Testosterone
 

Testosterone is part of a large class of hormones known as androgens. This hormone is the main sex hormone in males and it plays a key role in maintaining physical and mental health in both sexes. As levels gradually decline with age our bodies often accommodate to this slow decline. Decreased levels of testosterone lead to an increased likelihood of developing coronary artery disease, osteoporosis, depression, type II diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Testosterone supplementation has been proven safe and effective in both men and women who necessitate therapy.

Benefits of testosterone therapy include:

  • Increased lean muscle mass and strength
  • Protection against cardiovascular disease
  • Increased libido
  • Improved memory and cognitive function
  • Improved mood
  • Protection against Alzheimer’s Disease
  • Improved cardiac function and coronary blood flow
  • Decreased body fat
  • Decreased premature sagging of the skin
  • Bone strength maintenance
  • Decreased inflammation

Symptoms of decreased testosterone levels include:

  • Loss of drive, motivation, and/or competitive edge
  • Joint pain/stiffness
  • Decreased fitness level
  • Sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass and increasing levels of body fat)
  • Osteoporosis
  • Anemia, fatigue, depression, and/or irritability
  • Loss of libido and potency
  • Decreased desires, morning erections, and/or erectile tension
  • Decreased orgasm intensity and longer recovery time between orgasm
  • Weight gain
  • Decreased HDL level
  • Dry, think skin with poor elasticity
  • Thinning hair and lips

Testosterone Replacement and Prostate Cancer

There has been no clinical evidence demonstrating that the risk of prostate cancer or BPH increase with testosterone replacement therapy. There is no evidence to suggest that men with higher levels of testosterone are at a greater risk of developing prostate cancer or that treating men who have hypogonadism increases the risk.

Testosterone Replacement for Women

Many women are initially fearful at the mention of testosterone supplementation. However, once they understand that this hormone is responsible for sex drive and energy levels they change their minds. Surges of testosterone are part of the normal menstrual cycle and help to boost a sense of well being, power, and sex drive. Additionally testosterone has been shown to promote bone growth and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

During menopause levels of testosterone can drop by more than one-third.  Causes of low testosterone in women may include:

  • Menopause
  • Childbirth
  • Chemotherapy
  • Aging
  • Endometriosis
  • Depression or psychological trauma
  • Birth control pills