What You Need to Know About HRT for Men
What You Need to Know About HRT for Men
Low sex hormones are a common side effect of old age in both men and women. Typically, the age of 50 is when men and women start to experience menopause and andropause, respectively. This milestone is often referred to as the “change of life.” Many people who reach this age experience mood swings and a rapid decline in energy levels. Along with the decrease in sex hormones and vitality comes a higher risk of diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome and other ailments. These risks may be higher because of other factors. Although hormone replacement therapy for men is often prescribed to help individuals deal with the effects of low sex hormones, it can also help to lower the risk of diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and other metabolic diseases in men.
HRT Is Very Effective for Men
It is a common misconception that HRT is only for women who are going through menopause. However, it is also a form of treatment for men who are experiencing a decline in their testosterone levels. Testosterone is a vital hormone for normal muscle growth, sexual function and bone density in men. Men who suffer from hypogonadism (a dysfunction of the testicles that makes it hard for them to produce the right amount of testosterone in the body) may experience a faster decline in the sex hormone than men who have a lack of it due to old age.
Men who have low testosterone levels often experience lower sex drives. This can make it hard for them to enjoy intimacy with their partners and feel confident about themselves. This can lead to feelings of resentment and other negative feelings that can change the dynamics of an otherwise healthy relationship. To combat the physical changes they are going through, many men resort to using supplements as a way to replace the missing testosterone in their bodies. Although some supplements may have a slight effect, many males find that hormone replacement therapy provides them with a higher level of results and allows them to feel closer to their original selves before the effects of low testosterone.
How HRT Is Given
Hormone replacement therapy for men can be administered three ways. Injections are given to a specific muscular region every two to three weeks. Patches can be worn daily to provide a steady dose of testosterone. Gels and topical creams can be rubbed into certain areas on the body to boost low testosterone.
The treatment is not recommended for anyone who has prostate cancer or is at risk of developing the condition. Prostate cancer and prostate growth both respond to the presence of testosterone. Higher testosterone levels can speed up the growth of any existing tumors and may cause the prostate area to become larger than normal. One lesser known reason why it is recommended for men to consider HRT is the risk of death. Men who have declining testosterone levels also have a higher chance of dying. Anyone who is interested in receiving hormone replacement therapy for men should have their health carefully examined by their physician.
