"Navigating Hormonal Disruption: Effects of Steroids and TRT on Testicular Health"
"Decoding Testicular Changes: TRT and Testicular Size"
When
individuals take anabolic steroids
or exogenous testosterone injections, gels or patches, for performance
enhancement or testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), the body's natural
hormonal balance is disrupted. The testes, responsible for producing
testosterone, respond to this external addition of hormones by decreasing their
own production of testosterone. Men on testosterone therapy typically are
prescribed a gel or cream, patch or injectable testosterone cypionate or
enanthate. Some men who take performance enhancing anabolic steroids can take
more that one form of synthetic (non bio-identical) anabolic drugs. Steroids are a class of compounds, and within
this category, there are various types. Some popular anabolic-androgenic
steroids (AAS), which are often associated with performance enhancement and
muscle growth, include:
1.
Testosterone: The primary male sex hormone and the foundation for many other
synthetic steroids. Variants include testosterone enanthate, testosterone
cypionate, testosterone propionate, etc.
2.
Nandrolone: Examples include
Deca-Durabolin (nandrolone decanoate) and Durabolin (nandrolone
phenylpropionate).
3.
Stanozolol: Commonly known by the
brand name Winstrol.
4.
Oxandrolone: Known by the brand
name Anavar.
5.
Methandrostenolone: Often referred to as
Dianabol.
6.
Trenbolone: Variants include
trenbolone acetate and trenbolone enanthate.
"Why Do My Nuts Shrink on TRT?"
The body has a complex system of checks and balances to maintain hormone levels within a certain range. When an individual introduces exogenous testosterone (steroids) into the body, the hypothalamus region of the brain detects higher-than-normal testosterone levels. In response, the brain signals the testes to reduce their natural production of testosterone. This is a mechanism known as negative feedback regulation. The hypothalamus decreases the
secretion of gonadotropic releasing hormone (GnRH) and this in turn suppresses the secretion of two very important gonadotropins. Luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone (LH and FSH). In men, these hormones play crucial roles in the regulation of the reproductive system and the production of sex hormones.
- Luteinizing
Hormone (LH):
- In men, LH stimulates the Leydig cells in the testes
to produce testosterone, the primary male sex hormone. It controls the
rate of testosterone synthesis and secretion.
- LH also plays a role in the maturation of sperm cells
within the testes by supporting the function of Leydig cells, which
indirectly affects sperm production.
- Follicle-Stimulating
Hormone (FSH):
- FSH is essential for spermatogenesis, the process by
which immature sperm cells (spermatogonia) develop into mature sperm
cells (spermatozoa).
- FSH stimulates the Sertoli cells in the testes, which
support and nourish developing sperm cells, providing nutrients and
creating the proper environment for sperm maturation.
Both LH and FSH work in
coordination to regulate the testes' functions in producing testosterone and
supporting sperm production. Proper levels and functioning of these hormones
are vital for maintaining reproductive health and fertility in men. Changes or
imbalances in LH and FSH levels can impact testosterone production and sperm
development, potentially leading to fertility issues or hormonal imbalances.
The decreased production of testosterone by the testes due to the presence of external hormones can cause testicular atrophy, which refers to the shrinking of the testes. Since the testes are producing less testosterone themselves, they may decrease in size. So when men ask “Will my balls shrink if I take testosterone?” the answer could be yes. Not everyone responds the same way to treatments, however it is a side effect of taking testosterone.
Will My Balls Return to Normal if I Stop Testosterone?
It's important to note that while testicular atrophy might occur temporarily during steroid use, in many cases, the testes can regain their normal size once the use of exogenous hormones is discontinued, allowing natural testosterone production to resume. However, the recovery of testicular
size and function may take some time after stopping steroid use or TRT. Another popular option to help maintain testicular function when taking exogenous testosterone
is the use of hCG, clomid or enclomiphene. Some clinics even prescribe Gonadorelin for this purpose. These drugs can help maintain both size of the testes as well as maintain fertility. There are benefits and potential risks associated with all
medication so it’s important to consult with your doctor to see what options may be best suited for your unique medical needs. There are many clinics that can prescribe hCG for men on testosterone, however the supply of hCG is low and the demand is high as it is a very effective medication.
What Happens to My Hormone Levels if I Take Testosterone?
This phenomenon highlights the body's attempt to maintain
hormonal balance but underscores the potential consequences of using external hormones, including the impact on natural hormone production and the associated
changes in organ size and function. Other potential issues can arise such as an increase in estrogen levels due to aromatization, the biochemical process where androgens are converted into estrogens specifically estradiol, through the
action of the enzyme aromatase. This conversion occurs mainly in adipose tissue (body fat) and in the testes.
In males, a small amount of testosterone naturally converts into estrogen to maintain a hormonal balance. However, excessive aromatization can occur due to various factors such as steroid use, excess body fat or certain medications. Aromatization can have significant effects, especially in men, leading to imbalances in hormone levels. Excess estrogen in males can cause symptoms such as gynecomastia (enlargement of breast tissue), water retention, and mood changes. In some cases, it can also contribute to reduced fertility and other health issues. Men on TRT typically will not see estradiol levels rise to dangerous levels but its always a good idea to monitor and blood markers that may shed light on your hormonal balance while on any form of HRT. A simple blood test can help provide your doctor valuable information and help make any needed adjustments in your protocol to alleviate and signs or symptoms of sub-optimal hormone levels.
*NovaGenix neither supports, or assists in the prescription of anabolic steroids or other non-bio-identical compounds for performance enhancement. We strictly adhere to all FDA regulations regarding the utilization of testosterone for TRT for patients who qualify medically.
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