Testosterone is the main male sex hormone. Women make it in smaller amounts. It supports muscle, bone, libido, mood and energy.
- Normal range (adults)
- Men 300–1,000 ng/dL (10.4–35 nmol/L) · Women 15–70 ng/dL (0.52–2.43 nmol/L)
- Sample
- Blood
- Fasting
- Not usually needed
- Also called
- Total Testosterone, Serum Testosterone, T Level, Testosterone Total, Testosterone Serum
Testosterone normal range
| Group | ng/dLConventional units: US, South Asia | nmol/LSI units: UK, Europe, Australia, international |
|---|---|---|
| Men | 300–1,000 | 10.4–35 |
| Women | 15–70 | 0.52–2.43 |
Testosterone is highest in the morning; testing between 7 and 10 am is recommended.
Your report may use either unit system; labs in the Gulf often print both. Ranges also vary slightly between laboratories, so the range printed on your own report is the one to go by.
Why is the Testosterone test done?
It is checked in men with low sex drive, erectile problems, fatigue or infertility, and in women with excess hair growth, acne or irregular periods (PCOS).
What does a high Testosterone level mean?
In men, high testosterone usually comes from testosterone or steroid use. In women, it often points to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Common causes
- Testosterone or anabolic steroid use
- PCOS in women
- Adrenal conditions (congenital adrenal hyperplasia)
- Rarely, hormone-producing tumours
Diet and lifestyle tips
- Women with PCOS: cut sugar and refined carbohydrates, eat high-fibre foods, exercise regularly and lose excess weight
- Stop unprescribed steroid or testosterone products
What does a low Testosterone level mean?
Low testosterone in men can cause low libido, erectile problems, tiredness, low mood and loss of muscle and bone.
Common causes
- Overweight and type 2 diabetes
- Poor sleep or sleep apnoea
- Ageing
- Opioid or steroid medicines
- Testicular or pituitary problems
- Heavy alcohol use
Diet and lifestyle tips
- Lose excess weight; this often raises testosterone
- Strength training and daily activity
- Sleep 7 to 8 hours
- Eat enough zinc and vitamin D sources
- Limit alcohol
When should you see a doctor?
Test in the morning (7 to 10 am) and repeat a low result before treatment is considered.
Last updated
This page is for general education and is not a diagnosis. Normal ranges differ between laboratories, so always compare your result with the reference range printed on your own report, and discuss abnormal results with your doctor.