Testosterone is a major sex hormone produced in male bodies and it helps in the development of male reproductive organs such as the prostate and testes. It also plays other roles in male bodies which include; deepening of voice during puberty, it aids in sperm production and boosts sex drive.
Testosterone also helps in bone growth, muscle growth, and strength, it aids the growth of facial and pubic hair during puberty and may contribute to balding later in life.
Levels of testosterone may drop and lead to infertility and some of the factors that may lead to low levels are; chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, liver or kidney diseases, HIV/AIDS, or conditions like obesity.
Other factors that may lead to a low level of testosterone are; when the testicles have an infection or injured, for example, castration. Another factor is when one has a disorder that affects the hormones such as prolactin levels or pituitary tumors.
Some of the signs that help an individual know whether they have low levels of testosterone are;
When the amount of semen ejaculated reduces. Semen is the fluid that majorly helps the sperm to swim and meet the females’ egg. Low production of this fluid may lead to infertility. Another sign is low sex drive, when one has low levels of this hormone, they will definitely experience low libido.
An erection problem is another sign. This is where this hormone stimulates the penile tissues to produce nitric oxide that’s responsible for erection. One may also experience a reduction in bone mass since this hormone is responsible for the production of bone tissue and maintaining bone volume.
A decrease in bone mass can make the bones very fragile and prone to fractures. Reduction in the size of testicles shows this hormone is at a low level and testicles may also feel softer than usual. Low levels of testosterone can also lead to feelings of irritability and stress.
There are some ways that aid to correct the levels of testosterone and they include;
Replacement therapy.
This process helps to bring back some of the functions of testosterone. Replacement is usually administered through injections, patches, and skin gels, and tablets.
The other process is the use of supplements although they are only administered to older adults who have very low levels.
Testosterone levels drop naturally in men over time and it’s important to maintain them. If severe signs occur, it’s important to seek help from a medical expert and know what kind of treatment is necessary.
