Key Summary
- More people are choosing Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) nowadays.
- Testosterone plays a key role in women as well as it does in men.
- While TRT benefits some, it is not pragmatic for everyone.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is gaining popularity and according to Care Quality Commission (CQC), there has been a 135 per cent spike in prescriptions between 2021 and 2024.
Many celebrities, including Kate Winslet and Robbie Williams, have undergone this therapy to regain their vigour in the middle age, states SAGA.
Testosterone, commonly known as the male hormone, is also active in the female body.
The hormone plays a vital role in muscle growth, bone health, mood, developing sexual behaviours, etc., states the Harvard Health Publishing.
Testosterone in Men
It helps in the development of the male reproductive organs.
It deepens the male voice during puberty, and helps in the growth of facial and pubic hair.
Testosterone encourages muscle growth and strength, bone growth and strength, sex drive and sperm production among males.
Testosterone for females
However, women’s hormone specialist Dr Louise Newson told the magazine that testosterone is an important hormone for women as well.
It impacts muscle, bone and cardiovascular health of women.
It also influences serotonin and dopamine levels in women’s body which affects their brain health, mood and energy levels.
However, the testosterone level drops in people by the time they enter their 40s, menopausal time for women.
The National Institute of Care Excellence (NICE) states that testosterone should only be considered for women following a trial of HRT (oestrogen and progesterone), and after all other potential contributors to a lowered sex drive have been excluded.
Causes of low testosterone levels
Apart from ageing, improper sleeping habits, constantly consuming unhealthy food, undergoing high stress and lack of exercise lead to testosterone fluctuations in the body.
Symptoms of low testosterone
A decline in libido, low energy, low mood, anxiety, brain fog, difficulty to focus, and it etc. are some of the common signs of dip in testosterone levels in both men and women.
Those affected will also experience poor sleep and muscle health, joint pains, migraines, etc. as well.
However, the drop in men are steady whereas women experience it suddenly along with menopause, which makes them easily irritated.
The right to time take help
When someone experiences these symptoms as they age, they must consult a GP or hormone specialist.
The health professional recommends for a blood test before treatment, a thorough discussion following that with them will give the individual better clarity.
The blood test and treatment recommended after that will help people maintain their testosterone levels normally.
Sadly, many women experience unsatisfactory medical support regarding testosterone concerns, in that case, they must consult another doctor instead of ignoring the concern.
Advantages of taking TRT
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is said to improve libido in women and manage erectile dysfunction in men.
Due to its osteogenic nature, TRT improves bone density, muscle mass and gives better strength to people, especially women experiencing menopause.
It also boosts the mood and energy by improving the dopamine activity in the body.
It is also proven that testosterone reduces heart health and diabetes risks to an extent, ensuring long-term wellness.
Disadvantages of taking TRT
TRT should only be suggested to patients after assessing their potential cancer risks, as the treatment can stimulate existing cancer cells.
Increase in hormones can also cause blood clots due to the spike in red blood cells (polycythaemia).
It is dangerous for men suffering from severe sleep apnoea as it can negatively impact their breathing regulation.
Ironically, the treatment also shows a great potential in causing cardiovascular risks, making it unfit for people who has had heart attack or stroke.
With these risks considered, TRT is not suitable for older adults as these risks grow with the age.
