As we get older, our testosterone levels drop naturally. To counter this effect, many men decide to take testosterone therapy. However, like many other forms of hormone therapy, testosterone replacement has some downsides.
Here are some pros and cons of testosterone therapy for men.
The Pros
- It Improves Your Love Life
One of the main reasons men take testosterone replacement therapy is to improve their sexual performance. If low testosterone levels are the cause of your performance problems, testosterone therapy can help.
- It Improves Your Mood
Research shows that testosterone therapy can also improve your mood. This is especially true for men with hypogonadism – a condition where the testes don’t function properly and your testosterone levels are diminished.
- It Promotes Bone Strength
Testosterone treatments can also improve bone strength and density in older men that have lower testosterone levels. This effect is most easily seen in the spine.
The Cons
- It Can Damage Your Arteries
Research shows that testosterone replacement therapy can increase the buildup of plaque in our arteries. This can result in clogged arteries which can affect our blood flow.
- It Can Cause a Variety of Cardiovascular Problems
The clogged arteries caused by plaque buildup can lead to several heart conditions, including heart attack and stroke. Although one study does show that men with testosterone deficiency are likely to reduce their risk of cardiovascular conditions, plaque buildup does pose a valid concern.
The Bottom Line
So, there you go – the most important pros and cons of testosterone therapy for men. Consult your doctor before deciding to take testosterone therapy so you can get informed about all potential outcomes and implications for your health.
