Men's Hormone Replacement Therapy

Although testosterone levels naturally decline with age, several physiological and lifestyle factors can cause low testosterone in men. These include: 

• Age
• Hormonal disorder 
• Obesity
• Certain medications, including glucocorticoids (corticosteroids) or opioids
• Chronic stress 
• Depression
• Alcohol and substance abuse
• Insufficient sleep and obstructive sleep apnea
• Smoking

Sometimes, testicular injury and cancer can also affect the testosterone levels in men.  

Severe testosterone deficiency may contribute to the development of several medical conditions. These may include:

• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): The difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection can be linked to low testosterone levels in men. 
• Infertility: Low levels of testosterone can impair sperm production in men’s bodies. 
• Osteoporosis: Testosterone deficiency can cause osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures. 
• Metabolic Conditions: Testosterone disorder can increase the risk of metabolic conditions, such as obesity, high blood pressure, insulin resistance, and more.

If, after the assessment of your physical and sexual symptoms, we suspect testosterone deficiency in your body, our team will conduct specific blood tests to measure the levels of testosterone in the bloodstream.   

Tests for checking testosterone levels may include the following.

• Total testosterone test measures the total amount of testosterone in your blood. It is usually the initial test conducted.
• Free testosterone test measures the amount of unattached, or free, testosterone in your blood. This test is performed if there is a need for a more detailed assessment.
• Other hormone tests, such as Luteinizing hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating hormone (FSH). LH and FSH play a role in regulating testosterone production. 

It is important to note that the testosterone levels in the body change throughout the day. Testosterone testing involves:

• Morning testosterone tests because testosterone levels tend to be highest in the early morning. 
• Repeat testing of testosterone level if the initial test results are borderline or inconclusive. Our healthcare providers may recommend repeat testing on a different day to confirm the diagnosis.

For an accurate diagnosis, you may be advised to avoid any medications that can affect your testosterone levels. Please speak to your provider about any medication you are currently taking so that testing can be conducted in a safe and efficient manner.

TRT can help in relieving numerous symptoms associated with low testosterone levels in men, particularly in maintaining optimal sexual health. There are various benefits to TRT, especially as you age and experience a natural decline in testosterone levels. 

Some benefits of TRT in men include: 

• Increased energy levels
• Improved libido and sexual function
• Improved muscle mass and strength
• Enhanced bone density
• Reduction in fat mass
• Improved memory and concentration
• Better cardiovascular health
• Improved mood and mental well-being

Testosterone can be administered using various methods into the body. Our team will choose a method based on your preference, convenience, and health considerations. 

Intramuscular Injections

Testosterone injection is the most common and cost-effective method to administer TRT. These are usually administered into your muscles (usually buttocks or thighs). 

Topical gels and patches 

Testosterone can be absorbed steadily and directly into your bloodstream through patches and gels. You can apply the patches on your skin, usually on the back, abdomen, thighs, or upper arms. 

Testosterone Pellets (Implants)

This method uses small pellets that contain testosterone. Testosterone pellets are implanted every 3 to 6 months in your hip or buttock area and provide a steady release of testosterone over a long time.