Are you considering testosterone replacement therapy? Most people have a misconception that testosterone replacement therapy's main goal is solely to increase libido and improve muscular physique, which is far from the reality. It is a serious medical decision that requires planning, testing, and relationship work. In this episode of the Balls Deep podcast, Dr. Joe Pazona, a certified urologist with Pazona MD, explains the steps you must take before starting testosterone replacement therapy:
1. Test, Don’t Guess
If you’re thinking of trying testosterone replacement therapy, the first step is to check your labs.
Too many men are hopping on TRT simply because a friend at the gym recommends it. Even worse, some people get testosterone from the black market without knowing what their hormone levels are. That’s a disaster waiting to happen.
Here are the important tests you need to measure:
- Total testosterone: How much testosterone your body is producing.
- Free testosterone: It indicates how much testosterone is available for your body to use. It is very much possible for total levels to appear normal, while free levels are in the tank.
- Estradiol (Estrogen): Indeed, men have some estrogen, too. What happens when estrogen levels are too low? You could have erectile issues. Too high? You will feel rather bloated and irritable.
- Complete Blood Count & Basic Metabolic Panel: These evaluations assist in monitoring safety and determining other concerns.
👉 Bottom Line: Obtain your baseline estimates. Not having them is equivalent to operating in total darkness.
2. Assess Your Symptoms
Many men tend to believe that if they still are interested in sex and can maintain an erection, testosterone levels are high enough.
Wrong.
Low testosterone can show up as:
- Fatigue and brain fog
- Irritability
- Lacking motivation
- Loss of muscle and increased belly fat
- Trouble sleeping or poor recovery from exercise
It is possible to have an active sex life while simultaneously experiencing many other difficulties. That is likely to be a hormone issue.
Pro Tip: Your partner is likely to see this problem first rather than you. If that’s the case and she is asking what happened to her sweet and lively partner, then it’s probably your time to go to the doctor.
3. Talk to Your Partner About It
Testosterone Replacement Therapy is not solely a personal choice. It’s also a relationship decision. Once you are on testosterone replacement therapy, a sudden increase in libido may not be what your partner is ready for. She may be preoccupied, tired, stressed out or may be unaware of what you’re doing.
The most undesirable situation is a mismatch on any level, be it physical or emotional. It is not just about sex. With an increase in your energy, you are once again able to be present for your partner and children. Low testosterone is not something that only affects you personally, it is something that also affects the entire household.
If you’re planning on starting testosterone replacement therapy, bring your partner along for the ride.
4. Find a Real Expert
Testosterone replacement therapy isn’t something to outsource to a strip-mall clinic with a one-size-fits-all approach. You need an individualized strategy by a physician or specialist who:
- Knows how to dose and track testosterone
- Understands how to preserve fertility (if that matters to you)
- Regularly monitors with labs and symptom reviews
- Emphasizes sleep, proper diet, physical movement, and mitigation of stress
That’s why we created Pazona MD! Our team collaborates with men throughout the country to create customized testosterone replacement therapy plans that go beyond just a shot of testosterone. TRT is just a tool in our toolbox, not a cure-all. If you’re eating terribly or not sleeping, no amount of testosterone is going to make you feel like Superman.
Have you completed these steps and are ready to get started on testosterone replacement therapy? Learn more about testosterone replacement therapy at Pazona MD!
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
