What Are the Key Male Hormones?

Understanding how hormones affect men’s health and wellbeing

Hormones often get all the spotlight when we talk about women’s health, but did you know male hormones play just as vital a role in overall wellbeing? From energy levels and mood to muscle mass and fertility, hormones regulate a wide range of functions in the male body.

In this blog, we’ll break down the key male hormones, what they do, and why they matter. So, if you’ve ever wondered about testosterone or felt “not quite yourself” lately, this guide is for you.

What Are Hormones, Anyway?

Hormones are chemical messengers produced by glands in your endocrine system. They travel through your bloodstream and tell different organs and tissues what to do.

In men, hormones help with:

• Sexual function

• Muscle growth and strength

• Mood and mental health

• Bone density

• Energy and sleep cycles

Let’s take a closer look at the main male hormones and how they affect your health.

1. Testosterone – The Main Player

When it comes to male hormones, testosterone is the big name. Produced mainly in the testicles, testosterone controls:

• Libido (sex drive)

• Sperm production

• Muscle and bone mass

• Voice deepening during puberty

• Fat distribution

Low testosterone (also called low T) can lead to fatigue, low mood, reduced muscle mass, and even erectile dysfunction.

🧠 Fun Fact: Testosterone levels naturally start to decline around age 30, dropping about 1% each year.

2. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) – The Hair & Hormone Link

DHT is a more potent form of testosterone. It plays a key role in male development, especially during puberty.

However, too much DHT can be linked to:

• Male pattern baldness

• Enlarged prostate

• Acne

DHT is essential, but like most things in the body, balance is everything.

3. Androstenedione – The Precursor Hormone

Androstenedione is a hormone your body uses to make both testosterone and oestrogen. It’s produced in the adrenal glands and testes.

While not as well-known, it plays a part in:

• The development of secondary male characteristics

• Hormonal balance

You might not feel its effects directly, but it’s a crucial step in the hormone chain.

4. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) – The All-Rounder

DHEA is often called the “parent hormone” because it helps produce testosterone and oestrogen.

It's linked to:

• Mood regulation

• Immune system function

• Skin and bone health

DHEA levels peak in your mid-20s and gradually decline with age.

5. Luteinising Hormone (LH) – The Trigger

Produced by the pituitary gland, LH tells your testicles to produce testosterone. Without it, testosterone production would slow right down.

Low LH levels can be a sign of a problem with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus.

6. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) – The Fertility Hormone

FSH is another hormone from the pituitary gland. It’s key for:

• Sperm production

• Testicular growth

Problems with FSH can lead to fertility issues in men.

What Happens When Hormones Are Out of Balance?

Hormonal imbalances in men can happen due to stress, poor diet, lack of sleep, ageing, or medical conditions.

Common symptoms include:

• Low sex drive

• Unexplained weight gain

• Muscle loss

• Mood swings or depression

• Tiredness or lack of motivation

If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to get your hormone levels checked.

How to Check Your Hormone Levels

At Ready Health Clinic, we offer private blood tests to check key male hormone levels, including testosterone, LH, FSH, and more. Results are reviewed by our medical team, and we can offer guidance or treatment if needed.

👉 Book your male hormone test in Standish
👉 Explore our private health checks

Tips to Support Hormonal Health Naturally

Want to support your hormones? Here are a few simple lifestyle tips:

• Get enough sleep – aim for 7–9 hours

• Exercise regularly – especially strength training

• Eat healthy fats – like avocados, nuts, and oily fish

• Limit alcohol and processed foods

• Manage stress – mindfulness, nature walks, and deep breathing all help

Final Thoughts

Understanding the key male hormones gives you better control over your health. Hormones affect everything from your energy and mood to your fertility and performance.

If you're feeling “off” or just want a check-up, our team at Ready Health Clinic in Standish is here to help. It’s quick, confidential, and can give you the answers you need.

Further Reading & Resources

• NHS – Testosterone deficiency

• British Society for Sexual Medicine – Guidelines

• Harvard Health – Testosterone therapy: Potential benefits and risks