Since T shots and other TRT methods have increased in the US among men, usually from age 35 and up, there have been concerns about the link between low testosterone and fertility. The issue is whether low testosterone affects fertility in adult males? It’s a yes and no answer, unfortunately.
First, low T in itself cannot cause fertility or prevent an adult male from having a family. It does affect sexual function and erectile capability though, so it is a problem that must be dealt with too. Does low testosterone cause low sperm count, you might then ask? The correct response is that you do need testosterone to produce sperm, and in that regard, low testosterone could be cause for concern if you want to start a family as a man.
However, and happily, the testosterone level in the testes (where sperm is produced by the way) is usually much higher than in the bloodstream. This means even with a low T problem, you are usually producing sufficient quantities of sperm to ensure a healthy sperm count for procreation.
However, to repeat the question: can low testosterone cause infertility? Here’s how it works.
Patients with low T do often seek treatment in the form of shots, gels, pellets, or a patch. Unfortunately, testosterone therapy reduces sperm development by reducing rates of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) which is necessary to promote the output of sperms. Infertility caused by the therapy in most situations is reversible. So, low T effects on fertility are indirect, but still present.
Usually, this infertility is not permanent and can be reversed when you stop treatment. This is the case especially when treatment is for a short period. In some cases, fortunately very few, this infertility is inexplicably irreversible. Your male reproductive specialist will be in the best position to advise on this matter, as it concerns your case.
As a general rule, though, stopping your TRT is a good idea if you are starting a family. Although all types of treatment are equally culpable, treatment by injection is thought to be the worst in this regard.
While it is true your testes may be producing enough sperm for procreation, still, you do need to take care of your low T levels. The ideal situation would be to deal with the problem while keeping an eye on fertility.
Treatment for fertility will follow this method:
Examination and Testing
Get tested using a mix of blood samples, physical body checks, and any other tests the doctor comes up with. Low T signs must be determined before you can proceed.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will have diagnosed low T before treatment can continue. Be sure to share your fertility concerns for accurate diagnoses and prescriptions.
Treatment
Remember when you are undergoing treatment, there is going to be a fine line between productive gals and sexual goals. While low T treatment will bring up lost libido and sexual function, this TRT will at the same time discourage sperm production.
To solve this and to be safe, injections may be administered by your doctor which helps by relaying signals to the testes to increase sperm production. We have asserted that your sperm production should be enough generally anyway, and this is by way of making absolutely sure.
Monitoring and Follow up
Careful evaluation must happen to ensure both sexual and reproductive goals are being served. Again, the quality of care in Testosterone Clinic PRO is important