If you think only women use Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) to alleviate symptoms of the menopause, think again. Many men today use HRT as an aid to boost testosterone levels and subsequently lead happier lifestyles, free of the adverse symptoms that tend to come with low testosterone levels.
However, some are still are not entirely convinced, or even aware, of the benefits associated with HRT use in men. Here, we’ll explore the issue.
HRT and its use by men
According to an article published by Harvard Medical School, millions of men use a form of HRT (which is most commonly referred to as TRT or testosterone replacement therapy). TRT is used to boost reduced testosterone levels and it is argued to help make sufferers of low testosterone levels feel more energetic, alert and sexually capable.
While women have been taking HRT for many years to combat menopausal symptoms, such as hot flushes and mood swings, the benefits behind HRT for men are typically less well known.
Advantages of HRT for men
HRT for men delivers a boost in the male hormone ‘testosterone’ and it is generally administered and used to reduce symptoms including: sexual issues, low self-confidence, lack of motivation, low moods, poor sleeping patterns, calcium decline in the bones, reduced muscle mass, lethargy, and low red blood cell levels. HRT can be taken either as an intramuscular injection, testosterone patch or testosterone gel.
However, you might be wondering exactly what the benefits of TRT specifically for men really are. Firstly, although a reduction in testosterone for men is often merely a by-product of getting older, there are times when the condition is more serious and not a simple part of life. Hypogonadism is when the body can’t produce enough testosterone to ensure a healthy lifestyle. This is because of problems with the testicles or pituitary gland in the sufferer. Consequently, HRT for men helps to combat this debilitating issue, helping the patient to lead a better quality of life free from the symptoms of low testosterone.
Another benefit of HRT for men who do not suffer from hypogonadism is the potential boost in physical fitness. According to medical research, not having enough testosterone can reduce bone strength, red blood cell counts and muscle mass. This is not only harmful from a purely physical point of view, but it may also leave a man feeling weaker, tired and less confident. By using HRT, a male sufferer should begin to feel fitter, stronger and more able, not only enhancing his physical wellbeing but also his self-assurance.
Similarly, some men can feel restless and even depressed due to low levels of testosterone. In fact, The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism details a study that suggests that men suffering from low levels of the hormone have a higher likelihood of depressive symptoms. TRT is also used to improve low mood levels in men, which means that another advantage could be better mental health and a greater capacity to deal with their professional and personal lives.
Delving deeper into the emotional side of low testosterone, another benefit of HRT in men is the possible enhancement of his sex drive. Low libido can have deep, negative emotional effects on a man and his partner. However, TRT may be able to boost a man’s ability and desire to engage in this side of his life, thereby leading to a happier and healthier relationship.
Seemingly, there are several benefits of using HRT for men. However, make sure you speak with a medical professional before starting new TRT medication.
