testosterone-men
[19] - https://www.nnuh.nhs.uk/publication/download/adult-testosterone-replacement-and-monitoring-jcg0043-v4/
[20] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10307648/
[21] - https://bssm.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/BSSM-Practical-Guide-High-Res-single-pp-view-final.pdf
[22] - https://onlinedoctor.lloydspharmacy.com/uk/lifestyle-advice/how-to-test-testosterone-at-home
[23] - https://onlinedoctor.superdrug.com/testosterone-test-kit.html
[24] - https://www.endocrinology.org/endocrinologist/134-winter19/features/24-hours-in-the-life-of-a-hormone-what-time-is-the-right-time-for-a-pituitary-function-test/
[25] - https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/whats-the-best-way-to-test-for-low-testosterone
[26] - https://onedaytests.com/blogs/mens-health/can-time-of-day-affect-testosterone-levels?srsltid=AfmBOorcLjrzD5tgeeqzX5730v9ADIFkVESvhGnTdMj_M-QW47Nddajd
[27] - https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/lifestyle-strategies-to-help-prevent-natural-age-related-decline-in-testosterone
