You’ve been feeling more tired than usual, struggling to find energy for your day-to-day activities. You’re not as motivated as you used to be, and your workouts at the gym aren’t as effective as before. Your libido has taken a dip, and you’re noticing other changes in your body, like losing muscle mass or gaining stubborn weight. You start to wonder if these issues are just part of getting older, but what if there’s more to it?

Low testosterone could be the root cause of these changes. At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we help men who are dealing with symptoms like these using testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). This guide will provide everything you need to know about TRT—how it works, the benefits, and how we can help you regain control of your health.

What is testosterone replacement therapy?

TRT, or testosterone replacement therapy, is a medical treatment that supplements low levels of testosterone in men. Testosterone is a vital hormone responsible for several key functions in the male body, including muscle development, libido, energy levels, and mood regulation. As men age, testosterone levels decline, which can lead to various symptoms that affect quality of life.

At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we offer different types of TRT, including injections, creams, and pellets, tailored to your individual needs. We aim to help you restore your testosterone levels to a healthy, optimal range and improve your overall well-being.

How does TRT work?

A comprehensive evaluation is essential before starting TRT. At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we begin with a blood test to assess your testosterone levels and overall health. This allows us to understand your unique situation and determine if TRT suits you. Once we’ve established that you’re a good candidate, TRT is administered through several methods:

• Injections: Administered weekly or bi-weekly, injections are one of the most common and effective ways to receive testosterone.
• Creams or gels: These are applied to the skin daily, allowing the hormone to be absorbed into the bloodstream gradually.
• Pellets: Tiny testosterone pellets are inserted under the skin during a minor surgical procedure, releasing testosterone steadily over several months.

Regular monitoring is key to the success of TRT. At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we check your blood work 4 to 8 weeks after starting treatment to ensure your testosterone levels are optimal. Continued monitoring every 3 to 6 months helps us adjust your dosage if needed and ensure your treatment is as safe and effective as possible.

Benefits of TRT:

• Increased energy and vitality: If you’ve been feeling tired and sluggish, TRT can help restore your energy levels. Many men report feeling more energetic and motivated within weeks of starting treatment. This increased vitality can lead to a more active lifestyle, better gym performance, and overall improvements in daily productivity.
• Improved mood and mental clarity: Low testosterone is often linked to mood changes, anxiety, and even depression. With TRT, you may experience a significant improvement in your mood, reducing irritability and mood swings. Many men also report enhanced cognitive function, including better focus, memory, and mental clarity.
• Enhanced libido and sexual function: Testosterone is crucial for maintaining a healthy sex drive and sexual performance. If you’ve noticed a decline in your libido or have experienced erectile dysfunction, TRT can help restore your sexual health and satisfaction.
• Increased muscle mass and fat loss: TRT can aid in building lean muscle mass, particularly when combined with regular strength training. It also plays a role in fat metabolism, making it easier to lose body fat—especially in stubborn areas like the abdomen.
• Improved bone density: As men age, bone density tends to decline, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. TRT can help improve bone health and reduce this risk, particularly in older individuals.

Who is a good candidate for TRT?

You might be wondering if TRT is right for you. Determining if you’re a good candidate involves several factors, and Genesis Lifestyle Medicine can guide you through the process. Here’s what we consider:

• Low testosterone levels: Blood tests confirming low testosterone levels are the primary indicator for TRT. Common symptoms of low testosterone include fatigue, low libido, erectile dysfunction, mood changes, and loss of muscle mass.
• Symptoms of testosterone deficiency: If you’re experiencing symptoms like chronic fatigue, reduced sexual drive, or decreased strength, these could be signs of low testosterone.
• Medical history: A thorough evaluation of your medical history is important to rule out conditions that could affect testosterone levels, such as obesity, diabetes, or hypogonadism.
• Physical examination: A physical exam may reveal additional signs of testosterone deficiency, like reduced muscle mass or increased body fat. This exam helps ensure that TRT is both safe and effective for you.

What to expect from TRT

TRT is not an overnight fix. It may take several weeks to notice improvements, and full benefits are usually felt within 4 to 6 weeks. Pellets, which release testosterone gradually, may take longer to show results. Most men experience increased energy, improved mood, and better sexual health within the first month of treatment. Regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle can further enhance these results.

If you’ve been struggling with symptoms like low energy, mood swings, or reduced libido, TRT may be the solution you need. Schedule a consultation at Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we’re committed to helping you restore your vitality and live your best life.