How to Know if You Need Testosterone Replacement (Start With a Test)
How to Know if You Need Testosterone Replacement (Start With a Test)
What Is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone produced by the body in both men and women. Testosterone affects several functions in the body. It is primarily responsible for the development of the male sex organs. In men, testosterone assists with:
- Maturation of the sex organs
- Optimization of libido
- Growth of facial and pubic hair
- Growth of muscles and bones
- Making sperm
Why Low Testosterone Levels Matter
If you have low testosterone, you may need testosterone replacement, and you may have several symptoms that would potentially warrant beginning replacement therapy. In males, low testosterone is also known as male hypogonadism, and this occurs when the testicles do not make enough testosterone.
Low testosterone is any value less than 300 nanograms per deciliter in adults. It is crucial to have your levels checked via testing to know if your testosterone levels are normal or if they are low.
Symptoms of low testosterone can include:
- Reduced libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Loss of hair
- Loss of testicle mass
- Changes to body temperature
- Changes to sperm count
- Changes to mood or concentration
- Changes to body composition
- Decrease in strength or endurance
Symptoms of low testosterone in children can include:
- Slowed growth and development of the body and sex organs
- Changes to the voice deepening process
- Reduced strength and endurance
Could You Have Low Testosterone? Get Tested
If you are wondering if you have low testosterone, it is essential to get your levels tested to find out. A healthcare provider can guide you on the appropriate steps based on your blood levels and any symptoms you are experiencing.
There are testing options available to see where your blood levels fall. During these tests, testosterone in both of its forms can be measured. This includes measuring:
- Total testosterone: The amount of testosterone in the body that is free and attached to protein
- Free testosterone: Just measuring the testosterone that exists freely, not attached to protein
Getting your testosterone tested via a blood test is a straightforward process. A healthcare provider will collect a blood sample, which is then sent to a lab for analysis, a process that typically takes only a few minutes. There are no outsized risks associated with getting blood drawn to measure testosterone levels.
There are also at-home testosterone tests that you can complete to get your levels checked. Everlywell offers an at-home testosterone test that measures the total testosterone in your blood, also known as Total T. You can take this test from the comfort of your own home, and a medical professional will analyze the results. A qualified healthcare provider will inform you about the next steps.
Testosterone Replacement
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be needed depending on the results of your testosterone blood test. A provider will let you know if TRT would be recommended for you, based on your results and other individual factors.
TRT is an option for men who have low testosterone levels under some circumstances. TRT involves taking a form of testosterone to help increase levels and improve any symptoms experienced that are associated with low testosterone. There are different methods of TRT, including gels, injections, patches, and pellets.
As with many interventions, there can be side effects of TRT. TRT is a method that can be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider and requires monitoring. It may not be safe or advised for several people, regardless of testosterone blood levels. The decision to start TRT is individualized and needs to consider all an individual’s factors, such as health status, comorbidities, and other relevant factors.
What Are the Pros and Cons of TRT?
Some pros to TRT for some individuals can be improvement of:
- Sexual functioning
- Body composition
- Energy levels
- General sense of well-being
- Mental health
Some cons of TRT for some individuals can include:
- Acne development
- Changes to the breathing pattern during sleep
- Undesirable changes to body composition, like changes to breasts or swelling of ankles
- Increased risk of the development of other health conditions
It is also essential to enter TRT with realistic expectations about how it may improve or impact your health. Everyone responds differently, and improvements to overall health and well-being may also vary. However, many people benefit from TRT and do not experience unwanted side effects. This is why consulting your care provider and receiving personalized guidance and oversight through this process is essential.
Optimize Your Testosterone Levels Today With Everlywell
If you are wondering if you need TRT, starting with a blood test is a good first step. This will help inform you of your current levels and determine if you may be a good candidate for TRT. Take the complication and guesswork out of this process with Everlywell. Take the next step today to achieve greater clarity on how to optimize your testosterone levels, health, and overall well-being.