This page explains more about testosterone, the male sex hormone. It is essential for the development of your sex organs and other male characteristics such as:
Men without enough testosterone can lose their sex drive, feel tired, sad and put on weight.
Although sometimes associated with male aggression, in fact, men need it to deal with everyday stress. You can help maintain your levels by keeping fit and avoiding too much fatty fried food, sugar and caffeine.
The following illustration shows all the ways that testosterone supports the male body.
Most testosterone produced in the male body is made in the testicles. A smaller amount is produced in the adrenal glands, which are located at the top of the kidneys.
Testosterone is therefore affected by orchidectomy, the surgical procedure for testicular cancer. It also plays a role in helping prostate cancer to grow. This means that some prostate cancer treatments involve controlling levels of this hormone.
