Common symptoms of low testosterone
Testosterone is the main male sex hormone. It supports sex drive, energy, muscle, bone strength, mood and the production of red blood cells. Levels tend to fall slowly with age, and some men develop levels low enough to cause symptoms. Doctors call this condition male hypogonadism.
Symptoms often develop gradually, so many men put them down to stress, work or getting older. Symptoms that may be linked to low testosterone include:
- Lower interest in sex or fewer spontaneous erections
- Erection problems
- Ongoing tiredness or low energy
- Low mood, irritability or reduced motivation
- Reduced muscle strength or more body fat, especially around the waist
- Poor concentration or "brain fog"
- Poor sleep
None of these symptoms on their own proves that testosterone is low. Many other conditions, such as thyroid problems, depression, sleep apnoea or diabetes, can cause similar symptoms. Read more in our guide to low testosterone symptoms.
What causes low testosterone
Low testosterone can start in the testes, which make the hormone, or in the pituitary gland and brain, which send the signals that control production. Common contributing factors include:
- Carrying excess body weight
- Type 2 diabetes and other long-term health conditions
- Poor or short sleep, including sleep apnoea
- Heavy alcohol use
- Some medicines, such as long-term opioid or steroid use
- Injury, infection or past treatment affecting the testes
- Genetic conditions and pituitary disorders
Age plays a part, but a gradual decline with age does not mean every older man needs treatment. Our explainer on low testosterone and testosterone levels by age guide cover this in more detail.
Testing for low testosterone in Australia
In Australia, testosterone is measured with a simple blood test. The usual steps are:
- See a GP. Your doctor asks about your symptoms and health history, and may examine you.
- Get a pathology referral. If testing is appropriate, the GP refers you to a pathology collection centre.
- Have a morning blood test. Testosterone is usually highest in the morning, so tests are commonly taken before about 10 am. Other hormones may be checked at the same time.
- Repeat if needed. A single low result is usually confirmed with a second test on another day.
- Review the results. Your doctor explains the results, because reference ranges differ between laboratories.
Many pathology tests requested by a GP can be bulk billed* under Medicare when they meet Medicare criteria. Learn more in our guides to the testosterone blood test in Australia and the bulk-billed testosterone blood test, or read how to read your results.
*Bulk billing depends on Medicare eligibility and your doctor's and pathology provider's billing policies.
When to see a doctor
Book an appointment with your GP if symptoms such as low sex drive, erection problems, low energy or low mood have lasted several weeks or are affecting your work, relationships or wellbeing. It is also worth seeing a doctor if you are planning a family and have concerns about fertility, or if you have a condition such as diabetes that can be linked to low testosterone.
Seek urgent medical help for chest pain, severe headaches, sudden changes in vision or thoughts of self-harm. In an emergency call 000. For mental health support you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
If testing confirms low testosterone, a doctor will discuss whether treatment is suitable, the risks and benefits, and how it would be monitored. Treatment options and costs are discussed with your doctor. See how to get TRT in Australia and TRT vs natural options.
How the Low T Check works
The Low T Check is a free online questionnaire based on the ADAM (Androgen Deficiency in Aging Males) screening tool. It takes about two minutes.
- Answer 10 short yes-or-no questions about your symptoms.
- See whether your answers suggest symptoms worth discussing with a doctor.
- If you may be eligible, you can request the next step towards a bulk billed* hormone blood test.
The questionnaire is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. Only a doctor can diagnose low testosterone, using your symptoms, an examination and blood tests.
Frequently asked questions
What is low testosterone?
Low testosterone means the body is not making enough of the male hormone testosterone. A doctor can only diagnose it by combining your symptoms with morning blood test results, usually repeated on two separate days.
What are the most common symptoms?
Common symptoms include low sex drive, erection problems, tiredness, low mood, reduced strength or muscle, poor concentration and poor sleep. These symptoms have many possible causes, so a doctor needs to assess them.
How is low testosterone tested in Australia?
A GP can refer you for a blood test, usually taken in the morning when levels are highest. If the result is low, the test is often repeated. Medicare may cover the test when your doctor considers it clinically appropriate.
Is the Low T Check a diagnosis?
No. The Low T Check uses the ADAM screening questionnaire to show whether your symptoms may be worth discussing with a doctor. It is general information, not a diagnosis or medical advice.
Can lifestyle affect testosterone levels?
Yes. Sleep, body weight, physical activity, alcohol, stress and some medical conditions or medicines can all affect testosterone levels. A doctor can help you work out which factors apply to you.
When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor if symptoms are affecting your daily life, relationships or wellbeing, or if they have lasted several weeks. Seek urgent help if you have chest pain, thoughts of self-harm or other serious symptoms.
This is general information, not medical advice. Speak to a doctor about your own situation.
