Managing Sexual Symptoms Caused by Hormone Imbalance

Though most ED treatments offer temporary solutions that must be implemented each time an erection is desired, hormone therapy has the potential to address one specific cause at its root.

Hormone imbalances can cause several—often overlapping—sexual symptoms, including loss of desire, lack of energy and stamina, and problems achieving or maintaining an erection. Identifying which hormones are involved and correcting their levels with hormone therapy may eliminate the imbalance and improve sexual functioning.

Testosterone: Testosterone levels decrease as men age, but some men experience a steeper drop that results in hypogonadism. Experiencing low testosterone (low T) for even a short time can diminish sex drive, lower sperm count, and cause difficulties with erections. If low levels persist, a man may also lose muscle mass, bone density and experience anemia. Low T may be treated with oral, injectable, implantable pellets, gel, or patches to try and restore healthy hormone levels.

Prolactin: This hormone is produced by the pituitary gland. A pituitary tumor and certain medications may lead to hyperprolactinemia which can cause low T and ED.

Thyroid hormones: Produced in the thyroid gland, thyroid hormones play a role in regulating weight, metabolism, body temperature, and many other body functions. Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism may cause ED, and normalizing thyroid hormones may restore erectile functioning without additional treatment.

Since these three hormones are interconnected, an imbalance may be tricky. When a man is overweight, there may be an additional challenge, as increased conversion of testosterone to estrogen by enzymes in body fat may further complicate the imbalance.

Hormone Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction

When you suspect a hormone imbalance, the first step is to find a practitioner specializing in the complexities of hormone health and aging. When trying to obtain an accurate diagnosis, you’ll begin with a complete medical history review and thorough lab testing. With the benefits of telemedicine, you can initiate the process with a virtual consultation and at-home testing from the privacy of your home.

If your provider determines that hormone imbalance is a causative factor in your sexual dysfunction, customized hormone therapy can be compounded according to your needs and delivered directly to your door. You will also receive recommendations about supportive lifestyle modifications that may include limiting alcohol, quitting smoking, adding supplements, and adopting a heart-healthy nutrition and exercise plan. Through scheduled follow-up visits, your provider will monitor to ensure that your treatment goals are being met.