Testosterone is a hormone that plays a key role in the body, especially for men. It affects many aspects of health, including how boys grow into men and how men’s bodies function. One important area that testosterone impacts is sexual health and function.
In this article, we will explain what happens when testosterone levels are low and how it can affect men.
What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone produced mainly in the testicles (egg-shaped glands inside the scrotum) in men and in smaller amounts in women’s ovaries (small, oval-shaped glands in the female reproductive system).
It is responsible for developing male characteristics, such as facial hair, deeper voice, and muscle growth. It also plays a crucial role in sexual health.
What are Low Testosterone Levels?
Low testosterone levels (also called Low T) occur when the body does not produce enough of this hormone. This can happen for several reasons, including aging, injuries, or medical conditions.
When testosterone levels drop below normal, it can lead to various symptoms that affect different parts of the body.
How Do Low Testosterone Levels Affect Sexual Health?
Decreased Libido
Libido refers to sex drive. Men with low testosterone levels may not want to have sex as much. This can be frustrating and cause problems in relationships. A lower libido means not thinking about or feeling as excited about sex.
Erectile Dysfunction
Testosterone is a hormone that helps men have erections. When testosterone levels are low, it can be hard for men to get or keep an erection. This is called erectile dysfunction (ED).
ED can make it tough to have good sex, which can be upsetting for both the man and his partner.
Reduced Sperm Production
Testosterone is important for making sperm. If a man has low levels of testosterone, he may have less sperm, and it can be harder for him to father a baby. This is because when there are fewer sperm, it is harder to fertilize an egg and make a baby.
Other Effects of Low Testosterone Levels
Low testosterone levels can also impact other areas of health:
Fatigue and Low Energy
When men have low testosterone levels, they may feel very tired and not have a lot of energy. This can make things like going to work or exercising harder to do. This can also make them less excited about life in general.
Mood Changes
If a man has low testosterone levels, he might feel sadder or angrier than usual. This can also affect how he gets along with his family and friends.
Loss of Muscle Mass
Testosterone helps build muscle. When levels are low, men may notice a decrease in muscle mass and strength. This can make physical activities like lifting objects or playing sports more challenging.
Increased Body Fat
Some men with low testosterone levels gain weight and develop more body fat, especially around the belly. This change in body composition can affect self-esteem and overall health.
Decreased Bone Density
Testosterone helps keep bones strong. Low testosterone levels can lead to weaker bones, increasing the risk of fractures. Weaker bones mean a higher chance of breaking a bone from a fall or minor accident.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If someone suspects they have low testosterone levels, it is important to see a men is health doctor or a urologist. The urologist can perform a blood test to measure testosterone levels. If the levels are low, they might recommend treatments such as:
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)
This treatment involves taking testosterone through injections, patches, gels, or tablets to bring levels back to normal. TRT can help improve symptoms like low libido, fatigue, and mood changes.
Lifestyle Changes
Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep can help improve testosterone levels naturally. These changes can boost overall health and well-being.
Medications
Sometimes, doctors might prescribe medications to treat symptoms related to low testosterone levels, like erectile dysfunction. These medications can help improve sexual function and quality of life.
Treatment for Low Testosterone Levels in Phoenix, AZ
If you think your testosterone levels might be low, it is important to talk to a doctor who specializes in men’s health. They can help figure out the problem and suggest ways to treat it. With the right care, men can feel better and have a healthier life.
At Ironwood Urology in Phoenix, Arizona, Dr. Desiderio Avila, our board-certified urologist and men’s health specialist is dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs. With over 15 years of experience treating low testosterone, Dr. Avila can help improve your energy, libido, and overall well-being.
If you would like to learn more about low testosterone levels, call us today at (480) 961-2323 or schedule an appointment using our easy-to-fill form.
We look forward to serving you!
