Low T and Infertility

Treating Low Testosterone to Boost Male Fertility

Testosterone plays an important role in making sperm. Gonadotropin-releasing hormones (GnRH) signal the testes to produce testosterone, which is imperative to a healthy sperm count. A lower sperm count will greatly decrease chances of pregnancy.

There is an overwhelming amount of information available on the topic of low testosterone, commonly known as “low T.” The most frequent symptoms are low sex drive and inability to achieve or maintain an erection. Other, less apparent, symptoms can include:

  • Lower energy levels and ambition
  • Increased irritability, difficulty concentrating and/or depression
  • Decrease in body hair, decline in muscle mass and/or increased breast size

A visit to Dr. James Douglas and the staff at IVF Plano can help determine if the cause is related to low T; together we can design a couple’s treatment plan for male infertility.

Your office visit to IVF Plano

At IVF Plano, we see both women and couples. Men typically become patients when a couple, having trouble conceiving, visits our office together. During the initial office visit, we will assess both the male and female partner in search for potential contributing factors. Infertility is a complex condition in which the male partner is estimated to contribute significantly in 40-50 percent of couples. Some basic questions Dr. Douglas will ask both partners include:

  • Medical history
  • Current and past medications (prescription and non-prescription)
  • Lifestyle choices and habits

If low testosterone appears to be a factor, a blood test is required to get an accurate measure of testosterone level. The normal range for total testosterone is between approximately 300 and 1,000 nanograms per deciliter. A low testosterone diagnosis is generally made when patients fall below that range.

Potential Male Fertility Treatments for Low T

The internet is filled with websites touting a wide range of cures for low T; only a qualified doctor should be trusted to help determine whether or not a patient is a candidate for any medications.

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can bring testosterone levels back to normal while decreasing the uncomfortable symptoms. Unfortunately, testosterone replacement therapy has a negative impact on a man’s reproductive potential. In fact, TRT causes the majority of men to drop their sperm counts while on replacement therapy.

Dr. Douglas can help determine the optimal course of treatment in conjunction with a urologist. Generally hormonal problems are successfully treated with medications such as Clomid, tamoxifen or letrozole.

In addition to medication, many men see testosterone levels raised by making lifestyle changes. Improving overall health could also help to maintain a healthy testosterone level.

If you feel low testosterone may be negatively impacting your fertility, feel free to make an appointment to visit IVF Plano.