Low testosterone is a sensitive issue, especially in a patient who is hoping to start a family. Providers should understand the realities of the condition, as well as what steps a patient will need to take after diagnosis. A multidisciplinary approach to care involving collaboration between healthcare providers and fertility specialists can help ensure that patients receive the comprehensive care and support they need. 

What Is Low Testosterone?

Low testosterone, also called male hypogonadism, is a condition where the testicles don’t produce sufficient quantities of the sex hormone testosterone. The condition is characterized by deficient testicular production of testosterone, with or without changes in receptor sensitivity to androgens. It may affect multiple organ systems and can result in significant health consequences and a negative impact on quality of life.

The prevalence of testosterone deficiency (TD) varies between populations and is difficult to determine in the absence of widespread, routine testing, which is currently not the standard of care. The crude Canadian prevalence of biochemical TD is estimated to be approximately 25 percent among men aged 40–62 years. The rate of TD increases with age. 

Adults may seek treatment for low testosterone after experiencing symptoms, including: 

• Reduced sex drive
• Erectile dysfunction
• Loss of armpit and pubic hair
• Shrinking testicles
• Hot flashes
• Decrease in energy
• Trouble with concentration
• Loss of muscle mass or muscle tone