Are you feeling a lack of desire, arousal, or intimacy? Are you experiencing fatigue and low energy levels? If so, it may be time to consider having your testosterone levels checked.
See, testosterone plays a major role in overall wellness, motivation, and of course, libido. When you’re not feeling up to par, it could be a sign that your testosterone levels are low.
Contrary to popular belief, low testosterone isn’t just an issue for men. Women also need testosterone to feel their best. In fact, postmenopausal women often suffer from decreased testosterone levels leading to symptoms like low libido.
Luckily, there are treatments available to help. For example, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is an effective and safe way to supplement your body’s natural testosterone levels.
If you’re concerned about low libido and think your testosterone levels could be the culprit, read on. In this blog, we’ll discuss the signs you may need to get your testosterone levels checked, as well as the treatment options available.
What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone found in both men and women. It plays an important role in maintaining overall health, energy levels, and sex drive. For men, testosterone is primarily produced in the testicles, while for women, it’s produced by the ovaries and adrenal glands.
As you age, your body produces less testosterone, leading to a decrease in libido and energy levels. In men, low testosterone levels can cause erectile dysfunction, decreased beard and body hair growth, and breast tissue development. In women, low testosterone levels can cause menstrual irregularities, decreased breast size, and infertility.
What are the Signs of Low Testosterone?
Symptoms of low testosterone vary from person to person, but some common signs include the following:
- Decreased sex drive: Testosterone is a hormone that can boost sex drive in both genders. When its levels drop, sexual appetite tends to diminish as well.
- Fatigue and decreased energy: Testosterone is the powerhouse behind energy production, so when its levels start to dip below normal, it can result in feelings of lethargy and an overall lack of vigor.
- Decreased muscle mass: Testosterone is essential for constructing and sustaining muscle mass. When testosterone levels drop, the decrease in muscularity can be noticeable.
- Increased body fat: Testosterone helps to regulate fat metabolism. When levels are low, fat can accumulate more easily, particularly around the abdomen.
- Reduced bone density: With its role in sustaining bone density, a dip in testosterone counts can evoke a reduction in bone mass and, consequently, an elevated susceptibility to osteoporosis.
- Mood changes: Testosterone plays a major role in our emotional and mental state. When testosterone levels are lower than normal, it can lead to feelings of sadness, irritability, and loss of self-esteem.
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, try not to worry. Solving the problem may be as simple as getting your testosterone levels checked. There are plenty of treatment options available for those dealing with low testosterone, so don’t hesitate to reach out for help to say goodbye to low libido.
Treatment Options For Low Testosterone
With today’s medical advances, plenty of treatments are available for those dealing with low testosterone. However, the most suitable option for you may depend on the severity of your symptoms.
In mild cases, lifestyle modifications such as dietary and exercise habits can be enough to bring testosterone levels back up. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet are essential components when restoring balance to hormone production in the body.
For more severe cases, bio-identical hormone replacement therapy is an option. This treatment can help to supplement the body’s natural testosterone production, leading to increased sex drive, better energy levels, and improved overall wellness.
Let’s take a deeper dive into bio-identical hormone replacement therapy and how it is helping people restore their testosterone levels.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is a treatment option for low testosterone that uses hormones that are chemically identical to those produced by the body. BHRT aims to restore hormone levels to a more normal range and alleviate symptoms of low testosterone.
BHRT for low testosterone is typically prescribed as a cream, gel, or injection that is applied or administered directly to the skin. A healthcare provider determines the dose and frequency of treatment based on the individual’s specific needs and hormone levels.
BHRT has been suggested to have some potential benefits compared to traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which uses synthetic hormones that are not identical to those produced by the body. BHRT is believed to have fewer side effects and be more effective at treating symptoms of low testosterone.
However, the use of BHRT is not without controversy. Some side effects may be associated with its use, and it’s not recommended for all individuals. Therefore, it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits of BHRT with your healthcare provider before beginning treatment.
At Dr. Weng, we understand the importance of addressing low testosterone. That’s why we offer a variety of treatment options, from bio-identical hormone replacement therapy to lifestyle modifications, so you can get your sex drive back and regain your quality of life.
To learn more about our services or schedule an appointment, contact us at Office: 443- 315-2806 or use the “Ask” feature on our website to send a text.