Testosterone is the male hormone responsible for sexual function and desire.
A drop in Testosterone may lead to various symptoms. This includes low libido and weight gain.
It may also contribute to trouble getting an erection or Erectile Dysfunction (ED).
So, can low Testosterone cause ED? This article discusses the link between Testosterone and ED.
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The link between Testosterone and Erectile Dysfunction
Source: GajusTestosterone is a male hormone produced by the testicles. Low Testosterone levels result from the insufficient production of Testosterone by the testicles.
Testosterone is the hormone responsible for sexual desire. It contributes to erectile function as erections occur when there is sexual stimulation.
But the relationship between Testosterone and ED is complex. Some men with low Testosterone still experience healthy erections.
Does low Testosterone cause ED
The symptoms of low Testosterone may be physical, mental, or sexual. The sexual symptoms of low Testosterone include:
- Low sexual desire
- Fewer sexually stimulated erections
- Fewer spontaneous erections
Erectile Dysfunction may be a symptom of low Testosterone (low T). Research suggests that 1 in 3 men with ED may also have low T levels.
Not all people with low T have trouble with erections. Besides, people with high Testosterone levels may also develop ED.
Thus, low Testosterone is not a direct cause of ED. But it can contribute to ED in the following ways:
Low sexual desire: Men get erections when they experience sexual arousal. Low T might decrease desire and make it more difficult to become aroused to achieve an erection.
Stress: Low Testosterone frequently causes Anxiety and stress. As stress is a cause of ED, low T can hinder your ability to achieve an erection during sex.
Fatigue: Low levels of Testosterone may cause feelings of tiredness and fatigue. This could lower your desire to engage in sexual activity.
Weight gain: Fatigue and lack of physical activity due to low levels of Testosterone can increase body weight. It could put you at a greater risk for ED.
Don’t wait until it’s too late; know all about the complications caused by abnormal testosterone levels. Read What Complications Can Abnormal Testosterone Level Cause?
High Testosterone and Erectile Dysfunction
High Testosterone levels are not generally a cause of Erectile Dysfunction.
If you experience ED despite having a high Testosterone level, there may be another cause. In that case, you should consult a doctor for medical advice.
But people who take Testosterone unlawfully may experience ED with other symptoms.
Excess Testosterone converts into Estrogen in your body. The rise of Estrogen may lead to Erectile Dysfunction.
ED with normal Testosterone levels
Some people with normal Testosterone levels may also experience ED. In this case, ED may have developed due to a different cause.
Your doctor may not prescribe Testosterone unless you experience other symptoms or signs of low T, like reduced sexual desire.
Boosting Testosterone levels does not always improve your erections.
Will Testosterone help with ED
If you have low Testosterone and experience, you may try testosterone replacement therapy. You may benefit from combining Testosterone therapy with oral PDE5 inhibitor ED pills.
But Testosterone therapy may only help people with mild to moderate ED. It may not work for people with severe ED.
If you have a severe case of Erectile Dysfunction, you should consult a doctor.
How to increase Testosterone levels
Source: Getty imagesLow Testosterone may or may not contribute to Erectile Dysfunction. It may lead to mental, physical, and sexual issues.
It may only help to improve your Testosterone levels. Some natural ways of increasing Testosterone include:
- Maintaining a healthy diet rich in proteins, carbs, and fats
- Getting plenty of sleep
- Managing stress
- Working out and lifting weights
- Treat underlying health issues
The bottom line
Can low Testosterone cause ED? Erectile Dysfunction may be a common symptom of low Testosterone.
But Testosterone does not directly cause ED. It may lead to physical, mental, and sexual symptoms contributing to ED.
Some people with low Testosterone may have no problems with their erectile function. Meanwhile, people with normal or high testosterone levels may also experience ED.
If you have low Testosterone and Erectile Dysfunction, you should seek medical advice. Your doctor will prescribe the ideal treatment for your condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can too much Testosterone cause ED?
High Testosterone levels are not a known cause of Erectile Dysfunction.
If you are experiencing ED with high levels of Testosterone, you should consult a doctor.
You likely developed ED due to a different cause.
Will Viagra work with low Testosterone?
Viagra may not work well for people with low Testosterone levels. Your doctor may recommend both Viagra and Testosterone replacement therapy to treat ED.
Do I have ED or low Testosterone?
Having low Testosterone is different from Erectile Dysfunction.
Low T is the insufficient production of the male hormone Testosterone by the testicles.
Erectile dysfunction is the inability to obtain an erection.
