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Struggling With ED? Consider Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a man’s inability to get or maintain an erection long enough for sex. There are many different causes, as widely varied as blood vessel conditions, neurological problems, mental health issues, and injuries. Another possibility is low levels of testosterone (low T), the primary hormone that develops men’s physical characteristics.
At Performance Rejuvenation Center in Washington, D.C., our team of hormone specialists bring their knowledge and experience to diagnose and treat men’s health problems, including ED and low T. One powerful way to improve these conditions is through testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). They discuss the therapy here.
The problem of erectile dysfunction
ED is the most common sex-related condition that men report to their doctors, especially as they get older and develop other health issues. It’s estimated to affect more than 50% of men between 40-70 years old, though the percentage may be higher since many men don’t seek help because of embarrassment or stigma.
Achieving and maintaining an erection takes a coordinated response between many of your body’s systems, including:
Circulatory system
This system transports blood throughout your body, and your penis needs adequate blood flow to become erect and stay erect. The penis also relies on a series of valves to close when blood rushes in, so it won’t rush right back out. If the valves fail, you can end up with ED.
Nervous system
This system includes your brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves that work together to send electrical impulses that ready the penis for sex. If nerves anywhere along the chain fail to work properly, it may result in ED.
Endocrine system
This system includes the glands that create and release hormones, including the primary male sex hormone, testosterone, which dilates your blood vessels, allowing blood to flow in. If you have low T, you may not be able to achieve an erection.
ED is more prevalent in men who have diabetes or heart disease, caused, in part, by nerve and blood vessel damage from those conditions.
The importance of testosterone
Testosterone is the primary androgen (male hormone), though females do make it in small amounts. It stimulates the development of male characteristics and is essential for sperm production. The hypothalamus in the brain and the pituitary gland normally control the amount of the hormone the testicles produce and release.
Testosterone maintains and develops:
- Sex organs and genitalia
- Sexual and reproductive function (i.e., libido)
- Muscle mass
- Adequate levels of red blood cells
- Bone density
Hormone levels generally peak in the morning and decline throughout the day.
Testosterone levels are at their highest in men around age 17, and they normally start to drop by about 1 to 2% each year between ages 30-40. By age 70, the average level is 30% below its peak, but it's usually still within the normal range. For some men, though, the reduced testosterone levels cause negative symptoms, like ED.
The effects of aging on testosterone levels are more common in men with Type 2 diabetes and those who are overweight or obese.
What is testosterone replacement therapy?
TRT works by raising your levels of testosterone until they’re in the normal range; once there, your body reverses the symptoms of low T.
Results vary from one man to another, but many report improved energy, sex drive, and quality of erections with some form of TRT. Testosterone also increases bone density, muscle mass, and insulin sensitivity for some, and improves mood.
If you’re having a hard time in the bedroom, you may benefit from testosterone replacement therapy. To learn more, or to schedule an in-office or telehealth appointment, call Performance Rejuvenation Center at 202-251-4472, or book online with us today.