Testosterone replacement therapy, or TRT, is a treatment used to help men with low testosterone levels. It can improve energy, mental clarity, and emotional stability, but it also has some side effects that are important to understand. One of the notable effects of TRT is its impact on testicular size and fertility.
When men undergo TRT, their bodies start to rely on external testosterone instead of producing it naturally. This can lead to a decrease in the size of the testicles, a condition known as testicular atrophy. The testicles are responsible for producing testosterone and sperm, so when they shrink, sperm production often decreases as well. This can result in reduced fertility or even infertility in some cases.
The reason for this effect is that the body senses the external testosterone and reduces its own production. This reduction in natural testosterone production can lead to less stimulation of the testicles, causing them to shrink and produce fewer sperm. However, not all men experience significant testicular atrophy, and the extent of the effect can vary.
To mitigate these effects, some doctors prescribe additional medications like human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) alongside TRT. hCG helps stimulate the testicles to continue producing testosterone and sperm, which can help maintain fertility potential.
It’s important for men considering TRT to discuss these potential side effects with their healthcare provider. While TRT can be very beneficial for men with low testosterone, understanding its impact on fertility and testicular size is crucial for making informed decisions about treatment.
