FAQs About Testosterone Replacement and Male Hormones

Have you heard about testosterone replacement as a treatment for andropause? Andropause, or male menopause, is caused by low testosterone levels in men. Testosterone levels decline in men beginning about age 27 and low testosterone levels can be unhealthy in men.

Men with andropause have many of the same symptoms as women with menopause. Andropause can cause decreased energy, decreased muscle and increased body fat, decreased sex drive, depression, irritability, decreased endurance and decreased sexual function.

Bringing testosterone levels to a healthy range can decrease or eliminate the symptoms of andropause and help men regain their sex drive, endurance and "zest" for life.

Below is a list of FAQs about declining levels of male hormones, such as testosterone, and its relation to andropause.

How Are Testosterone Levels Raised to a Healthy Level?

Testosterone is typically replaced by one of two methods. The first method of testosterone replacement is with a testosterone cream. The testosterone is easily absorbed through the skin directly into the blood stream. The second method of testosterone replacement is with an injection of testosterone. Both methods are effective and available.

When Do Testosterone Levels Start to Decline?

Testosterone levels and male hormones start to decline when men reach the age of 27 or 28. After age 30, testosterone levels drop by about 10 percent every 10 years.

Men may notice the effects of declining testosterone when they are 35, and most men over the age of 40 have low testosterone levels.

What Are the Symptoms of Andropause?

Andropause has many symptoms. The most common symptoms of andropause are below:

- decrease in energy
- Increased body fat
- Muscle loss
- Low sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Hot flashes or night sweats
- Depression
- Irritability and mood swings
- Bone loss

What is HGH?

HGH, or human growth hormone, stimulates growth and cell reproduction. HGH may be prescribed with testosterone treatment if you have low HGH levels. Low HGH levels can cause an increase in body fat and a loss of muscle mass.

What is DHEA?

DHEA is a hormone that is secreted by the adrenal gland. Males may convert DHEA to testosterone and/or estrogen in their body. Low levels of DHEA may cause depression, osteoporosis, sexual dysfunction and obesity. Your doctor may recommend that you take DHEA supplements.

What is the Normal Range for Testosterone Levels?

The normal range of testosterone is 240-1100ng/dl. However, it is suggested that men maintain a testosterone level in the upper end of the range. If your testosterone levels are below a healthy range i.e. below 700ng, consider testosterone replacement.

What is a PSA Test?

A PSA test stands for a prostate-specific antigen test. A PSA test is used to screen for prostate cancer as a safety precaution before testosterone treatment begins.

How Many Men Have Andropause?

It is estimated that 90% of men over the age of 40 have low testosterone and low levels of male hormones. However, only 5 percent of men with low testosterone levels seek treatment. If you suspect that you have andropause, and get your testosterone levels checked.

Is Hormone Therapy Safe?

Yes. Multiple studies in recent years have attested to the safety of natural hormone replacement for men. In additional testosterone and (or) HGH do not cause cancer. Prostate cancer, for example, is caused mainly by lifestyle, heredity and the tendency of the male body to increase estrogen levels as it ages.

I May have Andropause. What Steps Should I Take?

If you are experiencing the symptoms of male menopause, and get your testosterone levels checked. If you have low testosterone levels, a male hormone replacement therapy program can bring your hormones to a healthy level.