Are you considering testosterone therapy? Then it’s important to know what to expect. In this article, I’ll explain everything you need to consider when undergoing testosterone treatment.
In the Netherlands, low testosterone is treated in two main ways: using gel or injections.
This method involves applying a testosterone-containing gel to your body. This causes your testosterone levels to rise quickly. However, they also drop quickly, so the gel must be applied daily.
Another way to increase testosterone levels is through injections. In this method, a testosterone liquid is injected into the body. Most men choose to inject into the buttocks or thigh. In the Netherlands, both Sustanon (a short-acting testosterone) and Nebido (a very long-acting testosterone) are available.
Finally, testosterone production can also be increased by using certain medications in pill form.
Each option has its pros and cons. Together, we will decide which treatment is best for you. In all cases, you administer the medication yourself, so there’s no need to visit a clinic. Of course, during consultations, I’ll thoroughly explain how to do this properly.
FREYR offers treatment with testosterone gel, injections (both short- and long-acting), and pills. I do not work with testosterone delivered via patches or implants.
Did you purchase testosterone on your own? I can help you determine the correct dosage and advise you on what to consider. Factors such as age, body fat percentage, and the method of administration all influence the dosage I recommend. Additionally, I’ll help you monitor your health through medical testing to use testosterone as responsibly as possible.
The treatment duration is at least three months. It can sometimes take up to 12 months to achieve the maximum effect. Some symptoms, such as improved libido, often improve quickly. Others may take longer. If there is insufficient improvement, we can adjust or stop the treatment. I will discuss this with you during follow-up consultations.
The appropriate dosage of testosterone varies from person to person. There is no universal optimal level that works for everyone. During consultations, we’ll determine the testosterone level needed to alleviate your symptoms.
Whether you are prescribed TRT or are using testosterone you purchased yourself, medical check-ups are crucial. In the Netherlands, the personal use of self-purchased testosterone is tolerated by the government. As a doctor, I also assist individuals using testosterone on their own.
A medical check-up includes a blood test followed by a consultation. The first check-up takes place three months after starting TRT. After that, annual check-ups are usually sufficient.
During these check-ups, the following questions are addressed:
Like any medication, testosterone therapy comes with potential side effects, including:
Additionally, there are side effects related to the administration of testosterone, such as skin reactions (itching, redness) with gel or infections at injection sites.
Most side effects occur due to improper use of TRT, such as incorrect or excessive dosages. With my guidance, you’ll receive testosterone therapy tailored to you.
During TRT, your body’s natural production of testosterone and sperm cells decreases. In many cases, this means that men on TRT are less fertile or even infertile. This is important to consider if you’re planning to have children.
A possible treatment to address this issue is the administration of the hormone hCG and other hormones. You can also consult me for treatments to improve your fertility. It’s possible to enhance fertility despite using testosterone or other male hormones.
There are many myths suggesting that testosterone therapy causes prostate cancer or cardiovascular diseases. However, recent studies show no increased risk when testosterone is used responsibly. Therefore, it’s advisable to have your blood tested to understand your needs and minimize risks.
There are various ways to treat low testosterone. The most common methods include gel, injections, and pills. The optimal effect and method depend on the individual. Most side effects arise from improper use, and if you’re planning to have children, you need extra guidance.
Do you have more questions? Visit the Testosterone Therapy page or ask me directly.
