Male fertility issues can be due to several reasons. A few studies have linked Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) to male fertility issues. HRT helps in treating hormonal imbalances. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), a specific type of HRT, is often administered to men to increase their testosterone levels. However, recent studies have raised a particularly concerning issue. For men undergoing HRT male fertility issues seem to be a serious side effect.
Continue reading to know more about HRT and its effect on fertility.
Hormone replacement therapy is usually prescribed to those suffering from hormone imbalances. Testosterone replacement therapy, a type of hormone replacement therapy, is an effective treatment to balance the testosterone levels of men. It is a medical intervention where the testosterone hormone is added into the bloodstream via gels, patches, injections, etc. Men with low sex drive, energy and erectile dysfunctions greatly benefit from this therapy.
Testosterone is a crucial male hormone responsible for sperm production and healthy libido. Your testosterone level greatly affects your fertility, as it plays a key role in producing sperm. Male fertility and testosterone levels are closely related. Gonadotrophin-releasing hormones are responsible for healthy sperm count in men. These hormones stimulate testosterone production, which helps in the release of healthy sperm. Some notable symptoms of low testosterone levels in men are fatigue, loss of focus, sleep issues, unusual weight gain and reduced sperm production.
What happens when your testosterone levels are low? Low testosterone levels decrease sperm count, which in turn affects male fertility. Men may also suffer from erectile dysfunction due to low testosterone levels. It also greatly affects the sexual drive in men.
As you age, your testosterone levels start to diminish. Testosterone replacement therapy is an effective hormone replacement therapy commonly used to treat low testosterone levels. The different treatment options for low testosterone levels are listed below.
Testosterone Injections: It is usually administered every week to boost testosterone levels.
Topical Testosterone: In this treatment, testosterone gel or patches are applied to the skin. This non-invasive procedure could result in the suppression of sperm production.
Testosterone Nasal Gel: This is a short-acting hormone therapy where the testosterone formulation is given through the nostril two or three times a day.
Testosterone Pellets: These pellets are implanted under your skin. This helps in the release of testosterone hormone. You can expect steady hormone release with this invasive procedure.
Here’s a quick look at the advantages of opting for TRT:
Better Libido: TRT helps in maintaining your testosterone levels to boost your libido and improve your sexual functions.
Reduced Chance of Alzheimer’s Disease: Testosterone replacement treatment reduces the chance of Alzheimer’s disease in men by improving their cognitive skills.
Improves Bone Strength: Low testosterone levels decrease bone density in men. Increasing testosterone levels helps improve bone density and reduce fracture risk.
Improves Your Cardiovascular Health: Testosterone replacement therapy reduces the risk of heart disease by improving your cardiovascular health. Men who underwent TRT have a reduced chance of stroke and other heart problems.
Increases Muscle Mass: Men with lower levels of testosterone suffer from reduced muscle mass. Testosterone replacement therapy reduces fat mass and increases muscle mass. Testosterone therapy works best with strength training and exercise.
Sperm production and HRT are closely associated. Although it is the latest medical treatment to improve the sexual function of men, HRT in the form of TRT has adverse effects on their fertility. This treatment can potentially impact male fertility by decreasing sperm production, thereby reducing the chance of conception.
Testosterone replacement therapy also reduces the FSH hormone that decreases sperm production. All testosterone formulations administered suppress sperm production, impacting male fertility. Men with prolonged testosterone replacement therapy have the chance of developing permanent fertility issues.
Besides suppressing sperm production, testosterone replacement therapy comes with other health risks in men. These include:
● Sleep disorder
● Acne breakouts and other skin problems
● Risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia
● Enlarged breasts
● Abnormal production of red blood cells
● Heart disease
● Reduced testicular size
● Fluid retention
● Exhibition of aggressive behaviours
● Frequent urination
TRT is an effective treatment that boosts testosterone levels dramatically. However, it is also possible to boost your testosterone levels naturally without any medical intervention with just a few lifestyle changes. Some of the best ways to do so are given below:
Avoid Hot Baths: Hot baths can negatively affect testosterone production. To boost testosterone levels, it is recommended that you avoid bathing in hot water.
Quit Smoking: It is advisable to stop smoking when you have low testosterone levels.
Eat a Healthy Diet: A healthy diet contributes to maintaining a balance in testosterone levels.
Undertake Regular Physical Activity: Involving in physical activity can help men boost their testosterone levels.
Reduce Direct Contact with Laptops: Stop placing laptops and other electronic devices directly on your lap.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Men must maintain a healthy weight to maintain their testosterone levels.
HRT is an effective treatment for men who suffer from hormone imbalances. However, the advantages and disadvantages must be carefully considered. TRT could have serious effects on male fertility, and it could become an obstacle for couples who would like to have children. Before opting for this course of treatment, it is recommended to consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance and support.
Testosterone therapy has some adverse side effects affecting fertility in men. This type of hormone replacement therapy could lead to a reduction in sperm production. Prolonged testosterone therapy can result in permanent fertility issues. It takes several months for men to produce normal sperm after testosterone therapy.
It is possible to reverse fertility issues caused by hormone replacement therapy by stopping therapy as soon as possible.
Hormone replacement therapy, like TRT, not only affects sperm quantity but also influences sperm quality. Sperm motility and maturity are affected with long-term HRT.
