Hypogonadism

Hypogonadism is a clinical condition marked by diminished or absent secretion of sex hormones resulting from compromised gonadal function—testes in males and ovaries in females. It can be categorised as primary (gonadal failure) or secondary (hypothalamic or pituitary dysfunction). Genetic disorders, infections, autoimmune diseases, tumours, chronic illnesses, or ageing are all common causes.

Hypogonadism in men can cause a lower sex drive, trouble getting an erection, infertility, less muscle mass, tiredness, and a delay in or incomplete puberty. In women, it may show up as irregular or missing periods, infertility, reduced breast growth, and symptoms related to low oestrogen, like hot flashes or bone loss.
Diagnosis entails clinical assessment, hormonal tests (testosterone, oestrogen, LH, and FSH), and imaging studies as required. Early diagnosis is important to keep problems like osteoporosis and mental health issues from getting worse.

Hormone replacement therapy, like testosterone for men or oestrogen-progesterone therapy for women, is often part of treatment. What kind of treatment you get depends on what caused the problem, such as whether it is due to hormonal imbalances, age-related factors, or other health issues. Changes in lifestyle and treatment of related conditions, such as managing obesity or diabetes, are also very important for improving overall health outcomes in individuals undergoing hormone therapy.