LET’S TALK ABOUT SEX

I am a 56-year-old man and am thinking about undergoing hormone replacement therapy as my sex life has been reduced to “junk status” by my partner. What are the pros and cons, and cost implications?

Testosterone is a hormone produced primarily in the testicles and is responsible for muscle strength and mass, facial and body hair, sex drive and sperm production.

During adolescence, as a part of puberty, testosterone levels generally peak and continue to rise into early adulthood. As part of natural ageing, there is a decline in testosterone levels, typically about 1% a year after age 30.

Hypogonadism is a disease in which the body is unable to produce normal amounts of testosterone due to a problem with the testicles or with the pituitary gland that controls the testicles. Testosterone replacement therapy can improve the signs and symptoms of low testosterone.

Naturally declining testosterone levels do not necessarily lead to these symptoms. However, signs could include reduced sexual desire, fewer spontaneous erections, infertility, sleep disturbances, physical changes, and problems concentrating.

Some of these signs and symptoms can be caused by various underlying factors, including side-effects of medication, thyroid problems, diabetes and mental illness.

Testosterone therapy is not without risk. It is best to see your doctor for a thorough check-up. A blood test is the only way to diagnose a low testosterone level. Also, remember that treating normal ageing with testosterone therapy is not advisable. Doctors may prescribe testosterone in injection form, pellets, patches or gels. Availability and cost vary.