Hypogonadism
Treatments
Hormone replacement therapy has proven to be effective treatment for hypogonadism in men and pre-menopausal women.
Estrogen may be administered in the form of a patch or pill. Testosterone can be given by a patch, a product soaked in by the gums, a gel or by injection.
For women who have not had their uterus removed, a combination of estrogen and progesterone is often recommended to decrease the chance of developing endometrial cancer. Low-dose testosterone may be added for women with hypogonadism who have a low sex drive.
Other hormones may be prescribed to restore fertility in men and women.
If the condition is caused by a pituitary tumor, treatment will include surgery to remove the tumor.
UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.