Hypogonadism Specialists

What is Hypogonadism?

Hypogonadism is a condition in which the body doesn’t produce enough testosterone, a reproductive hormone that plays an important role in masculine growth and development during puberty.

Hypogonadism can also refer to the inability to make enough sperm.

What are the Symptoms of Hypogonadism?

The symptoms of hypogonadism depend on when the condition develops. For instance, if a baby’s body doesn’t produce enough of these hormones during fetal development, the external sex organs might not grow properly.

Depending on when hypogonadism develops and how much testosterone is present, a child who is genetically male might be born with:

• Ambiguous genitals that are neither clearly male or female
• Female genitals
• Underdeveloped male genitals

With adult males, hypogonadism can change some masculine physical characteristics and negatively affect reproductive functioning. Adult males with hypogonadism might have:

• Decreased muscle mass
• Gynecomastia, the development of breast tissue
• Erectile dysfunction
• Infertility
• Decreased beard growth and body hair
• Osteoporosis, the loss of bone mass 

Hypogonadism can also cause emotional changes. If you’re dealing with any symptoms of hypogonadism, you should visit the Associated Urologists of North Carolina for an evaluation.

What Causes Male Hypogonadism?

Various factors can cause both primary and secondary hypogonadism. Hypogonadism often takes place when your testicles don’t secrete enough testosterone.

• Primary Hypogonadism: Primary hypogonadism (primary testicular failure) involves problems with the testicles.
• Secondary Hypogonadism: Secondary hypogonadism indicates issues with the pituitary gland or your hypothalamus — parts of your brain that signal the testicles to create more testosterone. Hypogonadism might be caused or exacerbated by abnormal chromosomes, an inherited trait, or environmental factors later in life, such as an infection or injury. Other possibilities include - hemochromatosis (excess iron in the blood), cancer treatments like chemotherapy, abnormalities in the pituitary gland and pituitary disorders, Kallmann syndrome (abnormal development of the hypothalamus), HIV/AIDS that affects the testes, hypothalamus, and pituitary gland, some medications (certain hormones and opiate medications), and obesity.

Some inflammatory conditions, like tuberculosis, can also lead to hypogonadism.

How is Hypogonadism Treated?

The first step is usually an in-depth discussion with your urologist, a physical exam, and any other necessary testing, such as semen analysis, blood work, and genetic studies. To treat hypogonadism, your urologist might suggest:

• Testosterone replacement therapy
• Medications
• Healthy lifestyle changes, such as stress management and nutritional counseling
• Surgery, such as implanting a penile prosthetics

During your initial consultation, your urologist can discuss your treatment options in detail and help you decide what’s best for you.

The Associated Urologists of North Carolina can help you restore hormonal balance, treat any bothersome symptoms, lower your disease risks, and protect the health of your reproductive system. Schedule an appointment online or call the Associated Urologists of North Carolina today.