What Is Low Testosterone and What Causes It? Richmond University Medical Center Warning Signs of Low Testosterone in Men Your doctor will take a thorough history of your symptoms and then complete a physical exam, including your body hair, breast tissue, and the size and consistency of the testes and scrotum. Your doctor will also use blood tests to see if your total testosterone level is low. To get a diagnosis of hypogonadism, you need at least two early morning (7–10 AM) blood tests that reveal low testosterone in addition to signs and symptoms typical of low testosterone. About 15% of men with fertility problems have low testosterone levels. The most common treatment is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). In males, hypogonadism, a condition where the testicles produce little or no testosterone, may occur at any age. More research is needed into the connection between consumption of soy products such as edamame and tofu and testosterone levels. Dairy products can also contain synthetic or natural hormones which could have an impact on hormone levels. More surprisingly, mint and spearmint, because of their menthol content, may reduce testosterone levels. Following a discussion with your physician, you could be prescribed testosterone replacement therapy. This would come in the form of skin patches, topical gels/creams, injections, or implantable pellets. Testosterone replacement has risks and side effects, so make sure you meet with your Urologist first. When your testosterone level is low, you may not be able to get or keep an erection. There are several effective therapy options for low testosterone. Your urologist should be able to provide you with a range of options and discuss what may work best for you, along with any potential side effects. But if you are noticing bald spots you haven’t seen before, are struggling to grow beard hair that used to sprout quickly or notice more thinning hair on your body than usual, it could be an indication of low testosterone. Testosterone is so much more than its reputation would suggest. The search yielded 15,217 references, 546 (enrolling approximately 350,000 men) of which were used to support guideline statements. Minimal data were found regarding outcomes of frailty, risk of venous thromboembolism, hyperestrogenemia, sleep apnea, prostate biopsy, recurrence of treated prostate cancer, and incidence of breast cancer. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were sought for effectiveness questions, whereas both randomized and non-randomized studies were sought for adverse events and questions of association and risk factors. Random effects meta-analyses were performed when deemed appropriate. Evidence tables (for included studies) and evidence profiles (showing estimates of effect for the outcomes of interest) were generated and presented to the Panel. The hormone is produced in the testicles and plays a significant role in the development of male characteristics. The bodily processes influenced by testosterone include regulating libido (sex drive), bone growth, distribution of fat, muscle size and strength, and the production of red blood cells and sperm. For example, it is normal to feel less interested in sex as you get older.