Hypogonadism
Hypogonadism means the testes or ovaries produce insufficient sex hormones or gametes because of a gonadal, pituitary or hypothalamic problem. Symptoms and interpretation differ by sex, age and fertility goals.
Key takeaways
- Symptoms such as fatigue or low libido are non-specific; diagnosis requires compatible clinical features and appropriate hormone testing.
- Primary and secondary hypogonadism have different causes and may require genetic, pituitary or other investigation.
- Testosterone treatment can suppress sperm production and is not a fertility treatment.
A hormone listing cannot confirm deficiency or define replacement; repeat results, cause, fertility plans and cardiovascular or prostate risks guide care.
How is the cause assessed?
In men, morning testosterone is interpreted with LH, FSH and sometimes prolactin; repeat confirmation may be needed. Testicular injury or genetic conditions can cause primary disease. Pituitary disorders, severe illness, obesity, iron overload and medicines can suppress central signalling.
What can replacement do?
Testosterone may improve selected symptoms in confirmed male hypogonadism, but haematocrit, response and relevant prostate risks need monitoring. Treatment of pituitary disease or fertility may use a different approach. See hormone therapy for class context.
When to seek urgent care
Seek emergency help for chest pain, stroke symptoms, sudden breathlessness or one-sided leg swelling during treatment. Sudden severe headache with visual change or testicular pain and swelling needs urgent assessment.