The Miriam Hospital
Low Testosterone
What is low testosterone (hypogonadism)?
Low testosterone (hypogonadism) can be classified as either primary or secondary. Primary hypogonadism occurs when the testicles are injured by infection, medication or chemotherapy, or removed as part of treatment for testicular cancer. Inherited disorders like Klinefelter’s syndrome interfere with normal development of the testicles and also cause primary hypogonadism.
Appointments and Referrals
Call us at 401-793-4636 (4MEN)
for more information about our services, or to make an appointment, or refer a patient.
Monday to Friday
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Location
The Men's Health Center
180 Corliss Street, Suite C
Providence, RI 02904
What causes low testosterone?
Hypogonadism can be classified as either primary or secondary. Primary hypogonadism results from a problem within the testicles causing a deficiency in testosterone. This is also considered classic hypogonadism and occurs more frequently in younger men who might be suffering from Klinefelter’s syndrome, or in men who have had one or both testicles removed (from prostate or testicular cancer).
Secondary hypogonadism occurs when communication between the part of the brain that controls hormone production (hypothalamus and pituitary gland) and the testicles is disrupted. Common causes of secondary hypogonadism include obesity, metabolic syndrome, sedentary lifestyle, use of opiate pain medications and prior use of testosterone.
How do I get tested for low testosterone?
A blood sample taken before 10 am is used to measure testosterone levels. If the first sample is low, a second sample is taken to confirm the low level, and additional testing for causes of low testosterone is included. LH, FSH, prolactin, and iron studies are commonly included in the assessment.
What treatment options are available for low testosterone?
The Men’s Health Center offers a number of treatment options for low testosterone. Topical gels, creams, or patches may be prescribed and applied daily by the patient. Some patients opt for testosterone cypionate injections, which are self-administered at home. An in-office teaching session with the RN/NP would be scheduled to teach the patient or a responsible party appointed by the patient on how to self-inject. After completion of the teaching session, patients will self-administer injections either weekly or biweekly.