Men’s Health Month 2020: Myths And Facts About Testosterone Replacement Therapy

What Is Testosterone?

Testosterone is a male hormone that gives male their deep voices, facial and body hair, muscles and other male characteristics that distinguish them from a female. The hormone plays a vital role in sperm production, increased libido and normal erectile function. Testosterone also helps boost mood, improves red blood cell productions and helps with cognition.

Why Low Testosterone Is A Concern?

Low testosterone (Low T), also known as Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome (TD) or hypogonadism is a condition characterised by reduced production of testosterone. A study says that around 25 per cent of men face Low T issues.

Low T is common in men who have existing conditions such as diabetes, asthma, hypertension, prostate disease, obesity, metabolic syndrome or respiratory diseases. According to a Harvard expert named Abraham Morgentaler (MD), the levels of testosterone declines by 1 per cent every year after 40 years. This makes the condition more common in older adults. However, there are several studies which say that the condition can also affect young adults (below 30). [1]

Symptoms Of Low Testosterone

When T gets low, many symptoms arise in men such as the following: [2]

• Loss of libido (low sexual desire)
• Depression
• Loss of muscles
• Loss of facial and pubic hair
• Irritation
• Erectile dysfunction (fewer or weaker erection)
• Delayed ejaculation
• More body fat
• Growth of breast tissues
• Mood changes
• Insomnia
• Unexplained fatigue
• Low iron
• Bone loss (osteopenia)

Why Testosterone Replacement Therapy Is Important?

In the year 1972, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration first approved the TRT. It was prescribed for men to improve their quality of life. In a study based on clinical trials, TRT has shown an increase in the body mass of men, reduction in cholesterol levels and overall, an improvement in the quality of life. [3]

TRT is important as it helps solve sexual problems in men and other psychological issues such as mood changes which are affecting their daily lives.

Myths And Facts About Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Myth #1: Low levels of testosterone isn't a big deal.

Fact: Low T levels is a big deal as it is not only related to sexual health, but also to overall health. Prolonged untreated Low T levels can increase the risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, depression and lung diseases.

Myth #2: Testosterone levels indicate how masculine you are.

Fact: Though testosterone is associated with masculinity, its low levels do not mean that you are not masculine. Low T is a hormonal problem, not a chromosomal problem. While the prior can be corrected by TRT or lifestyle changes, the latter is developed from birth and is not a medical condition that needs treatment. [4]

Myth #3: TRT increases the risk of prostate cancer.

Fact: The risk of prostate cancer after TRT is not supported by scientific evidence. If some clinical trials or blind study mentions about their connection, only TRT might not be the reason for the same. [5]

Myth #4: Anyone can go for a TRT.

Fact: Testosterone Replacement Therapy or TRT is not for everyone. It is for those men who show the aforementioned symptoms followed by certain blood tests to analyse their testosterone levels. If the results are confirmed, they are then recommended for TRT.

Myth #5: Low T is a birth defect

Fact: No, testosterone deficiency is not a birth defect but a person's poor lifestyle choices can cause them the condition. For example, smoking or consumption of tobacco for a prolonged period can cause a reduction in the sperm count and lead to Low T levels. However, the study needs more scientific evidence. [6]

Myth #6: Testosterone supplements increase sperm count.

Fact: Many men have a misconception that more testosterone means more sperm count. But that's not true. Actually, these supplements cause infertility in men. The pituitary gland releases the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) which in turn, release testosterone. Altogether, they contribute to sperm production.

When T supplements are taken, the pituitary gland thinks that FSH and LH are already secreted in high amount and thus, stops their production. Though a person will experience a proper erection after having supplements, their sperm count will be low in the semen produced. TRT is considered a better option as it is recommended only after evaluating every circumstance.

Myth #7: TRT can increase the risk of urinary retention.

Fact: In a study conducted on 120 men with hypogonadism for 10 years, it was found that TRT is actually linked to a lower risk of urinary tract symptoms. [7]

To Conclude

When the testosterone deficiency symptoms become bothersome, one must consult a medical expert soon. Avoid going for market-based viagra or medications that promise to boost masculinity. It is better to go for a blood test to check your testosterone levels. You can also consider doing sperm analysis to check your sperm count, no matter you have Low T levels. This is because people with average or low T levels can also have appropriate sperm count.

If you are in a TRT, follow the doctor's advice properly. Also, consult a doctor if you notice any risky symptoms like chest pain or weakness.