Why Do Doctors Give Hormone Treatment to Men?
Hormone therapy is a popular treatment for menopausal women, and though less well-known it can be an appropriate approach to treat certain conditions in men. While women are typically treated with the female hormones estrogen and progesterone, men are usually treated with the male hormone, testosterone, but there are other hormones therapies available to males.
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Hypogonadism
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Some men suffer from hypogonadism, a condition in which the testosterone necessary for maturation and sexual development is not produced in sufficient quantities. This condition can be genetic, the result of an injury or caused by a disease. The primary treatment for hypogonadism is hormone therapy.
Testosterone Replacement
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Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be recommended by a physician to treat hypogonadism if testicular failure is determined to be the cause. TRT may restore sexual function and has the added benefit of increasing muscle strength and preventing bone loss.
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Pituitary Hormone Replacement
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Hypogonadism caused by a malfunctioning pituitary can result in fertility problems. Treatment with pituitary hormones may help restore fertility by stimulating the production of sperm.
Effects
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The effects of testosterone and pituitary hormones in boys and young men include stimulation of sexual development, including the growth of pubic hair and beard, increased muscle mass, and enlargement of the penis and testicles. Testosterone therapy can be delivered via injection, patch, topical gel or oral medication.
Considerations
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Because testosterone has positive effects in treating hypogonadism, there is conjecture that TRT can be beneficial in preventing the effects of aging in men. However, there are few well-documented studies regarding the efficacy of TRT in men who have normal levels of testosterone. Men considering TRT should consult with their physician regarding the potential benefits and risks of such therapy.
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