Male Hormonal Disorder
HOW COMMON IT IS?
In India, the prevalence of hypogonadism in men over 40 years of age is 20–48%
Male hormonal disorders refer to conditions where the body produces too little or too much of certain hormones, primarily testosterone, which can lead to a range of physical, emotional, and reproductive issues. These imbalances can significantly impact a man’s quality of life, affecting everything from sexual function to muscle mass and mood. Timely diagnosis and treatment are key to managing these conditions effectively.
We are expert in diagnosing and treating male hormonal disorders as well as help men to regain their hormonal balance and improve overall health and well-being. Hormonal imbalances can affect various aspects of male health, from energy levels to reproductive function, and our expert team is here to provide comprehensive care for these conditions.
types of male hormonal disorders
Hypogonadism / Low Testosterone
Hypogonadism, or low testosterone, occurs when the body fails to produce enough testosterone. Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, responsible for regulating sex drive, muscle mass, bone density, and sperm production. A deficiency in testosterone can lead to symptoms such as decreased libido, fatigue, loss of muscle mass, mood swings, and even depression.
causes
- Primary Hypogonadism: This type arises from problems with the testes themselves, which are unable to produce adequate testosterone. Causes include genetic disorders such as Klinefelter syndrome, physical injury to the testicles, or damage from chemotherapy or radiation treatments.
- Secondary Hypogonadism: In this case, the issue lies in the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, both of which play key roles in signaling the testes to produce testosterone. Causes of secondary hypogonadism can include obesity, aging, chronic diseases such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and even certain medications, including steroids and opiates.
Male infertility
Male infertility refers to the inability to conceive a child after a year of regular unprotected intercourse. Hormonal imbalances are a significant cause of male infertility, affecting sperm production, quality, and function. In many cases, low testosterone levels or other hormonal issues can directly contribute to infertility by impacting sperm count or motility (movement).
causes
- Hormonal Imbalance: The endocrine system plays a critical role in sperm production. Testosterone, along with hormones produced by the pituitary gland, is essential for sperm maturation. If there’s an imbalance, the sperm count can drop, or the sperm may be of low quality.
- Genetic Disorders: Conditions such as Klinefelter syndrome or Y chromosome microdeletions can interfere with normal sperm production.
- Lifestyle & Environmental Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol intake, obesity, exposure to toxins, and stress can all negatively affect hormone levels and sperm quality. Additionally, conditions such as varicoceles (enlarged veins in the scrotum) can also affect fertility.
It is estimated that 15-20% of couples in India suffer from infertility & of these, male infertility contributes to 40-50% of all cases
Androgen Abuse
Androgen abuse involves the misuse of anabolic steroids, which are synthetic substances similar to testosterone. These steroids are often used to enhance muscle mass, strength, and athletic performance. However, prolonged or excessive use can lead to serious health complications, including hormonal imbalances, fertility issues, and psychological problems.
causes
- Voluntary Steroid Use: The most common cause of androgen abuse is the intentional use of anabolic steroids without medical supervision. This is often done by athletes or bodybuilders seeking to enhance their physical performance or appearance.
- Psychological & Social Pressures: In some cases, societal or peer pressure to maintain a certain body image or level of athletic ability can lead to dependence on anabolic steroids. This misuse disrupts the body’s natural hormone production, leading to a cascade of health issues.
How is male hormonal disorder Treated?
Male hormonal disorders, such as hypogonadism, infertility, and androgen abuse, can significantly impact a man’s physical and emotional well-being, but with the right treatment, these conditions can often be managed effectively. Here’s a detailed look at how these disorders are treated:
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
- Testosterone Administration: Testosterone can be administered in several forms, including injections, patches, or tablets. The method chosen depends on the patient’s preferences and the physician’s recommendations.
- Injections: Administered every few weeks, testosterone injections are one of the most common forms of treatment for hypogonadism.
- Tablets: Oral testosterone supplements are also an option, though they are less commonly prescribed due to concerns about long-term liver impact.
Fertility Treatments
Hormonal Therapy: If the infertility is due to low testosterone or other hormonal imbalances affecting sperm production, gonadotropin injections or clomiphene citrate may be used to stimulate the testes to produce more testosterone and sperm. Gonadotropins are hormones that directly stimulate the testes, whereas clomiphene works by signaling the brain to increase its production of natural hormones.
Medications: In cases where an underlying health issue, such as hypothyroidism or hyperprolactinemia, is contributing to infertility, treating the primary condition with medications can restore fertility. For example, medications that lower prolactin levels can help improve sperm production.
Androgen Abuse Treatment
Tapering Off Steroid Use: Gradually discontinuing anabolic steroids is crucial to prevent withdrawal symptoms and allow the body’s natural hormone production to resume. Stopping steroid use abruptly can lead to severe mood swings, fatigue, depression, and hormonal imbalances.
Hormone Therapy: In some cases, medications such as clomiphene or human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) are used to stimulate the natural production of testosterone and restore hormonal balance after prolonged steroid abuse.
Lifestyle Modifications
- Diet and Exercise: A healthy diet rich in nutrients, along with regular physical activity, can help maintain optimal hormone levels and overall well-being. Weight management is particularly important, as obesity can worsen hormonal imbalances, particularly testosterone levels.
- Stress Reduction: Chronic stress can disrupt hormone production and exacerbate conditions like low testosterone. Techniques such as meditation, yoga, and mindfulness can help manage stress and support hormonal balance.
- Avoiding Toxins: Reducing exposure to environmental toxins, such as chemicals found in plastics and pesticides, may help prevent further hormonal disruption.