Treating hypergonadism is difficult. The goal is to reduce hormone levels, which is more difficult than trying to increase hormone levels. The hormonal treatments that are administered for hypergonadism include a combination of hormones tailored to your particular levels.
Full Answer
How is hypergonadism treated?
Treating hypergonadism is difficult. The goal is to reduce hormone levels, which is more difficult than trying to increase hormone levels. The hormonal treatments that are administered for hypergonadism include a combination of hormones tailored to your particular levels. This can be a slow process.
What tests are done to diagnose hypergonadism?
If hypergonadism is suspected, your doctor may order a blood test to see if hormone levels are unusually elevated. Additional tests might include a pelvic ultrasound to get a more detailed view of the adrenal glands and other parts, such as the ovaries (for women).
What is hypergonadism and hypogonadism?
Hypogonadism is another term for abnormally low hormone production in the gonads. Hypergonadism and hypogonadism are both treatable. However, depending on when they appear, they can affect puberty, fertility, and other issues related to development and reproductive health.
What is hypergonadism and precocious puberty?
Precocious puberty is the early and rapid onset of changes related to sexual maturity. Hypergonadism is one of several possible causes of precocious puberty. In boys and girls, hypergonadism can bring on: Some symptoms of hypergonadism and precocious puberty are unique to each sex. In girls, hypergonadism can cause:
What is the term for a condition in which your gonads overproduce hormones?
Hypergonadism is a condition in which your gonads overproduce hormones. Gonads are your reproductive glands. In men, gonads are the testes. In women, they’re the ovaries. As a result of hypergonadism, you can end up with higher-than-normal levels of testosterone and estrogen.
What causes a boy to have more muscle mass?
early breast development. coarse body hair. In boys, hypergonadism can cause: more muscle mass. increased sex drive. spontaneous erections and nocturnal emissions. Hormonal treatments aimed at slowing the onset of puberty can be effective, and may help to make for a more normal adolescence.
What is precocious puberty?
Precocious puberty is the early and rapid onset of changes related to sexual maturity. Hypergonadism is one of several possible causes of precocious puberty. In boys and girls, hypergonadism can bring on: Some symptoms of hypergonadism and precocious puberty are unique to each sex. In girls, hypergonadism can cause:
What test is done for hypergonadism?
If hypergonadism is suspected, your doctor may order a blood test to see if hormone levels are unusually elevated. Additional tests might include a pelvic ultrasound to get a more detailed view of the adrenal glands and other parts, such as the ovaries (for women).
How does anabolic steroids affect testicular health?
Anabolic steroids can affect testicular health, including reducing the production of sperm. Generally, the complications associated with hypergonadism are related to the underlying cause. Treating the cause may help reduce symptoms and complications brought on by hypergonadism.
What is the cause of idiopathic hypergonadism?
There are several health conditions that are known to cause hypergonadism. Some of them include: injury (lesion) to the pituitary gland, genital glands, pineal glands, adrenal glands, or endocrine glands.
Can precocious puberty be diagnosed?
Doctors can’t always diagnose the cause of precocious puberty. Some conditions that are associated with it include: In mild cases of hypergonadism prior to puberty, the onset of physical and mood changes may not be abnormally early or significant enough to cause any psychological or long-term physical complications.
Diagnosis
Early detection in boys can help prevent problems from delayed puberty. Early diagnosis and treatment in men offer better protection against osteoporosis and other related conditions.
Treatment
Male hypogonadism usually is treated with testosterone replacement to return testosterone levels to normal. Testosterone can help counter the signs and symptoms of male hypogonadism, such as decreased sexual desire, decreased energy, decreased facial and body hair, and loss of muscle mass and bone density.
Clinical trials
Explore Mayo Clinic studies testing new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition.
Coping and support
Having male hypogonadism can affect your self-image and, possibly, your relationships. Talk with your health care provider about how you can reduce the anxiety and stress that often accompany these conditions. Many men benefit from psychological or family counseling.
Preparing for your appointment
Although you're likely to start by seeing your family doctor or other care provider, you might be referred to someone who specializes in the hormone-producing glands (endocrinologist).
