Testosterone. You know it’s what makes a man “manly.” It’s the first thing you think of when you hear about men getting into a physical altercation, described as too much testosterone. While it’s true that testosterone can make you more aggressive, that is not the only role it plays in your body. Testosterone plays a role in behaviors other than male dominance too.
Interestingly, at least one study has also showed that testosterone makes men more attractive to the opposite sex. Wayne State University’s researchers found that men with low testosterone levels didn’t fare nearly as well with the ladies. One of the researchers, Dr. Richard Slatcher, said this of the results:
“We found that testosterone levels influenced men’s dominance behaviors during the competitions, how much they derogated (or ‘bad-mouthed’) their competitors afterward, and how much the woman said she ‘clicked’ with them. Books, film and television often portray men who are bold and self-assured with women as being high in testosterone. Our results suggest that there is a kernel of truth to this stereotype, that naturally circulating testosterone indeed is associated with men’s behaviors when they try to woo women.”
Low testosterone, commonly referred to as low T, can cause a dramatic decrease in sexual desire, as well as semen production. It can even cause difficulty achieving an erection. If you have a partner, chances are these issues will become a major problem in your relationship, especially if you are trying to conceive. Low T can lead to male infertility when left untreated.
What Causes Low Testosterone
Low T, or hypogonadism, can be caused by many different factors. Because testosterone is a hormone, it can develop when other hormones are imbalanced. Low T often affects men with type 2 diabetes and those who are obese.
Age also plays a factor in testosterone levels. Men experience a condition called andropause as they age, similar to women’s menopause. During andropause, testosterone levels decrease by as much as 1% per year.
Low T Treatment in Phoenix
Renowned urologist Dr. Desi Avila offers many treatment options for low T based on the severity of your hormone deficiency and the cause of your condition. Dr. Avila will develop a personalized plan to treat your low T, and he will discuss other treatment methods that target the cause. For instance, if you are overweight, he will recommend weight loss options and lifestyle changes.
At Ironwood Urology, Dr. Avila offers testosterone injections in Phoenix and Gilbert to treat low T. Injections are effective for up to 10 weeks. Another method of testosterone replacement therapy we offer is TESTOPEL® testosterone pellets. For men who qualify, TESTOPEL is an implant placed under the skin, which slowly releases testosterone over the course of several months. Dr. Avila may prescribe a topical testosterone gel for daily use if your personal symptoms and cause determine this is the best method for your treatment.
Do I Have Low T?
If you suspect you have low testosterone in Phoenix, Arizona, Dr. Avila would love to help put you back into the driver’s seat of your own health. Call for an appointment with leading men’s health expert Dr. Desi Avila today at (480) 961-2323 or request an appointment online.
