Men’s Hormones: When to Start Testing and Why It Matters

Many men don’t realize that low energy, brain fog, or declining strength may not be “just getting older” — it may be a sign of changing hormone levels.

Knowing when to start testing is one of the simplest ways to protect long-term vitality and performance.

The Ideal Time to Begin Hormone Testing

A good rule of thumb: men should begin routine hormone testing at age 40.

Just as women know to begin mammograms around this age, men deserve an equally clear standard of care for their hormonal health.

Testing at 40 helps establish a baseline — a snapshot of where your testosterone and other key hormones stand when you’re still feeling healthy. Once that baseline is set, annual testing allows you to track any changes early, long before symptoms become disruptive.

Why Some Men Should Test Sooner

While 40 is an ideal starting point, certain factors can cause testosterone to decline earlier.

You may want to test sooner if you:

• Take cholesterol-lowering medications (these reduce precursor molecules needed to make testosterone).

• Are a routine cannabis user, which can impact hormone production.

• Notice changes in sexual desire, drive, or performance.

• Feel more fatigued, struggle with sleep, or experience weight gain around the midsection.

• Find it harder to build or maintain muscle, even with consistent training.

These are subtle but important signals that your hormones may be out of balance.

The Bottom Line

When in doubt, get tested.

Hormone testing gives you data — not guesswork — to guide your health decisions.

By establishing a baseline and monitoring yearly, you’ll have a powerful roadmap to protect your energy, focus, and longevity for years to come.

Next Steps

If you’re curious about your hormone levels or want to learn more about men’s hormone therapy and testosterone optimization, schedule a consultation with Dr. Gail King.

Together, we can design a personalized plan to help you feel strong, focused, and fully alive again.