What to Know Before Purchasing Testosterone
Testosterone production decreases as men age and can cause some unwanted side effects, such as low sex drive, weight gain, and mood swings. Testosterone therapy is a common way to treat these issues.
Because there are various risks associated with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), you should always speak with a doctor before deciding to take testosterone.
Understand the Risks (and Side Effects)
While taking testosterone can decrease the side effects you’re feeling, such as mood swings and weight gain, there are still some side effects associated with the injections. Those side effects include:
- Worsening sleep apnea
- Acne and other skin reactions
- Male pattern baldness
- Difficulty urinating
- Breast enlargement
- Non-cancerous growth in the prostate or the accelerated development of existing prostate cancer
- Limited sperm production
- Testicle shrinkage
- Increased red blood cell production
- Increased risk of blood clots
- Increased risk for heart disease
Testosterone replacement therapy may not be for everyone. If you’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer or already have a high red blood cell count, replacement therapy might not be an option.
Constant Doctor Contact
Throughout the process, you’ll be in constant contact with your doctor, as they have to monitor your red blood cell count to make sure you’re not at risk for a blood clot. If your red blood cell count increases by too much, you could develop a blood clot. A blood clot could dislodge and travel to the lungs, causing you to stop breathing.
If they find that your red blood cell count is increasing too rapidly, you may be taken off testosterone replacement therapy. Expect to see your doctor every three months within the first year of treatment and every six months after that.
You May Not Be Able to Have Children
If you’re hoping to have children in the near future, you may want to hold off on TRT. TRT can reduce sperm production and semen quality. Even after taking testosterone, this effect can linger for months to years, making it much harder to have children post-treatment.
Deciding not to have children (at least for a period of time) is a big decision, so take your time and think about it before deciding it’s what you want. If you have a partner, involve them in the decision.
Results Take Time
Before you take testosterone, you should keep in mind that these methods take some time to affect one’s body. You won’t see results right away. Everyone is different, so try not to compare yourself to average time frames. While most studies suggest that results will appear within three to six months, it may take some men longer to see results.
You Can Choose Your Treatment Method
There are a few different treatment methods for testosterone therapy, including patches, gels, and injections. Speak to your doctor about which way you believe would be suitable for you. Some doctors only offer one specific type of treatment, so shop around until you find the right doctor with the right treatment option.
If you don’t like needles, you might want to skip injections. If you’re working with a doctor in person, they’ll perform the injection for you. If you’re working with a tele-doctor or virtual doctor, you’ll have to self-inject. If you’re not okay with the idea of injecting yourself every month, opt for a different method.
How to Purchase Testosterone
There are many different ways to go about purchasing testosterone. You may be able to complete testosterone replacement therapy by speaking to your primary care physician. They’ll perform a series of tests to check your testosterone levels to see if you’re right for the treatment.
You can also purchase testosterone online through telehealth options, such as Elite HRT. If you’re looking to buy testosterone, Elite HRT has got you covered.