Hormone Replacement Therapy with Injections

Hermann Aesthetics & Wellness has many options to treat hormone imbalance including Testosterone and HCG injections. These options can be used alone or in combination with other methods. Injections are more commonly used in hormone replacement therapy for men but can be used for women as well if the provider believes it would be beneficial.

Testosterone Injections

Testosterone is a male hormone that both men and women need for hormonal balance. For men if their testosterone level is low a provider may suggest testosterone injections. Some providers give these to patients’ in the buttocks muscle in the office or teach patients’ how to self-inject in the thigh muscle. Most common side effects of testosterone therapy injections are but not limited to acne, increased facial or body hair, headaches, breast swelling and tenderness, anxiety, male-pattern baldness, and changes in sex drive. There also may be numbness, tingling, pain and/or swelling at the injection site. Testosterone injections can improve symptoms of erectile dysfunction, increase sex drive, increase sperm count, improve mood, increase lean muscle mass, lower weight, and increase energy. Those with heart disease, sleep apnea, or high red blood cell counts may need extra monitoring if using testosterone injections. Testosterone injections can increase certain risks including but not limited to liver problems, heart problems, heart attacks, stroke, blood clots, worsening of pre-existing prostate tumors, exacerbate prostate cancer, and cause benign enlargement of the prostate.

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) Injections

Giving hCG injections to men can help the body increase testosterone levels and sperm production. These injections can help in testosterone deficiency and infertility. Using hCG with testosterone decreases side effects caused by testosterone therapy alone and can improve sexual function if testosterone alone does not help with this symptom. hCG should not be used in men with prostate cancer, certain brain cancers or uncontrolled thyroid disease. Those with heart disease, congestive heart failure, kidney disease, seizures, asthma, and migraines should speak with their provider to determine if hCG is right for them. Most common side effects of hCG injections are but not limited to headaches, irritability, restlessness, fatigue, depression, swelling, breast enlargement, GI effects, weight changes, and shortness of breath. There also may be numbness, tingling, pain and/or swelling at the injection site. In rare cases hCG can cause blood clots, allergic reactions, and anaphylactic reactions.

What should I expect during an appointment?

During your initial hormone therapy appointment, the provider will take a health history, perform a physical exam, and ask your goals. Then blood work will be order for testosterone levels and to measure red blood cells. Testosterone injections can increase red blood cell counts, which can be dangerous and must be monitored during treatment. It is also important to be screened for prostate cancer before and during treatment. Dr. Hermann or one of her staff will perform the screening or ensure that you have had it done prior to initiation of testosterone therapy. After the provider discusses the risks and benefits of treatment, you and the provider will determine the best method for you to administer these hormones.

Our providers and staff are here for you to answer any questions and schedule you a consultation. We also offer hormone replacement therapy in the form of pellets, creams, patches, vaginal inserts, pills, and troches. Call our office to make an appointment in Tampa (813) 902-9559 or St. Petersburg (727) 278-3992.