How Hyper- and Hypogonadism Are Impacting Your Fertility

Medical conditions known as hyper- and hypogonadism can adversely affect both male and female fertility levels. Both of these conditions can cause specific physical manifestations, but there are methods that can be employed to help stabilize these ailments.

Hyper- and Hypogonadism Defined

These conditions occur when the bodies of afflicted individuals either fail to produce and secrete sufficient quantities of reproductive and sexual hormones, or they do not synthesize excessive quantities of such substances.

In men, the chief reproductive hormone is testosterone. This chemical, which is primarily produced in the testicles, is responsible for helping the body execute several vital functions such as bone and muscle growth, sexual organ function, libido (sex drive) stimulation, red blood cell production, fertility, and mood balancing.

For women, the key reproductive hormones include estrogen and progesterone. These substances stimulate reproductive organs, the ovaries, and enable women to bear children.

Hypergonadism is where there are abnormally high levels of testosterone or estrogen within the body. Hypogonadism occurs when the body does not produce enough of these sex hormones.

Specific Causes

In many instances, hyper– and hypogonadism can be attributed to disorders of or damage to the sex organs or other hormone-producing structures in the body. Excessive or limited testosterone production could be attributed to various autoimmune diseases, genetic flaws, infections, the use of specific drugs, weight fluctuations, diet, lifestyle habits, and exposure to environmental toxins and allergens.

In other instances, especially regarding diminished hormone production and systemic concentration, the aging process could be the principal factor. As men age (particularly after they reach age 40), their bodies gradually produce and secrete less testosterone. Women who reach their late forties or early fifties experience a natural life phenomenon known as menopause. During this stage, the ovaries synthesize decreasing amounts of estrogen and progesterone until the structures eventually cease hormone production altogether. When this occurs, women no longer experience menstrual cycles and are no longer able to bear children.

Associated Symptoms

Diminished systemic concentrations of sexual and reproductive hormones could precipitate the onset of symptoms like the loss of body hair, accumulation of fat, weight gain, bone deformities, mood fluctuations, decreased libido, fatigue, and cognitive function disturbances, such as memory and concentration challenges. Excessive hormonal production can result in increased growth of body hair, skin problems like acne, mood fluctuations, increased sex drive, aggressive behavior, and extreme muscle and bone growth (especially in women).

Infertility and Reproductive Hormone Imbalances

Both increased and diminished systemic concentrations of reproductive hormones can have a potentially adverse effect on both male and female fertility. In men, these chemical imbalances can impact issues like sexual organ size and function, as well as sperm issues including count, health and motility (the sperm’s speed and agility when moving). Too much or too little estrogen can have a profound effect on the ovaries. Interrupted ovarian function can exact a ripple effect on other reproductive organs and make conception significantly more difficult for affected women.

Overcoming Reproductive Hormonal Irregularities

The first step in treating these conditions is identifying the specific underlying cause. Should a hormonal imbalance be precipitated by an illness, the condition might be alleviated through various treatment methods, such as medication or surgery.

However, if such issues are brought forth by aging or menopause, then lifestyle changes, exercise, or ingesting natural dietary supplements containing hormone-balancing properties might be employed. Additionally, in instances of significant hormonal deficiencies, hormone-replacement therapy might be necessary. Keep in mind, this therapeutic protocol comes with health risks and should be carefully weighed by both physician and patient before beginning such treatment.