What role does testosterone play in the body?
Testosterone is a sex hormone that plays a vital role in the maturation of the male body, especially during puberty. The hormone is involved in the development of the male sex organs, sperm, and secondary traits such as the deepening of the voice and the appearance of body hair.
Additionally, testosterone influences the following:
- Libido
- Muscle and bone development
- Mood regulation
- Sperm count
Too little and too much testosterone can cause problematic symptoms, so it’s important to have your levels checked and treated if you suspect abnormalities.
What happens if I have low testosterone?
An estimated third of men over 45 have decreased testosterone levels as hormone levels tend to drop each year after age 30. Although less testosterone doesn’t always cause notable side effects, it may impact your body, mood, or sex drive.
Symptoms that are common for men with low testosterone include:
- Decreased libido
- Depression
- Loss of body hair
- Decreased muscle or bone mass
- Infertility
- Irritability
- Low energy and weakness
Low testosterone also appears to be associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease risk. Many of these symptoms and risk factors improve with treatment to replace the lost testosterone.
What is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy?
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) involves delivering replacement hormones to the body to restore optimal levels. The hormones used are bioidentical, meaning they contain the exact molecular structure as the body’s own hormones, so the body treats them as such.
The hormone specialists at Optimized Wellness use the BioTE® pellet system to deliver the bioidentical hormones as a natural alternative to testosterone injections. The pellets are implanted under the skin and release a steady flow of hormones to the bloodstream for up to six months.
As your hormone levels gradually even out, you may notice a return of your youthful vigor. The natural treatment alleviates some of your most distressing symptoms and improves your quality of life in the process.
If you suspect you might have low testosterone, make an appointment with Jordan bernard, ARNP, at Optimized Wellness by calling the office or using the online booking tool.
