Hypogonadism

What is hypogonadism?

Hypogonadism refers to a condition in which the body does not produce enough testosterone. This occurs when the testes or ovaries do not function properly and fail to produce adequate levels of sex hormones.

The symptoms of hypogonadism can vary depending on the age of onset:

• In pre-pubertal males, symptoms include:
  
  
  • Delayed or lack of normal pubertal changes
  
  
  • Reduced muscle mass
  
  
  • Lack of facial and body hair growth
  
  


• In adolescent and adult males, symptoms include:
  
  
  • Reduced libido
  
  
  • Impotence
  
  
  • Depressed mood
  
  
  • Diminished bone density
  
  
  • Loss of muscle mass
  
  
  • Development of breast tissue
  
  

There are two primary types of hypogonadism:

1. Primary hypogonadism - where there is a problem with the testes or ovaries directly due to defects from genetic disorders (like Klinefelter syndrome) or damage from trauma, infection, or alcohol abuse.


2. Secondary hypogonadism - where there is inadequate secretion of gonadotropins (hormones that stimulate the testes and ovaries), caused by pituitary or hypothalamic dysfunction.

Hypogonadism has potentially serious health implications for both men and women. Diagnosing and treating hypogonadism properly is essential to manage symptoms, ensure healthy development and reduce long term health risks that can result from untreated low testosterone.

An endocrinologist can run blood work and imaging tests of your pituitary or testes/ovaries to diagnose the cause and severity of your hypogonadism. Treatment options may include testosterone replacement therapy, gonadotropins or GnRH pump.

If you think you may be experiencing low testosterone signs and symptoms of hypogonadism, I highly recommend making an appointment with the hormone specialists at Balance Health Clinic. They excel in accurately diagnosing hormone conditions through state of the art assessment protocols and provide personalized treatment programs targeted to your unique health situation.

I hope this overview on what hypogonadism is and the typical signs and symptoms has been helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions.