Hypogonadism is a medical condition that occurs when the sex glands, known as the gonads, produce little or no sex hormones. The gonads in males are the testes, which produce the male hormone testosterone. In females, the gonads are the ovaries, which produce the female hormones estrogen and progesterone.
There are two main types of hypogonadism:
- Primary hypogonadism occurs when there is a problem with the gonads and they do not function properly. This means the testes or ovaries do not produce enough sex hormones. Primary hypogonadism can be caused by developmental problems, genetic defects, infections, tumors, or damage to the gonads.
- Secondary hypogonadism occurs when there is a problem with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus in the brain. These glands produce hormones that signal the gonads to produce sex hormones. If they do not signal properly, it can lead to decreased production of sex hormones. Secondary hypogonadism can be caused by tumors, infections, or head injuries.
What are the symptoms of hypogonadism?
Symptoms vary depending on the age when hypogonadism develops and how severely the gonads are affected.
Common symptoms in
adolescent boys include:
- Delayed or absent puberty
- Small genitals
- Low muscle mass
- Lack of deepening of the voice
In
adult males, symptoms include:
- Low libido (sex drive)
- Erectile dysfunction
- Reduced muscle mass and strength
- Loss of body and facial hair
- Breast enlargement (gynecomastia)
- Depression, irritability, low energy
Women may experience:
- Absent or irregular periods
- Infertility
- Vaginal dryness
- Decreased libido
- Loss of body hair
- Emotional changes
How is hypogonadism diagnosed?
If hypogonadism is suspected, a doctor will take a medical history and do blood tests to measure hormone levels. A low level of testosterone or estrogen helps confirm the diagnosis. Additional tests like semen analysis in men or imaging tests of the pituitary gland may also be done.
What is the treatment for hypogonadism?
- Hormone replacement therapy can restore normal hormone levels. Testosterone is replaced in males, while women receive estrogen and/or progesterone therapy.
- Treating the underlying cause may resolve the problem if a tumor or infection led to secondary hypogonadism.
- Fertility treatments like IVF can help couples struggling with infertility.
In summary, hypogonadism occurs when the gonads produce insufficient sex hormones. Symptoms depend on age, gender, and severity but may include sexual dysfunction, decreased muscle and bone mass, and emotional changes. Hormone replacement and targeting the underlying cause are the mainstays of treatment. Close monitoring by an endocrinologist is recommended.
If you suspect you may have hypogonadism, contact the hormone experts at
Vitality Hormone Clinic to schedule a comprehensive evaluation. Our caring medical team has years of experience accurately diagnosing and effectively treating hormone disorders through customized treatment plans. Don't wait - call today to take control of your health!