Are you worried that your
partner or loved one might have low testosterone?
Low testosterone can affect your relationships and you may not always understand what your partner is going through. It is important that you remind them that you are there to support them.
THEY SAY
“I don’t have much energy anymore”
YOU MAY THINK
“They’re just making excuses”
WHAT MAY BE THE ISSUE
Low testosterone can affect energy levels and so they may not join in as much in activities as they did before.
THEY SAY
“I don’t have the sex drive I used to”
YOU MAY THINK
“Maybe they have erectile dysfunction”
WHAT MAY BE THE ISSUE
Low testosterone and erectile dysfunction are two different medical conditions with different symptoms. Most patients with erectile dysfunction do not have low testosterone. Low testosterone affects interest in sex, as well as the ability to perform sexually, whereas erectile dysfunction only affects the ability to perform sexually.
THEY SAY
“I feel depressed/grumpy for no reason”
YOU MAY THINK
“They’re in a slump and needs to snap out of it”
WHAT MAY BE THE ISSUE
Low testosterone can cause mood changes. Many people are unaware that low testosterone is a medical condition with symptoms that can affect someone physically and emotionally. They may not want to talk to their healthcare professional (HCP), loved one/partner or friends, leaving them feeling isolated and depressed.
THEY SAY
“I must be getting old”
YOU MAY THINK
“They must be getting old”
WHAT MAY BE THE ISSUE
Low testosterone can lead to muscle weakness making everyday tasks, as well as exercise, feel more difficult than usual.
How can you support your partner if you think they may have low testosterone?
Your partner may be reluctant to talk about their symptoms with you. They may feel embarrassed or less masculine.
It is important that you reassure your partner and let them know that they do not have to feel this way. Low testosterone can be diagnosed and appropriately managed and their HCP is there to help
How can I start a conversation with my partner about their testosterone levels?
Low testosterone can cause tiredness, depression and a reduced interest in sex. If you think your loved one is experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, it’s important that you sensitively share your concerns and reassure them that you are there to support them and that help is available.
- Ask them if they’re aware of the symptoms of low testosterone. Explain how they can affect mood, energy and sex drive. Be prepared to talk about the signs and symptoms of low testosterone.
- Explain that these feelings may be caused by a medical condition and that the symptoms can be mild or similar to those caused by other conditions.
- Let him know that low testosterone is relatively common, affecting approximately 8–20% of men across the globe.
- Be understanding of the fact that it might be difficult for him to come to terms with the idea of having low testosterone. The symptoms can be a source of anger and frustration.
- Encourage him to get on the phone to make an appointment to see his HCP. Remind him that his HCP is there to help.
- Encourage him to tell his HCP about all of his symptoms and ask whether they may be due to low testosterone. Offer to go with him to his appointment, if you think it would help.