Hormone replacement therapy is often seen as a remedy reserved for women as they go through menopause. However, men can undergo hormone replacement therapy as they age, too. The hormones used are different — men are given testosterone, whereas women are given the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. Since male hormone replacement is not as well known or common as female hormone replacement, some people have the following misconceptions about the treatment.

1. It's only for men who have reproductive problems.

You may figure that since you are in good overall health and have healthy testicles, there is no need for you to take hormone replacement medications. But testosterone supplements are not only for men with "problems." They can also be prescribed to men who are simply aging and, as a result of that aging, have lower testosterone levels. If you're in your 50s or 60s, male hormone therapy is something to think about, even if your health is top-notch by all common standards.

2. Hormone replacement is just for your sex drive.

Perhaps because testosterone is produced in the testes, most people associate it with sex. And indeed, taking testosterone supplements as you grow older will help enhance or preserve your sex drive. But testosterone is so much more than a sex hormone. It also helps maintain your muscle mass, improve your mood, maintain your bone density, and increase red blood cell production. Don't let the stereotypes related to sex and sex hormones keep you from exploring this option.

3. Once you start testosterone, you can't stop.

There seems to be a myth or rumor that testosterone supplements are dangerous because you'll get addicted and need to keep using them. It's true that once men start supplementing testosterone, they usually continue because they like the results. But there is no psychological or medical reason why you'd have to continue. These supplements are not addictive. If you experience side effects or simply decide you do not want to be on testosterone anymore, you can stop taking it.

4. Testosterone will make you overly aggressive.

You've probably heard of bodybuilders and athletes getting into fights when taking testosterone because it made them overly aggressive. Understand that this only really happens if you take too much testosterone. Your doctor will work with you to decide on a dose that is safe and that will benefit you without causing too many side effects, like aggression.

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