Testosterone Infertility
It seems that you can blame all the ‘defects’ of the male race on testosterone. It looks like not enough or an overabundance of testosterone might cause infertility. This is because testosterone has a very important part to play in the manufacture and delivery of sperm.
The testes, protected by the scrotum, are where all the action takes place and where the testosterone is made. Two hormones LH (luteinizing hormone) and FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) stimulate the production of testosterone. Consequently, if there is a problem with the pituitary gland, which makes FSH and LH, or the hypothalamus, which releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) which stimulates the pituitary to manufacture FSH and LH, then testosterone manufacture will also be impacted. Phew! The attributes that make men sound and look like men – facial hair, deep voice, muscular physique and the like – are all a result of testosterone released during puberty. Testosterone also keeps your libido in control.
Hypogonadism is a condition where you have a lack of testosterone. You may be born with a problem or it can happen at any time, and it can be brought about by a problem with the pituitary gland, the testes or the hypothalamus amongst other things. The shortage of testosterone attacks every aspect of your sexuality. You have decreased libido, erectile difficulties and low sperm count. Other indicators of hypogonadism include less facial and body hair, enlarged breast tissue, an increase in body fat, hot flashes and mood swings. Usually a hormone specialist (endocrinologist) is the only person who will be able to give you an accurate diagnosis. Usually you will be put on testosterone replacement therapy, but you might still need further assistance to conceive. Ensure that your doctor knows that you want to conceive as this can impact your treatment.
You probably never thought that lots of testosterone can be a problem, but hypergonadism may also bring about infertility. This is a lot rarer than hypogonadism and more difficult to treat. Men who suffer from hypergonadism will experience abnormal hair growth, enlarged breast tissue, increased muscle mass (the only good news), early puberty and acne.
Lots of testosterone could also be a problem for the women as this is what causes PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome), a common factor in female infertility. Trouble losing weight, excess facial hair, acne and irregular or absent periods are all indicators of PCOS. So abnormal testosterone quantities in men or women can cause fertility difficulties. With the correct amount of testosterone, infertility is less likely. Possibly the most difficult thing to cope with if you suffer from hyper- or hypogonadism is your perception of yourself as a man, so don’t be reluctant to get help.
Here is more information on What is Infertility. Here is a website with a free mini-course dedicated to Infertility.