Testosterone is one of the most important hormones that regulates the work of the male body. At a young age its excess is blamed for aggressive behaviour, at an older age men suffer from too low a level of it. The ageing process in men is called andropause, and it concerns the period when men's reproductive organs slow down significantly. This state is accompanied by other numerous changes in the body. Testosterone therapy is one of the solutions for a man entering the state of andropause. However, it should be remembered that an ageing organism is not the only indication for hormonal treatment. So, who is testosterone therapy for?

Testosterone therapy - where should I start?

Testosterone therapy is recommended especially for older men who notice such changes as: reduced sexual drive, reduced mood and feeling of less strength, lack of willingness to act, deterioration of sleep quality (and even insomnia), loss of concentration, memory deterioration, and also a decrease in muscle mass. So if you notice that you have become more irritable in a short period of time, have less willingness to live and less strength, start by seeing a doctor. It is not worth to start treatment on your own.

In the case of testosterone replacement therapy, it is extremely important to examine the level of this hormone in the body, as well as to check at what level there are other hormone levels, such as prolactin or estrogen. A shortage of hormones or any other hormone imbalance may cause changes in mood and mood. Too low a level of testosterone may cause mood weakness, but the same applies to low levels of estrogen or prolactin. Therefore, before you start taking preparations, your doctor needs to know exactly what your hormone balance is so that he or she can choose the right treatment.

Testosterone therapy - for whom are contraindications?

It is also worth remembering that like any other hormone, testosterone can also cause damage to our health. This is, among other things, how important it is to have a detailed medical history and to conduct comprehensive laboratory tests before starting hormone replacement therapy. One of the main contraindications is prostate cancer. Testosterone supplementation may increase cancer aggressiveness. This aspect should also be taken into account by men who are at risk of this cancer, i.e. those who have had family history.

Other contraindications for external testosterone administration include adenoma, severe organic diseases, difficult urine outflow, chronic lung disease and sleep apnea syndrome. The method of administration, as well as the hormone doses, should be adjusted individually. It is possible to take tablets, use a concentrated gel or use patches from which hormones are released directly into the body tissues, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract.