Low Testosterone in Modesto

Low testosterone, medically known as hypogonadism, happens when the body doesn’t produce enough of this vital hormone. It becomes more common as men grow older, affecting around 20% of men over 60 and rising to nearly 50% in men over 80. Although testosterone is often called the male hormone, it plays important roles in women’s health too, and women can experience low testosterone levels.

Testosterone is naturally made in the body. In men, it supports sperm production, drives sexual desire, and helps maintain muscle and bone strength. The brain’s pituitary gland regulates testosterone production, which occurs in the testicles.

Request an Appointment

Symptoms of Low Testosterone

You might notice increased body fat, enlarged breast tissue, loss of muscle mass, weaker bones, and low energy if testosterone levels drop. Sexual changes can include:

  • Reduced libido (sex drive)
  • Difficulty reaching orgasm
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Lower sperm count
  • Less seminal fluid
  • Smaller or softer testicles

Many men with low testosterone also feel sadness, irritability, or depression.

Causes of Low Testosterone

Causes of Low Testosterone

Several factors can lead to reduced testosterone levels, including:

  • Testicular injury or infections
  • Treatments for testicular cancer
  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Chronic illnesses or infections
  • Deficiencies in nutrition
  • Andropause (male menopause) linked to aging

Certain medications and inherited conditions may also lower testosterone. Men with high blood pressure, obesity, or elevated cholesterol often experience low testosterone as well.

Request an Appointment

Diagnosis of Low Testosterone

Your trusted doctor will start with a physical exam and symptom review. Measuring testosterone involves a blood test, but your doctor may also order:

  • Urinalysis
  • Sperm analysis
  • PSA test to check prostate health
  • Hematocrit test to monitor red blood cell levels

The hematocrit is important because testosterone therapy can increase red blood cells.

Complications of Low Testosterone

Beyond affecting your quality of life and relationships, low testosterone can contribute to conditions like diabetes, osteoporosis, and heart disease.

Treatment of Low Testosterone

Treatment focuses on replacing testosterone through various methods such as:

  • Skin gels, creams, or patches
  • Injections
  • Small pellets placed under the skin
  • Oral inserts (under the tongue or inside the cheek)

These therapies help restore normal levels and ease symptoms. Testosterone replacement usually requires lifelong management with careful monitoring.

Risks of Testosterone Treatment

Testosterone treatment can increase risks like prostate enlargement and urinary symptoms. Those with kidney, liver, or heart issues may face fluid retention. It can worsen sleep apnea and may impact fertility over time. Men treated for prostate or breast cancer are typically not recommended for testosterone therapy.

Low Testosterone in Women

Though often called a male hormone, testosterone is essential for women’s health too. It can be prescribed off-label to ease menopause symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Many women post-menopause find benefits such as:

  • Improved mental clarity
  • Balanced mood
  • Less fatigue
  • Stronger bones
  • Reduced body fat
  • Renewed libido

Testosterone therapy has not been FDA-approved for women and is usually not covered by insurance, but research shows it does not increase cancer risk and may protect against Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.