What is andropause?
As men age, their bodies naturally produce less and less testosterone. This is known as andropause. While this is normal, it can produce unwanted side effects. As many as 25 million American men between the ages of 40 and 55 may be feeling the effects of low testosterone.
What many do not know, however, is that hormone replacement therapy can greatly reduce or eliminate these unwanted side effects, restoring health and vigor.
What is hormone replacement therapy?
Hormone replacement therapy is a treatment that boosts levels of the male sex hormone testosterone if your body isn’t making enough naturally. There are many different methods of hormone replacement therapy, and the team at Rehab Wellness will work with you to select the right one for you.
What are the symptoms of low testosterone?
Low testosterone can affect your sex drive, so you might experience a reduction or loss of interest in sex and performance problems like erectile dysfunction. Other symptoms of falling testosterone levels include:
- Loss of muscle mass
- Chronic fatigue
- Hair loss
- Problems concentrating
- Depression
- Irritability
- General malaise
There are other reasons why you might have these symptoms, so Dr. Babcock might need to run tests to confirm the cause before prescribing hormone replacement therapy.
What types of hormone replacement therapy are there?
If you need to take hormone replacement therapy, you have several options:
Transdermal testosterone replacement therapy
Transdermal testosterone replacement therapy uses a testosterone-containing skin patch that you stick to yourself each day. Your body absorbs the testosterone directly into your skin.
Gel-based testosterone replacement therapy
With several gel-based options, including nasal gels, pump applicators, and individual packets, your skin absorbs the gel into your body much the same as the patch.
Testosterone replacement therapy injections and implants
There are several implantable or injectable testosterone replacement therapy options available. Some cause a slow release of testosterone, and some are long-acting testosterone. In addition, human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) injections are used to stimulate the production of testosterone. Absorption or injection of testosterone is usually safer than the oral method.
Dr. Babcock helps you choose the most suitable method of taking hormone replacement therapy and monitors your health carefully with regular checkups.
What are the benefits of testosterone replacement therapy?
Testosterone replacement therapy can have many benefits, including:
- Increased sex drive
- Better erections
- Improved energy levels
- Increased bone density
- Increased muscle mass
- Improved mood
If you think your testosterone levels are low and causing you distress, call Rehab Wellness today or book an appointment online.
