Low Testosterone Treatment FAQ's

Low Testosterone Treatment FAQ's

What Is the Best Treatment for Low Testosterone?

The best treatment for low testosterone depends on the cause and severity. Lifestyle changes may help, but testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is the most effective option for men with persistent low T and symptoms like fatigue and low libido.

Low testosterone (low T) affects millions of men and can cause fatigue, low libido, and muscle loss. This FAQ guide explains everything from diagnosis to treatment options like testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).

Low testosterone is a hormonal issue in which there is not enough testosterone. According to the American Urological Association, 2 out of every 100 men have this problem. Low testosterone is more common in older men than in younger ones. Studies show that 40% of men aged 45 and older have low testosterone or testosterone deficiency. Here are some frequently asked questions about low testosterone treatment to help you better understand it.

What Does Testosterone Do in the Male Body?

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, but it's also produced in small amounts in females. In men, the testicles produce testosterone when they get signals from the pituitary gland under the brain.

Testosterone has many vital roles in men, including:

• Maturation of the testicles and penis during adolescence
  
  
• Increasing sexual desire (libido)
  
  
• Sperm production
  
  
• Developing body and facial hair
  
  
• Increasing muscle mass and bone density
  
  
• Encouraging red blood cell production
  
  
• Affecting fat metabolism and distribution
  
  
• Influencing mental and heart health

What Are Normal Testosterone Levels in Men?

Testosterone levels in men change throughout their lives. They peak during adolescence and early adulthood, then gradually decline each year. Testosterone levels also fluctuate throughout the day, peaking in the morning and decreasing in the afternoon. Normal levels in healthy adult men range from 300 ng/dL to 1000 ng/dL. If your testosterone level is below 300 ng/dL, you may have low testosterone, also known as low T or testosterone deficiency syndrome (TD).

What Are the Symptoms of Low Testosterone (Low T)?

Low T symptoms can vary from person to person and are often subtle. Here are some common signs men with low T may experience:

• Low energy and fatigue
  
  
• Reduced sexual desire
  
  
• Difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection
  
  
• Loss of body and facial hair
  
  
• Weight gain and increased body fat
  
  
• Increase in breast tissue
  
  
• Decrease in semen production
  
  
• Loss of muscle mass
  
  
• Low bone density
  
  
• Irritability, depression, and mood swings
  
  
• Fewer red blood cells
  
  
• Smaller testicle size

How Is Low Testosterone Diagnosed?

Low T signs are often subtle, so they might not be enough to identify the issue. If you think you have low T, your doctor will check your testosterone levels with a blood test. This test is usually done in the morning when testosterone levels are highest. Your doctor may ask you to retake the test to confirm low T levels. Some medications can temporarily lower your testosterone, so it's important to tell your doctor about any medications you're taking before the test.

Is Low Testosterone a Normal Part of Ageing?

As you age, your body undergoes many changes. One change for men is a decrease in testosterone production. Research shows that testosterone levels drop by about 1% each year after age 30. This decline is not very noticeable for some men, but for others, it is more obvious. Your health and lifestyle can also affect your testosterone levels.

What Causes Low Testosterone Besides Ageing?

Not all men experience low testosterone as they get older. Some men can develop this issue even in their 20s. Many factors can cause a decline in testosterone levels, including:

• Testes injury
  
  
• Liver disease or kidney failure
  
  
• Cancer treatments
  
  
• Excessive iron in the body
  
  
• Certain medications like opioids
  
  
• Excessive alcohol consumption
  
  
• Pituitary gland problems
  
  
• Type 2 diabetes
  
  
• Brain surgery
  
  
• Sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea
  
  
• Large changes in weight, either weight loss or gain
  
  
• Excessive estrogen production

Can Testosterone Levels Be Restored Naturally?

Yes, you can increase testosterone levels in different ways. If you have low T, your doctor will first suggest making lifestyle changes and trying natural methods. Some of these methods are:

• Eat a balanced diet with carbs, proteins, and fats.
  
  
• Do high-intensity training and weight lifting to boost testosterone.
  
  
• Manage stress because daily stress can lower testosterone production.
  
  
• Increase vitamin D levels with supplements or sunbathing.
  
  
• Take all essential minerals and vitamins in the right amounts.
  
  
• Get at least 8 hours of sleep each night to optimise testosterone.
  
  
• Reduce alcohol intake and avoid estrogen-like compounds.
  
  
• If these natural methods don't work, the next best option is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).

What Is TRT (Testosterone Replacement Therapy)?

TRT is a well-known solution for men with low testosterone. This treatment involves adding testosterone to your body in different ways, like injections, patches, gels, or medications. You can choose one, or your doctor can suggest the best option. TRT can reverse the effects of low T, such as restoring energy, improving libido, regrowing body or facial hair, strengthening muscles and bones, and normalising red blood cell production.

TRT Benefits and Risks at a Glance

How Effective Is TRT for Low Testosterone?

Different men respond differently to testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). According to the American College of Physicians (ACP), most men see improvements in sexual functions like sex drive and erections after getting this treatment. However, the effects can vary from person to person. Overall, TRT is considered safe and has a high success rate. You can read more about it in our study here.

How Does Testosterone Replacement Therapy Work?

During this treatment, testosterone is added to the body through medications, gels, injections, and other methods. Once in the body, the testosterone acts like natural testosterone. It works on different body cells, recognising them as normal testosterone and carrying out the functions it instructs them to perform.

Who Should and Shouldn’t Get Testosterone Therapy?

TRT can cause the prostate to grow, which isn't good for men with early-stage prostate cancer. That's why men with prostate cancer shouldn't choose TRT. Doctors usually screen for prostate problems before starting TRT.

Other men who should avoid TRT are those with:

• Breast cancer
  
  
• Obstructive sleep apnea
  
  
• Congestive heart failure
  
  
• An enlarged prostate

What Are the Side Effects of TRT?

TRT is usually safe, but it can have some side effects. These include:

Increased red blood cells, which can cause blood clots and heart attacks if not managed properly

• Oily skin and acne
  
  
• Reduced sperm count
  
  
• Larger breasts
  
  
• Smaller testicles

Can TRT Improve Fertility and Sperm Count?

TRT is not a good treatment for men who want to improve their fertility and have children. While testosterone can boost sex drive, it doesn't increase sperm count. It lowers sperm count by reducing the production of the hormone follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which is necessary for normal sperm production.

How Often Should You Test Testosterone Levels During TRT?

Once you start TRT, you'll need to have your testosterone levels checked regularly to make sure they are normal. Doctors usually ask their patients to take a testosterone test 6 to 12 months after starting TRT.

FAQs About Low Testosterone and TRT Treatment

What are the early signs of low testosterone in men?

Fatigue, low libido, muscle loss, and mood changes are some of the earliest signs of low T in men.

Is testosterone replacement therapy safe for long-term use?

TRT is considered safe under medical supervision, with regular testing for prostate health and red blood cell count.

Can I naturally increase testosterone without medication?

Yes, through weight training, sleep, stress management, and nutrition—but severe cases may still need TRT.

How soon will I feel the effects of TRT?

Energy and mood may improve within 3–6 weeks, while body composition changes take several months.

Does TRT improve sperm production or fertility?

No. TRT lowers sperm count. Men wanting children should consider hCG or other fertility-preserving options.

How is TRT administered?

TRT can be delivered via injections, gels, patches, or tablets, depending on preference and medical advice.

Do I need follow-up tests after starting TRT?

Yes, regular follow-ups help monitor testosterone levels, prostate health, and red blood cell counts to ensure safety.

Do I Need Follow-Up Appointments While on TRT?

You need regular checkups after your first TRT session to ensure your testosterone levels are normal and the side effects are minimal compared to having low testosterone. Doctors will screen your prostate to see if it is getting bigger and do blood tests to check your red blood cell levels. Your testosterone dose may need to be adjusted based on how your body responds to the first dose.

If you have any other questions or want to know more about testosterone replacement therapy, we can help. Please don't hesitate to contact us for more information and support. We're here to assist you with all your concerns.