Male hypogonadism

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Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice

Tests and diagnosis Complications Treatments and drugs Coping and support

Definition

Male hypogonadism is a condition in which the body doesn't produce enough of the sex hormone testosterone. As many as 5 million men in the United States may not produce enough testosterone — the hormone that plays a key role in masculine growth and development during puberty.

Testosterone's effects begin after conception, stimulating the formation of male sex organs. The hormone continues to play an important role through puberty and adulthood by triggering male characteristics and maintaining sex drive.

You may be born with hypogonadism, or it can develop later in life from injury or infection. The effects — and what you can do about them — depend on the cause and at what point in your life hypogonadism occurs.

During fetal development, low testosterone can cause incomplete formation of sex organs. Low testosterone levels before puberty can permanently affect growth and development. After puberty, the development of hypogonadism is more likely to cause temporary problems that may improve with treatment. Some types of hypogonadism can be treated with testosterone replacement therapy.

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Symptoms