What Are Normal Free Testosterone Levels By Age?

What Are Normal Free Testosterone Levels By Age?

If you are suffering from the symptoms of low testosterone, most of the time your doctor will only test for your total testosterone. In most cases, a test for total testosterone is enough for a doctor to make a diagnosis of low testosterone (Low-T). That’s also why it’s best to get your T levels tested through your doctor instead of just going out and getting one on your own. A physician can help you dive into your individual circumstances and help you get the right treatment for your body. The information provided regarding testosterone testing, free T levels, and supplements for low testosterone can be overwhelming. The most commonly asked questions about testosterone levels and their answers can be found below.

We have also discussed how you can measure it and which treatment options you have when your free testosterone is low. But be sure your healthcare provider knows about all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. This includes medicines that don’t need a prescription and any illegal drugs you may use. We’ve crafted multiple ways for you to navigate your data, whether you’re glancing at a single report or delving into your historical test reports. If you’re on the hunt for a specific biomarker, contact us and we’ll add it to our database.

If your testosterone levels are lower than normal free testosterone levels by age, then you may experience the following symptoms. In men, low testosterone can lead to a decrease in sperm production, whereas high levels can impair sperm development. In women, both extremes of testosterone levels can disrupt ovulation and menstrual cycles, affecting fertility. This test is usually done in the morning because testosterone levels tend to be highest at that time. You may need to have this test more than once, and at different times of the day, to confirm low testosterone levels. This is because your testosterone level can change from morning to evening and from day to day.

Some women suspect their testosterone levels are low because they have low libido, but the two do not always correlate. It’s likely that the metabolism of testosterone, rather than absolute levels, is a more important determinant of libido, which can’t be measured [4]. This means that high levels of SHBG can reduce levels of free and bioavailable testosterone. Additionally, managing stress, getting sufficient sleep, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption is essential for hormonal balance. You can also sign up for 6 Week Home workout program or The Dad Bod Transformation to get into healthy habits.

When it comes to normal free testosterone levels during adolescence and early adulthood, there are distinct ranges and variations to consider. Research conducted by Smith et al. (2019), published in the Journal of Endocrinology, sheds light on this topic. According to the Endocrine Society’s Clinical Practice Guidelines, the normal range for free testosterone in women is typically between 0.3 to 1.9 ng/dL (nanograms per deciliter). However, it’s important to note that these ranges may vary slightly depending on the specific laboratory and testing method used. Free testosterone and albumin-bound testosterone are called bioavailable testosterone.

Free testosterone levels are an important aspect of male health and overall well-being. It is crucial to understand what a healthy range of free testosterone levels should be in order to assess and address any underlying health concerns. Low levels of free testosterone can contribute to a variety of symptoms such as fatigue, decreased libido, and even mood swings. On the other hand, excessively high levels of free testosterone can also have negative effects on the body. Finding the right balance is key, and understanding what free testosterone levels should be can help both men and their healthcare providers make informed decisions about their health. Testosterone imbalance, encompassing both low and high levels, can arise from a myriad of causes, ranging from natural physiological changes to lifestyle factors and medical conditions.

A smaller amount of the hormone is also lightly bound to a protein called albumin. Free T is the type of T your body uses, and knowing your free testosterone levels is an important marker of good health. If your free testosterone levels are too low, testosterone replacement therapy may be needed.

Meanwhile, some studies have found associations between low testosterone levels and symptoms like reduced cognitive function, brain fog, decreased motivation, and mood changes, according to Bailey. “A decline in testosterone can impact libido and sexual performance, which may strain intimate relationships and reduce quality of life,” he says. Research suggests that low testosterone levels may be more common among young men today compared to previous decades. Multiple large-scale studies have shown that average testosterone levels in men, including adolescents and young adults, have been on the decline over the past few decades, according to Houman.

If you’re curious, or just want to make sure you’re not deficient, total testosterone will likely give you your answer. This is usually the first step in investigating symptoms of hypogonadism (low testosterone) and makes a great screening test. That’s because the testosterone-albumin bond is easily reversible, meaning testosterone frequently switches between active and inactive forms. This effect is greatest in men as a greater proportion of their testosterone binds to albumin. Total testosterone refers to all forms of testosterone in the bloodstream.

Albumin-bound testosterone has a weak bond and is, therefore, also classified as bioavailable testosterone. Testosterone testing (you can measure just total T or both total and free T) helps deliver results and sometimes is even used to diagnose health conditions such as erectile dysfunction or infertility. In 2025, clinics like AlphaMan, a men’s health center specializing in hormone optimization, are rethinking how testosterone therapy fits into modern masculinity. Because when it comes to low testosterone, the stakes extend far beyond the gym. Even high-performing men balancing careers, families, and fitness can find themselves battling unexplained fatigue, diminished focus, low libido, and persistent sluggishness despite adequate rest. “Lifting also promotes muscle growth, reduces visceral fat, and further aids metabolism, which supports overall hormone health and well-being,” says Bailey.