The Pentagon recently posted clinical guidance about testosterone testing for military personnel online, but the document was taken down within less than a day. The guidance, first reported by CBS News and Reuters, outlined a new policy requiring male service members aged 30 and older to undergo testosterone level testing. According to a defense official, the document was temporarily removed to allow for updates, with a final version expected soon. As of September 3, the temporary guidance on testosterone deficiency screenings remains in place. This guidance was released less than two months after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that testosterone testing would become part of routine health assessments for military personnel. Those diagnosed with low testosterone levels would be offered hormone replacement therapy, though it is not mandatory. The policy states that active-duty troops and reservists over 30 with hypogonadism—a condition where the body doesn't produce enough testosterone—would receive follow-up screenings and treatment if needed. The department emphasized that testosterone levels are a "critical biological marker" for military readiness, affecting physical strength, bone density, aerobic fitness, mental health, and cardiovascular health. Hegseth explained in his July announcement that the new screening is not about enhancing performance artificially but about restoring and optimizing natural physical capabilities. He emphasized the importance of ensuring service members have the biological foundation needed to sustain combat readiness. While the testing is required for men 30 and older, younger men can still choose to be tested voluntarily. The guidance also includes separate screening protocols for women service members, who are not subject to routine hormonal testing. However, women over 35 are encouraged to be assessed for symptoms of hormonal imbalances and referred for further evaluation if needed. The guidance also outlines when it might be appropriate to prescribe testosterone therapy to women, as reported by Fox News. Testosterone testing is part of a broader set of initiatives by Hegseth aimed at improving the physical readiness and image of the military. These efforts align with the agenda of former President Donald Trump, who emphasized strength and fitness in the armed forces. Under Hegseth's leadership, the Department of Defense has introduced stricter grooming standards and higher physical fitness requirements. Earlier this year, he introduced a new Army Combat Field Test designed to ensure service members meet "the highest male standard." Additionally, active-duty Air Force members were required to submit their waist-to-height ratios as part of an assessment of the force's overall readiness and health.