The first visit is mostly listening. What changed, when it changed, how it affects your work, training, sleep and relationships. I also ask about medical history, medications and supplements, alcohol, sleep quality and whether you are planning to father children in the near future, because that answer changes the options considerably.
Laboratory work is ordered based on that conversation rather than from a fixed panel handed to everyone. When results come back, we go through what they mean, what they do not mean, and what is still unexplained.
Sometimes the honest conclusion is that testosterone is not the problem. That is a useful result too, and it usually points toward something else that can be addressed.
Risks and limitations
- An evaluation is not a commitment to treatment, and not everyone evaluated will be a candidate.
- Some men need additional testing or referral before any decision can be made.
- Results can take time; a careful answer is better than a fast one.