Testosterone deficiency is a common dysfunction in the male population that leads to several health issues.
The normal range of testosterone for humans is 800-1000. However, it is just an average and can vary from person to person. Low testosterone in men hinders their overall well-being and can also affect their psychology.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy, or TRT, is an effective way to treat low testosterone levels and boost energy in men. However, people have associated testosterone therapy with several myths that make men opt for the treatment.
Here, we will bust those myths and reveal the real facts behind testosterone therapy.
What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy?
As humans age, several of their organs and body parts do not function as smoothly as they once did. The level of testosterone also tends to reduce as you age. It leads to various health problems like low bone density and muscle mass, reduced sexual drive, emotional changes, and so on.
Testosterone replacement therapy helps boost testosterone levels in men using several methods.
The therapy comes in several forms, including skin patches, mouth patches, gels, implants, and injections. In addition, undergoing testosterone treatment helps with better physical and emotional functions.
Myths and Facts Related to Testosterone Replacement Treatment
People hesitate to take up treatment due to the several myths associated with testosterone therapy.
Below, we have discussed some of the common myths surrounding testosterone therapy that hinder men from going for it. In addition, we have also highlighted the respective scientific facts related to the treatment.
Myth #1: Baldness Is A Common Side Effect Of Testosterone Therapy
Fact: Testosterone treatment does not cause baldness directly or in every man. It depends on genetics and the fact that testosterone gets converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) due to the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, which leads to hair loss.
If the person receiving the treatment has a history of baldness in previous generations, the treatment might lead to thinning hair or baldness. However, a specialist can prevent this by including supplements to reduce the effect of DHT.
Myth #2: TRT Will Change Your Physical Appearance, And People Will Think You Are On Steroids
Fact: TRT increases muscle mass and makes you look fitter than before, but it does not result in body-building-level bulking.
Testosterone treatment uses bioidentical and bioavailable testosterone derived from plant sources that give you the same effect as naturally produced testosterone in your body.
Testosterone therapy does not use illegal substances to make one bulk up, but it is a treatment to naturally enhance the testosterone level in the body.
Myth #3: If you have TRT, you will develop prostate cancer later in life
Fact: There is no solid evidence that TRT leads to prostate cancer. However, it is always a better idea to seek the help of a specialized doctor and get yourself checked before taking up the treatment.
The specialist can do an overall check-up of your health, determine whether you are at risk, and prescribe treatment accordingly. Generally, doctors do not prescribe testosterone treatment if a person has a history of a disease related to the prostate.
Myth #4: You Cannot Get TRT As It Is Illegal
Fact: The rumor that TRT is illegal is due to the misconception that it uses steroids, which is not true. TRT does not use steroids and is therefore completely legal. Sportspersons and athletes also undergo TRT to treat several medical conditions.
Bodybuilders and weightlifters also take up the treatment to enhance their core and overall build. People with age-related issues are more likely to opt for the treatment. It is a completely legal form of naturally boosting the testosterone level.
Myth #5: TRT Is Highly Volatile And Makes You Lose Control Of Yourself
Fact: Certified doctors only let people take TRT therapy if their testosterone level is dangerously low. They make people undergo several tests to assess their overall health and determine their capacity to produce testosterone.
If the doctor finds that the person requires the therapy, s/he will carefully monitor the testosterone level and keep a balance. Hence, you don’t have to worry about getting it out of control as the doctor would not allow such a thing. The doctors maintain a certain level of testosterone in the body without letting it go overboard.
Myth #6: TRT causes testicles to shrink.
Fact: It is untrue to say that TRT causes testicles to shrink. The myth that complications related to fertility are a common part of TRT causes the testicles to shrink. However, it is a misconception.
Testosterone therapy also uses oral medications to maintain fertility levels in men. These oral medications enhance the hormones responsible for producing testosterone and sperm. Professional medical practitioners prescribe them according to the needs of the patient.
Benefits of Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Although there are several myths associated with TRT, it is a fact that the treatment has several positive aspects. First, seeking the help of a professional medical practitioner who specializes in testosterone therapy can significantly reduce the risks associated with the treatment.
So, here take a look at some of the advantages of the treatment.
- Improves muscle mass
- Enhances libido
- Better sleep
- Boosts bone health
- Increased energy levels
- Lowers body fat
- Improves mood
- Reduces bad cholesterol levels
- Enhances cognitive ability and brain function
- Decreases risk of diabetes
Who Should Not Take Up TRT?
People with certain medical conditions should not undergo testosterone treatment as it will worsen their condition and lead to severe health risks.
Before undergoing the treatment, one should get a medical screening done by a professional to understand any underlying health issues. People with the following conditions should avoid TRT.
- Prostate Cancer
- Breast Cancer
- Urinary tract problems
- Severe sleep apnea
- Heart problems
Final Thoughts
Aging is a part of the human cycle, and it brings with it several changes in the body. Seeking help at the right time can help reduce several health risks associated with low testosterone levels.
TRT improves the overall well-being of a human significantly. It is also necessary to understand therapy and the related effects by consulting a specialist. Proper screening of the body before taking the treatment is also a vital part of treatment to avoid unnecessary complications.
