diagnosis guide
If you’ve just received a medical diagnosis, or you’re concerned that something in your present or past health history might be jeopardizing your fertility, check here for quick info on common medical conditions and how they can affect conception and pregnancy.
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Testosterone (Low)
What It Is
Testosterone is the most important male sex hormone. It helps in sperm production and keeps men interested in sex. Low testosterone impairs a man’s fertility and sex drive.
Who Gets It
Millions of men have low testosterone. It can be caused by aging (testosterone production normally decreases after age 50), injury, too much body fat, hormonal or genetic disorders, treatment for testicular cancer, and chronic diseases such as diabetes and liver and kidney disease. Certain medications, such as some diuretics used to treat high blood pressure, can also decrease testosterone production.
Symptoms
Symptoms include low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and low sperm count. Some men with low testosterone experience hot flashes, increased irritability, depression, and inability to concentrate. In severe cases, they may lose muscle mass and body hair, and their bones are prone to fracture.
How It's Diagnosed/Detected
Low testosterone is easily detected by a blood test. A doctor will likely perform a physical examination and order additional tests to try to determine the underlying cause. In some cases, no cause is found.
How It Affects Fertility (And Pregnancy)
The effects of low testosterone – low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, low sperm count – all impair a man’s ability to father a child.
Treatment
Low testosterone is treatable with hormone replacement therapy, available as injections, patches, gels, and tablets that are placed between the gum and the upper lip.
Pregnancy Prognosis
With hormone replacement, a man’s sex drive and ability to function sexually should return.
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