Testosterone is one of the hormones needed for sexual development and is present in both males and females. Testosterone is considered an androgen, which is a male sex hormone, because it is made in much higher amounts in men than in women.

Testosterone helps strengthen bones and muscles in both men and women. In young men, testosterone signals the body to lower the voice, grow facial hair, and develop sexual characteristics. This hormone is also needed for sperm production.

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerE. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerMatthew I. Kim, MD - Endocrinology
Last RevisedApril 21, 2010

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