Whether due to aging or a medical condition, most men will start to show signs of testosterone deficiency. Since testosterone is such a vital component in the body, there are ways to replace this hormone to combat any deficiencies, thereby ensuring optimal health and an improved quality of life.
Hormone replacement therapy for men is one approach to enhancing your overall well-being and increasing testosterone levels.
What Is Hormone Replacement Therapy for Men?
Testosterone is responsible for various bodily functions and overall energy levels, so it’s essential that your body is producing enough. Low testosterone levels can cause a loss of muscle mass, increased body fat, cognitive impairment, mood changes, sexual issues, and more.
Hormone replacement therapy for men can increase testosterone levels for those whose bodies aren’t producing enough naturally. Testosterone can be administered into the body in different ways, ranging from injections, pellets, creams, or oral tablets, with each method having advantages and disadvantages.
At Mirabile M.D., we use SottoPelle, a hormone replacement pellet therapy method that allows the body to control the release of hormones. A hormone pellet is gently inserted under the skin, often in the hip. Once inserted, the tiny implant delivers a continuous low dose of natural hormone directly into the bloodstream. On average, men typically require re-insertion every six months or so.
Common Myths Surrounding Men’s Hormone Therapy
There are several myths surrounding hormone therapy for men, many of which stem from a lack of understanding. Misconceptions about testosterone affecting a male’s masculinity, aggression, overall health, and sexuality are common topics that often deter men from using hormone therapy.
Below are some common myths that many believe about men’s hormone therapy but are, in fact, not true.
Myth #1: Hormone Therapy Is Only for Women
While hormone therapy is often associated with menopause in women, it can also be of great use to men, especially for those who are looking to increase testosterone levels. Andropause, sometimes known as the “male menopause”, is a normal part of aging and signifies the gradual decrease of natural testosterone production over time. Hypogonadism is the condition where a man has low testosterone levels due to certain medical conditions or damage to the testicles.
Myth #2: Hormone Therapy Is Only for Aging Men
While testosterone levels naturally decline with age, this doesn’t mean that hormone therapy is reserved only for aging individuals. Hormone therapy can be used for men of various ages for a range of reasons.
Myth #3: Hormone Therapy Is Risky
Hormone treatments for men are safe and involve little risk when used under the authority of an experienced hormone therapy provider. You’ll be regularly monitored for any side effects or complications and measured for hormone levels to ensure a smooth hormone replacement.
Hormone Therapy Side Effects
Similar to any treatment, hormone therapy can have potential side effects; however, not all men will experience them. It’s important to seek an experienced medical provider to ensure side effects are properly monitored and managed. Some potential side effects of men’s hormone therapy may include:
- Acne: Testosterone therapy can sometimes lead to an increase in acne, especially in those who are prone to breakouts.
- Fluid Retention: Some men may experience fluid retention, leading to swelling or bloating.
- Breast Enlargement: Hormone therapy can cause an imbalance in estrogen and testosterone levels, leading to breast tissue enlargement in some men.
- Sleep Apnea: Hormone therapy may worsen sleep apnea or other sleep-related breathing disorders in susceptible individuals.
- Mood Changes: Changes in hormone levels can impact mood and emotional well-being. Some men may experience mood swings or irritability.
- Hair Loss: Testosterone therapy can sometimes accelerate male pattern baldness or lead to hair thinning, especially in those with a genetic predisposition to hair loss.
Benefits of Hormone Therapy for Men
Men’s hormone therapy can offer many benefits for those with low testosterone or other hormone-related conditions. These benefits can help one’s overall well-being and can even improve their quality of life.
Contributes to Overall Well-Being
Hormone therapy for men can help increase muscle mass and improve bone density, leading to better overall physical health and reduced risk of conditions such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.
Due to testosterone influencing mood regulation and cognitive function in men, hormone therapy can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as improve cognitive abilities like memory, concentration, and mental clarity.
Testosterone also plays a role in regulating fat metabolism and muscle mass in men. Therefore, hormone therapy can help decrease body fat and increase lean muscle mass, leading to improvements in one’s body composition and overall appearance.
Improves Quality of Life
Hormone therapy for men helps to rejuvenate many aspects of life that might’ve seemed dull before. Besides improving one’s physical appearance and health, hormone treatment can enhance sexual desire, arousal, and performance, leading to greater intimacy in relationships.
Increased mental stability, memory, and concentration can help improve work ethic and performance in one’s career. Additionally, many men may find it easier to exercise and stay active, especially as they age.
Overall, men’s hormone therapy can contribute to improved physical, emotional, and mental well-being. If you’re considering hormone therapy, contact the professionals at Mirabile M.D.
