Male hypogonadism is a condition in which the body doesn't produce enough of the hormone testosterone. Testosterone is important in the development of male characteristics during puberty, according to the MayoClinic.com. A male can be born with hypogonadism, or it can develop later in life. Problems in the testes themselves or problems within the pituitary gland, which controls the production of testosterone, can cause low testosterone levels, according to the Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center website. Side effects of low testosterone levels depend on when the condition occurs.
Ambiguous Sexual Characteristics at Birth
If the levels of low testosterone occur during the development of the male fetus, the growth of the sex organs--both internal and external--may be impacted, according to the MayoClinic.com. The child may have ambiguous external sex organs, female genitals or undeveloped male genitals. The sex of the child also may not be obvious at birth.
Stunted Masculine Development During Puberty
According to the MayoClinic.com, low levels of testosterone during puberty may stunt growth and development in young boys. These boys may not develop much muscle mass or grow typical body hair. The voice may not deepen and the penis and testicles may not develop completely as in boys with normal testosterone levels. Some boys with low testosterone may have long arms and legs in comparison with the size of the torso. If the testosterone deficiency is diagnosed early and the boy receives testosterone supplementation, these symptoms may be avoided.
Sexual Side Effects in Adults
Low levels of testosterone can also occur as part of the aging process in men. In adult men, the side effects of low testosterone levels include a decreased sex drive, difficulties with erections, and problems with fertility, according to The Hormone Foundation.Testosterone supplementation in these men can improve these side effects.
Loss of Male Physical Attributes in Adults
Some men develop breast tissue and lose muscle mass due to low levels of testosterone. According to the MayoClinic.com, these men may also experience a decrease in body hair growth and facial hair growth. The testes of these men may also shrink in size, according to The Hormone Foundation. Supplementation with testosterone may help correct some of these changes.
Emotional Changes
Adult men who have low testosterone levels may also develop symptoms that are similar to the symptoms that occur in women during menopause, according to the MayoClinic.com. These symptoms can include hot flashes, irritability and depression. Testosterone supplementation can improve these side effects, as well.
