Testosterone

The male sex hormone testosterone affects various bodily functions, including muscle mass, hair growth, and sexual performance. So, if your testosterone levels are out of balance, it can affect your health and quality of life. At Adonis Men's Sexual Health Center in West Los Angeles and Redondo Beach, California, men’s sexual health physician Faisal Ahmed, MD, specializes in treating testosterone imbalances, including low testosterone. Call the nearest office to schedule testosterone imbalance treatment, or book your appointment online today. 

Are reduced testosterone levels something to worry about?

Reduced testosterone levels are part of the normal aging process for people assigned male at birth. After 30, a man’s testosterone production naturally declines by about 1% each year. For some people, this hormone decline doesn’t cause problems. But for others, it triggers a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, and erectile dysfunction.

When should I see a doctor about a testosterone imbalance?

Make an appointment at Adonis Men’s Sexual Health Center if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Reduced sex drive
• Loss of underarm or pubic hair
• Shrinking testicles
• Hot flashes
• Increased body fat
• Decreased endurance
• Difficulties with concentration and memory

Low testosterone increases the risk of behavioral issues. For example, you might feel depressed or anxious. 

How is a testosterone imbalance diagnosed?

Your Adonis Men’s Sexual Health Center provider asks about your lifestyle, including whether you smoke, drink alcohol, or take prescription medication. They also ask about your symptoms, including when they first started and if they’re worse at certain times, like when you’re stressed out.

Your provider completes a physical exam and orders several lab tests, including:

Total testosterone level blood test

This test measures the testosterone levels in your blood. It typically requires two sample collections in the morning, when your testosterone levels are highest. Let your provider know if you’ve been sick, as certain illnesses can affect your results. 

Prolactin blood test

This test measures the prolactin levels in your blood. Higher than average levels indicate a tumor or a problem with your pituitary gland.

Luteinizing hormone (LH) blood test

This test measures the amount of LH in your blood. It helps your provider determine if your testosterone imbalance is due to a pituitary gland problem. 

How is a testosterone imbalance treated?

Adonis Men’s Sexual Health Center treats testosterone imbalances using a conservative, minimally invasive approach. They might suggest:

• Testosterone skin gel
• Intramuscular testosterone injections
• Testosterone patches
• Implantable testosterone pellets
• Buccal testosterone tablets
• Oral testosterone
• Testosterone nasal gel

You might benefit from more than one treatment, depending on the severity of your testosterone imbalance. 

Is testosterone treatment safe?

Testosterone treatment is safe and usually well-tolerated, but it takes several weeks for your body to adjust. As a result, you might have mild side effects, like acne, bloating, or difficulty peeing. 

Call Adonis Men’s Sexual Health Center to schedule testosterone treatment, or book your visit online today.