Testosterone – For Men or Women?

Many people do not realize how important testosterone is for both men and women. Testosterone is typically associated with male masculinity; however, both sexes produce this vital hormone. Men and women have the highest levels during youth, but these levels decline with age. Research done on testosterone has focused primarily on men, however due to increased interest in hormone replacement therapy, many recent studies include women as well. Dr. Lynn Flowers will evaluate men and women and develop a plan to meet your unique needs.

Low T: Natural testosterone declines with age

Long before menopause starts, testosterone levels slowly decline reaching the 50% mark after the completion of menopause. There are other common conditions that can cause testosterone to decline, including: childbirth, endometriosis, birth control pills, depression, and alcohol and drug abuse. Some medications like provera, anti depressants and antipsycotics can also affect testosterone production.

The most common symptoms of low testosterone are:

• Energy loss
• Loss of muscle tone
• Sexual dysfunction
• Hot flashes
• Breast enlargement
• Loss of body hair
• Headache
• Visual impairment

Low T is not just about sex

Many post-menopausal women gradually lose interest in sex. Research shows that replacing testosterone can increase sex drive, response, intercourse, and arousal. Sexual function is considered by many as the most important quality of testosterone. However, there are many more significant benefits. For men and women, testosterone can build muscle mass and bone density which helps prevent osteoporosis and heart disease. Its production assists the body with blood sugar and blood clotting.

Testosterone is good for the heart

Testosterone provides protective effects for the heart. Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of adults. The use of natural testosterone can lower blood pressure, and increase the good HDL cholesterol while lowering the total cholesterol. It can also improve circulation and decrease tissue breakdown due to aging. Men and women can be helped by Atlanta Dr. Lynn Flowers with testosterone replacement.

Muscles and testosterone

Healthy muscles are dependent on testosterone and this includes the pelvic muscles. Loss of muscle tone and urine control is a common and sometimes embarrassing part of aging. Using natural testosterone can improve muscle tone that assists in leaky bladders and other unwanted sagging areas of the body. This combined with Kegel exercises can be quite effective to strengthen muscle tone and reverse urinary incontinence. Flowers Medical Group in Atlanta can help you gain more strength and muscle tone.

What about testosterone side effects in women?

The most common reason doctors do not prescribe testosterone to patients is fear of side effects. It is true that excessive doses of this hormone can cause adverse reactions like unwanted hair growth and acne. However, only small doses are needed for most individuals and they should be monitored closely by Dr. Lynn Flowers MD. Using bio-identical hormones reduces the risk of side effects. These hormones are made from plants and are the same as the ones your body produces. Synthetic hormones (man-made) have a much higher incidence of side effects due to the difference in molecular structure. Synthetic hormones are those most commonly prescribed by endocrinologists. Bio-identical hormones (plant based) come as creams, gels, capsules, lozenges, injections and suppositories.

The Center for Anti Aging and Metabolic Medicine in Atlanta can develop a treatment plan to meet your needs. For low testosterone, the plan will not be limited to hormone therapy. It typically includes nutrition, exercise and lifestyle changes that naturally support testosterone. Men and women with symptoms of low testosterone should be evaluated further and treated by Flowers Medical Group who will tailor a program for you and your individual needs. Please Contact us today for a free evaluation.