Hello all, new to all of this.

happysalesman

New Member
Hi everyone!

Like the title states, I'm pretty néw to TRT and everything involved with it, so I'll apologize in advance if I ask some dumb questions.

I'm 33, and for the last few years (especially since my son was born) had been steadily showing increasing symptoms of low T. I had blood test done a year ago and I don't remember my specific numbers, but I was right on the bottom edge of what was considered "normal" for my age. This obviously wasn't where I wanted to be, so I started making changes. Revamped my diet to one that's much healthier, started exercising, etc.

Now, a year later, I'm 40 lbs lighter and in much better shape, though my symptoms haven't really improved. I had another blood draw this morning, and the results are identical to last years (though now I remember the numbers).

Total T: 366
Shbg: 28.6
Free T: 9.86

To say I'm disappointed is an understatement. I'm of course just above the limit to where my insurance would cover it, and despite all the work I've put in I still haven't seen an improvement.

I'm here hoping to find some ideas or advice from everyone, and share in the stories and any experience I might gain.

Look forward to talking with everyone!
 
I was in a somewhat similar boat in my early 30’s. Went through a period where I was constantly tired, unmotivated, up and down from a well-being perspective, etc. Got tested and had levels near the bottom of the range. My doctor gave me the usual “you’re within the normal range”, “you’ll get prostate cancer if you go on trt”, and all the other bullsh!t. At that time I preferred to avoid trt anyway(though not for the reasons he gave), so I tried to clean up my diet, cut out alcohol, get more serious with workouts, etc. I ended up resolving my symptoms but didnt get tested afterwards to compare levels.

Fast forward to 39 and I had been slowing down a little for a few years. Libido was good, workouts were ok but could’ve been better. Motivation, well-being and brain fog got kind of bad at times. I decided to go ahead and get tested again with the intentions of probably just going the trt route. Total test was ok(in the 500s I think) but free t was near the bottom of the range (around 11-12 I think).

Now I’ve been on trt for three years and have a great protocol. Not really sure what kind of advice you’re looking for, but as you’ve probably already seen you aren’t going to have much luck with your GP unless you’re looking for an anti-anxiety pill, an antidepressant, a blood pressure pill, or a statin.
 

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TRT Hormone Predictor Widget

TRT Hormone Predictor

Predict estradiol, DHT, and free testosterone levels based on total testosterone

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer

This tool provides predictions based on statistical models and should NOT replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your TRT protocol.

ℹ️ Input Parameters

Normal range: 300-1000 ng/dL

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Enter your total testosterone value to see predictions

Results will appear here after calculation

Understanding Your Hormones

Estradiol (E2)

A form of estrogen produced from testosterone. Important for bone health, mood, and libido. Too high can cause side effects; too low can affect well-being.

DHT

Dihydrotestosterone is a potent androgen derived from testosterone. Affects hair growth, prostate health, and masculinization effects.

Free Testosterone

The biologically active form of testosterone not bound to proteins. Directly available for cellular uptake and biological effects.

Scientific Reference

Lakshman KM, Kaplan B, Travison TG, Basaria S, Knapp PE, Singh AB, LaValley MP, Mazer NA, Bhasin S. The effects of injected testosterone dose and age on the conversion of testosterone to estradiol and dihydrotestosterone in young and older men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2010 Aug;95(8):3955-64.

DOI: 10.1210/jc.2010-0102 | PMID: 20534765 | PMCID: PMC2913038

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