Did you know, low testosterone can be the reason for your sexual and mental health problems? In males, testosterone plays a significant role in many body functions including sexual and mental health. Learn about the link between testosterone and sexual and mental health issues with the help of these FAQs. You can contact us by visiting our clinic or visiting our website at https://www.urologistbrooklyn.com.
7 FAQs on testosterone and it’s linked to sexual health and mental health issues
Here are the most important FAQs that tell you how your testosterone levels impact your sexual and mental health, including:
- How is testosterone linked with sexual and mental health?
Ans. Testosterone is the main sex hormone in males and is also present in females in low quantities. In males, testosterone plays many essential functions:
- Help in the development of the bones and muscle mass.
- Help in regulating sex drive and production of sperm.
- Help in the development of Adam’s apple which deepens the voice in males.
- Help in the development of body hair and other factors related to appearance.
- It also helps in regulating mood.
That means testosterone plays an essential role in your sexual and mental health. When its levels get lower, it affects all these functions, especially your sexual and mental health functions. In men, testosterone production starts getting lowered gradually in the 30s.
- What causes low testosterone in males?
Ans. Usually, testosterone production starts declining gradually after 30. However, younger people can also have low testosterone due to hypogonadism, a condition where the testicles are not able to produce enough testosterone in the body, which can occur at any age.
Several conditions can cause hypogonadism, including:
- Testicular injury or trauma.
- Chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer treatments.
- Genetic conditions such as Klinefelter syndrome.
- Medications to relieve pain such as opiate pain relief.
- Alcohol or drug abuse.
- Pituitary gland or other hormonal disorders.
- What sexual problems do you have if you have low testosterone?
Ans. Low testosterone can cause severe sexual problems in males:
- Erectile dysfunction: To achieve or maintain erections, the testosterone hormone plays a significant role. However, low testosterone may not always be a direct cause of erectile dysfunction. Even some people with high testosterone levels can find it difficult to achieve erections, and people with low levels do the opposite. But we shouldn’t ignore the fact that the majority of cases of erectile dysfunction are because of low testosterone. As testosterone increases blood flow and stimulates the penile tissues to produce nitric oxide in the penis which starts some reactions that result in an erection. That’s why low testosterone may result in weaker erections and none at all.
- Reduction in testicle size: The low testosterone effect can be physically noticeable in the size of their testicles which get smaller (and not because of temperature difference).
- Reduction in semen production: Semen is the fluid that a male ejaculates when he reaches a climax. Testosterone is the main component in the production of semen. Low semen is the direct indication of low testosterone which leads to fertility issues.
- Lack of sex drive: As testosterone plays an essential role in male sex drive, low testosterone can cause a drastic drop in their libido. Men with low testosterone are more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety as a side effect of not being able to experience physical intimacy with their partners.
- How does low testosterone affect mental health?
Ans. Many researchers believe that testosterone is a neuroactive steroid that affects the central nervous system. This is the main reason that testosterone impacts mood. Now, low testosterone levels are linked with depression and other mental health problems and vice versa. Certain research found that men with depression tend to have low testosterone.
This means low testosterone and mental health disorders are linked. Both of them often cause similar symptoms, which is why low testosterone sometimes goes unnoticed. Common symptoms are fatigue, depression, anxiety, stress, irritability, insomnia, difficulty concentrating, etc.
The good news is evidence suggests that treating low testosterone with treatments like testosterone replacement therapy can help you manage these mental health problems and return to your normal self.
- When should you contact your doctor for low testosterone?
Ans. If you’re experiencing some of these symptoms like:
- Reduction in muscle mass and bone density
- Decreased energy levels
- Increase in body fat
- Hair loss
- Decrease libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Irritability
- Anxiety and depression
Then, you should consult your doctor. However, remember, low testosterone doesn’t always cause symptoms or overlapping symptoms with other conditions. So, the only way to learn about your testosterone levels is to take a blood test.
- What are the treatment options available for low testosterone?
Ans. To treat low testosterone, healthcare providers recommend testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). However, it’s not recommended for everyone, only if the person has several symptoms and blood test results show a deficiency.
This therapy can be delivered in several forms, including:
- Skin patches
- Gels
- Injections
- Surgically implanted pellets under the skin release a small amount of TRT.
- Tablets
Most people’s symptoms start improving within 3 to 6 weeks (about 1 and a half months) after starting TRT. This can also vary depending on your symptoms.
- Is it possible to boost testosterone levels naturally?
Ans. Yes, people can boost their testosterone levels naturally by making certain lifestyle changes, like:
- Exercise regularly.
- Eat a nutrient-rich diet that includes zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins.
- Get enough sleep, at least 7 to 8 hours daily.
- Avoid foods that are high in trans-fat and sugar.
- Avoid smoking and drink alcohol in moderation.
- Manage your stress with stress-relieving techniques.
In men’s health, the testosterone hormone plays a key role. Low testosterone can cause mental and sexual health problems. However, the good news is testosterone therapy and lifestyle changes can improve your symptoms and maintain your hormone levels.
Need help with your hormonal issues, visit our clinic in Brooklyn to get professional medical help. All your concerns will be listened to here.
So, don’t ignore the signs your health gives you. You can schedule an appointment with Doral Health and Wellness Urology Center’s best urologist in Brooklyn and inquire about your concerns. Our specialists will work with you in managing your condition. To schedule an appointment, please visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11212 or call 1-347-384-5690. You can also visit our website at https://www.urologistbrooklyn.com/.