Hypogonadism
What is Hypogonadism?
Hypogonadism is a condition where your body's sex glands do not make enough hormones. In men, the testes produce too little testosterone. In women, the ovaries produce too little estrogen. These hormones control sexual development, fertility, and many other body functions.
The condition can be present from birth or develop later in life. Primary hypogonadism means the problem is in the sex glands themselves. Secondary hypogonadism means the problem is in the brain, specifically the pituitary gland or hypothalamus. These brain areas send signals to the sex glands to make hormones.
Low hormone levels affect energy, mood, muscle mass, bone density, and sexual function. Many people live with hypogonadism for years without knowing it. Blood tests can identify hormone imbalances and help guide treatment. Early detection allows you to address symptoms before they impact your quality of life.
Symptoms
- Low sex drive or loss of interest in sexual activity
- Fatigue and reduced energy levels throughout the day
- Depression, mood swings, or irritability
- Difficulty concentrating or mental fog
- Reduced muscle mass and increased body fat
- Erectile dysfunction in men
- Hot flashes in both men and women
- Loss of body and facial hair
- Breast development in men, known as gynecomastia
- Irregular or absent menstrual periods in women
- Infertility or difficulty conceiving
- Loss of bone density leading to osteoporosis
Some people have very mild symptoms that develop slowly over time. Others may not notice symptoms at all in the early stages. Regular blood testing can catch hormone imbalances before symptoms become severe.
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Causes and risk factors
Hypogonadism has many possible causes. Primary hypogonadism can result from genetic conditions like Klinefelter syndrome, autoimmune disorders, infections, or injury to the testes or ovaries. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can damage sex glands. Aging naturally reduces hormone production, especially after age 50 in men. Certain medications, including opioids and steroids, can suppress hormone levels.
Secondary hypogonadism often stems from pituitary tumors, inflammatory diseases, obesity, or chronic stress. Sleep disorders like sleep apnea reduce hormone production during rest. Excessive alcohol use and poor nutrition deplete the raw materials your body needs to make hormones. Chronic diseases like diabetes and kidney disease also impact hormone balance. Understanding your root cause helps target the most effective treatment approach.
How it's diagnosed
Doctors diagnose hypogonadism through blood tests that measure hormone levels. Key tests include testosterone, estradiol, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and related sex hormones. These tests are typically done in the morning when hormone levels are highest. Low testosterone combined with low LH and FSH suggests secondary hypogonadism. Low testosterone with high LH and FSH suggests primary hypogonadism.
Rite Aid offers testing for hypogonadism through our flagship blood panel. Our test measures testosterone, free testosterone, estradiol, estrone, total estrogen, FSH, LH, and dihydrotestosterone. You can get tested at over 2,000 Quest Diagnostics locations nationwide. Results help you and your doctor understand your hormone balance and create a personalized treatment plan.
Treatment options
- Hormone replacement therapy with testosterone for men or estrogen for women
- Weight loss through nutrition changes and regular exercise
- Strength training to build muscle mass and support hormone production
- Stress reduction techniques like meditation and adequate sleep
- Limiting alcohol intake to no more than 1 to 2 drinks per day
- Eating a nutrient-dense diet with healthy fats, proteins, and vegetables
- Treating underlying conditions like sleep apnea or pituitary disorders
- Adjusting or stopping medications that suppress hormone production
- Addressing micronutrient deficiencies like vitamin D and zinc
- Working with a doctor to monitor hormone levels and adjust treatment
Concerned about Hypogonadism? Get tested at Rite Aid.
- Simple blood draw at your nearest lab
- Results in days, not weeks
- Share results with your doctor
Frequently asked questions
Primary hypogonadism means the sex glands themselves are not working properly. Secondary hypogonadism means the brain is not sending proper signals to the sex glands. Blood tests showing LH and FSH levels help doctors determine which type you have. Treatment approaches differ based on the underlying cause.
Some cases can improve with lifestyle changes, especially when caused by obesity, poor sleep, or stress. Weight loss, exercise, and better nutrition can raise testosterone levels naturally. However, genetic conditions and permanent damage to sex glands usually require hormone replacement therapy. Work with your doctor to identify your specific cause and treatment options.
Testosterone levels typically peak in the late teens to early twenties. After age 30, levels decline by about 1% per year on average. By age 50, many men notice symptoms of lower testosterone. However, a steep drop in testosterone is not normal aging and should be evaluated.
If you have symptoms, get baseline blood work as soon as possible. Once on treatment, retest every 3 to 6 months to monitor hormone levels. After levels stabilize, annual testing helps ensure your treatment remains effective. Rite Aid offers 2 tests per year with our subscription service.
Yes, hypogonadism can significantly reduce fertility in both men and women. Low testosterone reduces sperm production in men. Low estrogen disrupts ovulation in women. However, many people with hypogonadism can still conceive with proper treatment. Fertility specialists can help you explore options if you want to have children.
Opioid pain medications are a common cause of low testosterone. Corticosteroids, chemotherapy drugs, and some antifungal medications also suppress hormone production. Certain antidepressants and blood pressure medications may lower testosterone too. If you take these medications and have symptoms, talk to your doctor about alternatives or additional testing.
Yes, women can develop hypogonadism when their ovaries produce too little estrogen. This can happen before menopause due to medical treatments, autoimmune conditions, or genetic disorders. Symptoms include irregular periods, hot flashes, low sex drive, and bone loss. Blood tests measuring estradiol, FSH, and LH help diagnose the condition.
Testosterone therapy is generally safe when monitored by a doctor. Potential side effects include acne, sleep apnea, enlarged prostate, and changes in cholesterol levels. Regular blood tests ensure your levels stay in a healthy range. Your doctor will also monitor your red blood cell count and prostate health.
Strength training and high-intensity exercise boost testosterone production. Getting 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night is essential. Eating enough healthy fats, protein, and vegetables provides hormone-building nutrients. Reducing stress, limiting alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight all support hormone balance.
Yes, low testosterone and estrogen levels make it easier to gain fat and harder to build muscle. Hormones regulate metabolism, energy levels, and how your body stores fat. Treating hypogonadism often makes weight loss easier. However, diet and exercise remain important for reaching and maintaining a healthy weight.