Hypogonadism: Frequently Asked Questions

Basics of Hypogonadism

What is Hypogonadism?

Hypogonadism is a condition where your sex glands, the ovaries in women and testes in men, produce little or no sex hormones. These hormones, like estrogen and testosterone, are essential for sexual development, reproductive health, and maintaining traits like breast development in women and muscle mass in men.

What is Primary Hypogonadism?

Primary Hypogonadism is when your sex glands, that is, your testes or ovaries, aren't making enough hormones, even though your brain is sending the right signals. This can affect things like sexual development, fertility, and overall hormone balance.

What is Secondary Hypogonadism?

Secondary Hypogonadism occurs when your sex glands, testes or ovaries, are healthy, but your brain doesn't send the accurate hormonal signals to activate them. This results in low hormone levels, impacting sexual development, fertility, and overall well-being.

Is Hypogonadism the same as Low Testosterone?

No, they are not exactly the same. Hypogonadism is when your glands don't make enough sex hormones, that is, testosterone in men or estrogen in women. Low Testosterone is just a drop in testosterone levels in men, which can happen because of Hypogonadism or other reasons.

What is Hypogonadism in females?

Hypogonadism in females, or Female Hypogonadism, is when your ovaries aren't producing enough sex hormones. This can cause things like irregular periods, trouble getting pregnant, or early menopause. It can happen because of a problem in the ovaries or because your brain isn't sending the right signals.

Causes and risk factors

What are the causes of Hypogonadism?

Causes of Hypogonadism can include genetic disorders such as Klinefelter's and Turner, infections like mumps, autoimmune diseases, tumors, surgery, medications like opioids, stress, poor nutrition, obesity, and even normal aging.

How common is Hypogonadism?

Hypogonadism is fairly common. About 35% of men over 45 and many men with obesity or Diabetes have low Testosterone. In women, around 1% experience early ovarian failure, and up to 78% of women over 52 can have low hormone levels due to brain signals.

Diagnosis and testing

What are the symptoms of Hypogonadism?

Common signs include low sex drive, fatigue, mood changes, muscle loss, weight gain, decreased bone density, infertility, irregular periods in women, and reduced body hair or breast changes. These symptoms can differ depending on your age, sex, and hormone levels. Early detection helps manage these effectively.

What does Hypogonadism look like?

Hypogonadism can show up in different ways depending on your age and sex. In men, you might notice reduced muscle mass, less body hair, smaller testes, low libido, and fatigue. In women, it can cause irregular periods, hot flashes, low sex drive, and changes in breast or body fat.

How is Hypogonadism diagnosed?

To diagnose Hypogonadism, your doctor will look at your medical history and symptoms and do an exam. They'll check your hormone levels with blood tests. Sometimes, imaging or genetic tests are done to find the cause.

Treatment and management

Is there a cure for Hypogonadism?

No, there is no exact cure for Hypogonadism, but it can usually be managed well. Treatments like hormone replacement, medications, lifestyle changes, or addressing underlying causes can help restore hormone levels, relieve symptoms, and improve your quality of life.

How can I treat Hypogonadism naturally?

You can boost your hormones naturally by staying active, keeping a healthy weight, eating nutritious foods, managing stress, getting better sleep, and avoiding smoking or too much alcohol. These lifestyle habits can improve your symptoms and overall hormone balance.

Impact and complications

Is Hypogonadism considered a disability?

Yes, Hypogonadism can be considered a disability. It will depend on how severe it is and how much it affects your daily life or ability to work. Symptoms like low energy, mood changes, and reduced libido may qualify for disability benefits if they make it hard for you to function or work.

What effects does Hypogonadism have on boys and men?

In boys, Hypogonadism can delay puberty, growth spurts, and development of sexual characteristics like facial hair and a deeper voice. In men, it can cause low libido, Erectile Dysfunction, fatigue, reduced muscle mass, increased body fat, mood changes, and infertility. Early diagnosis helps manage these effects.