Testosterone replacement therapy is a medical method of increasing testosterone levels in men. It can be given as a pill, patch, or injection. It can take a few years before the full effect of the treatment is felt. Side effects of the treatment include acne, oily skin, and loss of menstrual periods. Some patients also experience hair growth and increased muscle mass. Patients will need to visit the doctor regularly for checkups, doctors and information on pricing is available here may also recommend cervical screening.
Reversible effects of testosterone replacement therapy
Some transgender men may experience a recurrence of bleeding while on testosterone treatment. This may be caused by an imbalance in the uterine lining that can lead to a precancerous condition. This can be prevented by using birth control. This contraception can be in the form of birth control pills or an emergency contraceptive method.
Another side effect of testosterone therapy is an increase in body fat. The change in body composition can make a person look more masculine, increase muscle mass, and change menstruation. However, these effects are generally temporary. It is important to consult with your physician prior to starting this therapy.
A small amount of acne will be caused by testosterone therapy, but most cases are manageable and respond to over-the-counter treatments. More severe cases may require prescription medication. Acne usually peaks within the first year of treatment. Some people may experience mood swings and worsening of mental health conditions.
Side effects of testosterone injections
When using testosterone injections as part of a testosterone replacement therapy regimen, men must be aware of the potential side effects. The side effects of testosterone injections will vary based on the type of testosterone used. Some types of testosterone have more side effects than others. A common concern is heart disease, but there are other risks to be aware of.
Prolonged erections lasting 4 hours or longer can be unpleasant and should be treated right away. Using testosterone injections can also lead to lower sperm production, which reduces male fertility. However, there are a number of medications available that can treat the problem. One option is hCG, which can increase fertility and preserve a healthy testosterone level.
Another side effect of testosterone injections is pulmonary oil microembolism (POME). This is a dangerous blood clot in the lungs and can lead to death. Symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and the urge to cough. Additionally, women should not use testosterone if they are pregnant or nursing.
Side effects of testosterone therapy in older men
One recent study involving the use of testosterone gel in older men found that the risk of heart attack was doubled for men 65 and older 90 days after starting testosterone therapy. This side effect was not limited to older men, however; men younger than 65 with heart disease experienced a two to threefold increase in heart attack risk.
In this study, men were randomized to receive either testosterone gel packets or placebo gel packets. Both groups showed modest improvements in erectile function, sexual desire, and moodiness. The study also showed no differences in IPSS between the groups. In addition, seven men in the testosterone group experienced an increase in hemoglobin levels, while none in the placebo group showed any change.
While these findings are encouraging, side effects are still a concern. As men age, their serum testosterone levels naturally decrease. Although testosterone replacement therapy is an effective treatment for men who are hypoandrogenic, its long-term safety is unknown. Therefore, regular checkups with a health care provider are important. This is to ensure that the therapy is providing the desired benefit and to monitor any side effects.
Does testosterone replacement therapy cause gender dysphoria
When a man undergoes testosterone replacement therapy, he is not only changing his sex identity, but also his gender identity. This hormone replacement treatment helps men achieve a more male-like appearance by suppressing unwanted hormones. This treatment may even help prevent secondary sex characteristics from forming. It works by suppressing menstrual cycles and decreasing estrogen production from the ovaries. These changes may be temporary, or they may require surgery.
The best way to learn about testosterone and gender identity is to consult with a doctor or healthcare provider. Fortunately, there are several LGBTQ healthcare providers available in the United States. The WPATH directory can help you find a provider in your area. Another option is to use a service like Plume, a telehealth service that connects patients with transgender doctors. The service enables patients to consult with a provider via an app and develop a customized treatment plan. The provider also sends prescriptions directly to the patient's door.
While there are some risks and side effects of testosterone treatment, it has many benefits. For example, it can facilitate the growth of body hair, deepen the voice, and stop menstrual cycles. Testosterone may also help relieve some of the symptoms of gender dysphoria. Testosterone can be administered as pills, injections, or pellets inserted under the skin.