As testosterone levels decline, whether it be due to age or another medical condition, men can observe negative symptoms along with it. Hormone replacement therapy has become more popular as a solution to declining testosterone levels. If you think this could be the treatment plan for you, ask your doctor about male hormone replacement therapy at your next visit.
Ask Your Doctor About Male Hormone Replacement
Male hormone replacement therapy can be different depending on where you are going. This makes it even more important to get your questions answered. At Chapel Hill Gynecology, we specialize in providing this treatment for men. Here, we provide seven questions to ask your doctor about male hormone replacement therapy.
What causes my testosterone levels to drop?
There is a multitude of reasons why a man’s hormone levels decline. The Mayo Clinic explains these possibilities first through an explanation of aging. After 40, a male’s testosterone levels decline on average by 1% every year. However, most men stay in the normal range even with that decline. Other outside influences, such as an injury, illness, or even alcohol abuse, can lead to a more intense reduction. Without testing, it can be challenging to pinpoint the exact cause and numbers behind a decline in testosterone. Ask your doctor about male hormone replacement as a possible solution.
How do you determine my testosterone levels?
A medical professional can determine your testosterone levels with a blood test. The Cleveland Clinic describes the possible requirement of multiple tests, as the numbers can change throughout the day. These levels tend to be the highest earlier in the morning.
What is male hormone replacement therapy?
Male hormone replacement therapy can present itself in multiple ways. The most natural and physiologic option is bio-identical hormone replacement therapy using a subcutaneous pellet. Unlike the injections, this provides 5-6 months of sustained optimal testosterone levels, which can vary significantly in the achievable levels.
What are your qualifications?
When you choose a medical professional to perform male hormone replacement therapy, it is essential to find one qualified. At Chapel Hill Gynecology, Dr. Karen Clark is a board-certified physician who specializes in hormone therapy management. After 20 years of working on this for women, Dr. Clark completed the further necessary training to do the same for men.
How do you determine my dosage of hormones?
Everyone’s body and the situation regarding male hormone replacement therapy are unique. The determination of dosage comes from the testosterone levels present in your body. After the tests are taken to see your current levels, the process will occur to see how much you need to receive during the treatment.
Are there common side effects of male hormone replacement therapy?
As is the case with any similar procedure, side effects can be expected with hormone replacement therapy. Often, this includes skin issues such as acne or outbreaks. It can also increase the risk of blood clots, worsen sleep apnea, and increase mood swings. However, the side effects are often case-by-case, as everyone responds to the hormones in their way. Ask your doctor about male hormone replacement therapy, especially if you are concerned about the possible side effects.
How do you monitor progress?
As is the case with determining your initial levels, your medical professional can do blood tests to track them as they eventually rise. This is an easy way to know if the hormone therapy positively impacts your levels after giving it a few weeks to present its change. Ask your doctor about male hormone replacement results. We can explain to you what these changes mean and provide you with any questions.
If you are struggling with low testosterone levels, ask your doctor about male hormone replacement therapy. There is no reason to be experiencing the symptoms of low testosterone with the available methods to improve it. Do you have more questions about what male hormone replacement therapy could look like in your life? Chapel Hill Gynecology is here to help. Check out our website or give us a call at (919) 960-2720.
