What is TRT (Testosterone replacement therapy) is a type of hormone therapy that replaces the testosterone produced naturally by the body.
As you get older, testosterone therapy may look promising. But there are many misconceptions about what the treatment can and cannot do for you.
Testosterone therapy may appear to be the ultimate anti-aging solution. However, the health benefits of testosterone therapy for age-related testosterone decline are unclear.
What is testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone produced mainly in the testicles. Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and the first hormone detectable in men 8 weeks after conception. In men, testosterone is responsible for testicular and prostate development, as well as muscle mass, bone density, facial hair, libido and sexual function.
Testosterone helps keep men:
- Bone density
- Fat distribution
- Strength and muscle mass
- Facial and body hair
- Production of red blood cells
- Sexual desire
- Sperm production
Why does T decrease with age?
Your body naturally produces less T as you age. According to an article in American Family Physician, the average male T production decreases by about 1-2% each year.
This is all part of a completely natural process that begins between the ages of 20 and 30:
- As you age, your testicles produce less T.
- Decreased testicular T causes the hypothalamus to produce less gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH).
- Decreased GnRH causes the pituitary gland to produce less luteinizing hormone (LH).
- The reduction in LH causes a reduction in the overall production of T.
What are the Symptoms of effects of low Testosterone?
Symptoms such as fatigue, loss of sex drive, and weight gain can be signs that you may be suffering from low testosterone levels. However, not all men experience these symptoms, and other effects may indicate low levels of this male sex hormone. If you experience any of the following effects, you may want to ask your doctor to test your testosterone levels.
The most common symptoms of low testosterone are:
- Low Libido
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Low Energy
- Increase Fat
- Osteoporosis
- Depression
- Urinary Issues
- Hot Flashes
- Night Sweats
- Cardio Issues
- Hair Loss
- Male Breast
What is TRT (Testosterone Replacement Therapy)?
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a type of hormone therapy that replaces the testosterone produced naturally by the body. Testosterone is a hormone essential for various aspects of health, such as sexual function, mood regulation, and bone density.
Many men experience symptoms of low testosterone as they age, such as fatigue, reduced sex drive, and weight gain. A low T level can also lead to serious health problems such as osteoporosis and heart disease. If you experience any of these symptoms, you may want to ask your doctor to test your testosterone levels.
How is TRT administered?
There are several ways to perform TRT. The best option will depend on your medical needs and lifestyle. Some methods require a daily dose, while others only need to be done monthly.
TRT methods include:
- Oral medications
- Intramuscular injections
- Transdermal patches
- Topical creams
Another form of testosterone replacement therapy involves applying testosterone gel to the gums twice daily.
What men can expect while undergoing testosterone replacement therapy:
Brain
- Improves mood
- Improves confidence
- Memory function
- Focus & cognition
Heart Health
- Lower Cholesterol
- Decreases Blood Pressure
Muscles
- Muscle Growth
- Increases Strength
- Increases Endurance
- Abdominal Fat Loss
Bones
- Increases Bone Density
- Red Blood Cell Production
- Healthier Ligaments / Tendons
Skin
- Hair Growth
- Collagen Growth
- Healthier Skin & Hair
- Reduces Wrinkles
Sexual Health
- Increases Sex Drive
- Endurance During Intercourse
- Increases Desire of Intimacy
- Maintain a Healthy Prostate
Do I need a prescription from my doctor to buy testosterone?
No. You do not need a doctor’s prescription to buy testosterone. You can buy testosterone over the counter or online without a prescription. However, it is important to consult a doctor before starting any treatment program.
When most people think of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), they think of men experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, such as fatigue and loss of sex drive. However, TRT is also used to treat men who have normal hormone levels but are losing them due to certain medical conditions. In this article we will discuss what TRT is, the effects of low T. and how to choose a TRT clinic.
How do I choose a TRT clinic?
When looking for a clinic, it’s important to consider your options. Look for a treatment center with trained professionals who can answer all your questions and address any concerns you may have during the process. In some cases, visiting more than one clinic may be helpful before deciding which program is best for you.
What factors should I consider when selecting a TRT clinic?
Here are three areas that should influence your decision:
- Location: Make sure the clinic is conveniently located where you live or work
- Experience: Why does this clinic have experience treating low T? What is the clinic’s success rate?
- Treatment options: What types of treatments will be available to me? Will I have access to a doctor or nurse who can answer my questions?