Testosterone has been in the spotlight in recent months — from bloggers' advice on how to become more "masculine" to the U.S. Department of Defense's decision to check the hormone levels of servicemen over 30, writes [IFLScience](https://www.iflscience.com/t-maxxing-and-a-high-t-us-military-everywhere-you-look-men-are-being-sold-testosterone-and-its-very-frightening-84353). However, experts warn that many myths have formed around testosterone. According to consultant urologist, andrologist, and head of the male fertility department at the Royal London Hospital, Maria Satchi, the idea that testosterone levels determine a man's masculinity does not align with modern scientific data. > "We now know that testosterone is not just a hormone that makes a man masculine. Yes, it affects the development of male physical traits, but it is not a measure of a person's masculinity," the doctor notes. Testosterone does play an important role in the body. During puberty, it is responsible for the development of the reproductive organs, sperm production, voice changes, muscle mass growth, and it influences libido. Additionally, the hormone is involved in maintaining bone density and overall well-being. At the same time, low testosterone levels can be accompanied not only by sexual disorders but also by decreased energy, mood deterioration, loss of muscle mass, and difficulties with physical exertion. However, such symptoms alone do not indicate the need for hormone therapy. According to specialists, testosterone deficiency occurs in only 1–2% of men under 50. Many young people begin to worry over slight deviations in test results, although treatment is usually not required without characteristic symptoms. The doctor notes that the decline in testosterone levels with age is a natural process. Moreover, factors such as obesity, metabolic disorders, stress, chronic diseases, and even lack of sleep can influence the levels. ## Testosterone Has Become Part of Political Discussions In recent years, the topic of testosterone has gone far beyond medicine. Public health researchers note that the idea that high hormone levels are supposedly the main sign of a "real man" and that low levels must be "corrected" is actively promoted online. In this context, the U.S. Department of Defense announced a new program for servicemen. According to the initiative, soldiers over 30 will undergo mandatory testing for testosterone levels, and if low levels are detected, they will be offered hormone replacement therapy. For servicemen under 30, testing remains voluntary. Some experts have criticized this initiative. In their opinion, a single test does not allow for a diagnosis, as testosterone levels can vary significantly depending on physical exertion, stress, sleep quality, and other factors — conditions that are particularly characteristic of military service. Maria Satchi emphasizes that the decision to treat should never be made based solely on one blood test. > "We never prescribe treatment based on a single result. It is necessary to consider both symptoms and repeated measurements of testosterone levels," she says. ## The Dangers of Uncontrolled Hormone Use According to specialists, today testosterone is increasingly being obtained without medical supervision — through the internet, acquaintances, or sports clubs. Many are unaware of the possible consequences. Excessive intake of the hormone from outside suppresses the body's own production of testosterone and sperm. As a result, a man may develop infertility and reduced testicle size. Additionally, some testosterone is converted to estradiol, which can lead to breast tissue enlargement. Among other possible complications, doctors cite an increased risk of thrombosis, heart attack, stroke, the appearance of acne, and hair loss. The danger increases when using drugs of unknown origin, which may contain incorrect dosages or harmful impurities. According to Maria Satchi, it is the consequences of uncontrolled hormone use that are increasingly leading young men to reproductive medicine clinics. > "These patients come to us already with infertility. Many did not even know that prolonged testosterone use could lead to such consequences," the specialist notes. Today, doctors believe that testosterone remains an important hormone for the health of both men and women, but its use should be strictly justified by medical indications and monitored by specialists. The main conclusion from experts is that it is necessary to treat the disease and symptoms, rather than striving to artificially raise numbers in test results.
