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What Kind of Doctor Treats Hypogonadism?

Because hypogonadism is a deficiency in hormones that is not restricted to men, diagnosis and treatment, according to experts at the Mayo Clinic, can involve more than one type of doctor. They suggest beginning with your general practitioner to review symptoms, and then referral to an endocrinologist (hormone glands specialist) for testing and treatment if necessary.

  1. Diagnosis and treatment for women

    • Obstetricians or gynecologists often diagnose hypogonadism in women.

      MedlinePlus.com, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, indicates hypogonadism can create a fertility issue in women, so an obstetrician, gynecologist or fertility specialist may actually diagnose the problem. In some cases, hormone therapy can be prescribed, while other physicians may refer patients to an endocrinologist for verification and treatment.

    Diagnosis and treatment for men

    • Another source for treatment is a urologist.

      The American Association of Retired People (AARP) website lists urology specialists as a source for male hypogonadism information, diagnosis and treatment.

    Symptoms

    • If hypogonadism is caused by a tumor, headaches can occur.

      MedlinePlus reports that symptoms in both men and women with hypogonadism include lower levels of gender-specific hormones (estrogen & testosterone). The lower levels typically cause underdeveloped body hair, lack of muscle tone and the formation of breasts in males; and limited or no menstruation, extra body hair and hot flashes in females. In cases where a tumor exists, headaches and vision loss can occur.

    Causes

    • Medical conditions of the brain can contribute to hypogonadism.

      Causes of hypogonadism, according to MedlinePlus are improper reproductive organ development before birth (this can be genetic or from a medical condition), improper brain function in the area that controls the reproductive organs, or a tumor in the reproductive control center of the brain.

    Treatment

    • Hormone treatment comes in a variety of forms.

      Hormone replacement therapy, listed by the Mayo Clinic as typical treatment for hypogonadism, comes in a variety of forms, including gel rubbed on the skin, intramuscular injections every two weeks, a patch worn on the skin and a dental product that adheres to the the gums above the teeth.

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