TRT

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

Understanding Low Testosterone & Your Treatment Options

Testosterone plays an important role in men's sexual health, energy, body composition, and overall well-being. When testosterone levels are consistently low and symptoms are present, Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) may be an appropriate treatment option.

What is Low Testosterone?

Low testosterone, also called male hypogonadism, occurs when the body does not produce enough testosterone.

Symptoms associated with testosterone deficiency can include:

Decreased sex drive

Erectile difficulties or fewer spontaneous erections

Reduced energy

Changes in mood

Fertility problems or reduced sperm production

Because these symptoms can have many different causes, symptoms alone aren't enough to diagnose low testosterone. [endocrine.org], [endocrine.org]

What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy?

TRT replaces testosterone when your body isn't producing an adequate amount.

Treatment is intended for men who have both symptoms or signs of testosterone deficiency and consistently low testosterone levels confirmed through appropriate testing. Endocrine Society Testosterone Therapy for Hypogonadism Guideline Resources recommends confirming low testosterone with repeat morning testing and evaluating the underlying cause. [endocrine.org]

How Can TRT Help?

When testosterone deficiency has been properly diagnosed, TRT is designed to correct the testosterone deficiency and address symptoms associated with hypogonadism. The Endocrine Society patient resource on testosterone treatment states that physician-prescribed testosterone therapy can be effective for men diagnosed with consistently low testosterone production and associated symptoms. [endocrine.org]

Treatment is personal.

Testosterone therapy is available in different forms, including injections and topical gels or solutions. Your healthcare provider can discuss which option may be most appropriate for you. [endocrine.org]

Is TRT Right for Me?

The first step isn't automatically treatment. It's finding out why you're having symptoms.

A healthcare provider can evaluate your symptoms, check testosterone levels and look for possible causes of testosterone deficiency. Current clinical guidance recommends diagnosing hypogonadism only when compatible symptoms or signs occur along with consistently low testosterone measurements. [endocrine.org]

TRT is not recommended simply as an anti-aging treatment or to improve strength, athletic performance, or physical appearance. [endocrine.org]

What About Fertility?

This is an important conversation to have before starting testosterone.

The Endocrine Society Testosterone Therapy for Hypogonadism Guideline Resources recommends against starting testosterone therapy in men who are planning fertility in the near term. [endocrine.org]

Tell your provider if having children now or in the future is important to you.

Is TRT Safe?

TRT requires individualized medical evaluation and monitoring. Certain medical conditions may make testosterone treatment inappropriate, and your provider should review your medical history, goals, laboratory results, and potential risks before treatment. [endocrine.org], [endocrine.org]

Questions to Ask Your Provider

Are my symptoms related to low testosterone?

Should my testosterone level be tested?

Could another medical condition be causing my symptoms?

What are the benefits and risks of TRT for me?

How could treatment affect my fertility?

What type of treatment would be appropriate for me?

What monitoring will I need during treatment?

Lighthouse Wellness Clinic

Let's talk about how you're feeling.

Low energy, sexual changes, and other symptoms shouldn't simply be dismissed as "getting older." A thorough evaluation can help determine what's going on and whether testosterone treatment may be appropriate for you.