Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a common treatment option for men with low testosterone levels and symptoms of hypogonadism, and Men's HRT is an increasingly popular option for those looking to address their symptoms. Before you start taking testosterone, it's important to understand the potential side effects of TRT. Research on the long-term safety of Men's HRT is limited, and no one can predict if you will experience any side effects. But knowing the possible reactions to treatment can help you detect them early if they occur. Most reactions are noticed within a few months of starting treatment.
If you experience any of the following side effects of testosterone replacement therapy, see your doctor: lower sperm count, benign prostate growth, increased skin oiliness and acne, male pattern baldness, mood swings, changes in breast tissue, fluid retention, erectile dysfunction, lower testosterone levels, and a decrease in free testosterone. Recent research suggests that there is a lower risk of serious side effects from TRT than previously believed. However, it's important to note that men who use long-term forms of testosterone therapy appear to have a higher risk of cardiovascular problems, such as heart attacks, strokes, and deaths from heart disease. If you have low testosterone levels and are considering TRT, the first step is to discuss your symptoms with an experienced medical provider.
All men considering testosterone replacement therapy should undergo a comprehensive prostate cancer test (a rectal exam and a PSA test) before starting this therapy. If a man with low testosterone levels is interested in future fertility, he should seek advice from a urologist who focuses on male reproduction to find alternative options. Each of these options provides adequate levels of hormone replacement; however, they all have different advantages and disadvantages. Tell your doctor about the benefits you get from TRT: increased libido, improved mood, weight loss and better concentration, as well as any side effects you notice.
It's important to remember that stopping TRT (which should only be done with the doctor's guidance) usually causes your sperm count to increase again in about a year. However, in a small percentage of men, fertility doesn't return after stopping TRT.
