FAQs

Thoughtful Man - Testosterone Replacement Therapy FAQs

Find Answers To Our Most Frequently Asked Questions About Testosterone and TRT

If you're worried about low testosterone levels, we're here to help. As a first step to feeling better, you can either book an appointment to see your GP or, alternatively, request an at-home blood test from Urban TRT. We will assess your levels and contact you to discuss your options.

Before you do this, please take a moment to read through the information below about testosterone and the treatment options available to you.

Can younger men have low testosterone?

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Yes.  While testosterone levels naturally decline with age, low testosterone can affect men of all ages.

Factors such as stress, poor diet, lack of exercise and certain medical conditions can lead to low testosterone levels in younger men.  TRT can help restore hormonal balance, improving quality of life, whatever your age.

How can I get a testosterone blood test in the UK?

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If you're concerned your testosterone levels might be low, you can book a simple at-home testosterone blood test through Urban TRT.  Our doctors can help you interpret the results and recommend the best steps to help you feel better.

What are the symptoms of low testosterone?

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Low testosterone levels in men can cause a wide range of symptoms, which may affect physical, mental, emotional, and sexual health.  Common signs include lack of energy, reduced muscle mass, low libido, erectile dysfunction and anxiety.

Take a look at our comprehensive list of the symptoms of low testosterone, and our ADAM questionnaire, to find out more.   A simple testosterone blood-test will then help you start on your journey to feeling better.

Symptoms of low testosterone in women typically include fatigue, weight gain, especially an increase in belly fat, decreased sex drive, vaginal dryness, thinning hair, loss of strength and more.

Do you have in-person TRT clinics at Urban TRT?

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Yes, we have dedicated in-person clinics located in Southampton and Croydon, where you can attend face-to-face consultations, assessments, and treatment reviews. For added flexibility and convenience, we also offer online TRT consultations for clients across the UK. This means you can begin or manage your TRT journey from the comfort of your home while still receiving expert, medically-supervised care.

Can I get TRT on the NHS?

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Yes it is possible, under certain circumstances, to access TRT on the NHS.   If you book an appointment to discuss possible low testosterone levels with your GP, they will first need to rule out any other causes for your symptoms.  These can include stress, depression, poor diet, lack of exercise and more.

If it is concluded that you do indeed have low testosterone, you may be sent for further testing.  The threshold for qualifying for a low testosterone diagnosis on the NHS is as low as 8.6 nmol/L for total testosterone.  In our experience, men can experience symptoms starting from far higher levels than this.  For example, loss of libido and low energy can be experienced from levels of 15 nmol/L.

If your GP decides to refer you for further testing by an endocrinologist, the average waiting time is reported to be around 18 weeks, but it can be far longer.

So, while you may be able to secure TRT on the NHS, the process is likely to be slow and challenging. By the time treatment begins, symptoms may have significantly affected your lifestyle.

With Urban TRT, your experience will be much faster and more personalised.  Contact us today to book a convenient at-home blood test.

Our fully qualified TRT specialists will follow up with a tailored treatment plan for your needs.

What are the treatment options for low testosterone?

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At Urban TRT we offer a full range of the latest testosterone replacement treatments.  These include injections, gels and oral tablets.  Book a call with our support team to find out more.

All our TRT medications are prescribed following two blood tests and a full consultation with our expert doctors.  You can buy TRT safely online at Urban TRT.

 

Do you offer testosterone for women?

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At this point, Urban TRT is not able to offer HRT treatments for low testosterone in women.  This may change in the future, however, as one of our Clinician Leads, Dr Lauren Airey, is experienced in the field of women's health.   Please submit an online enquiry and we will contact you should this treatment become available.

Do you offer TRT therapy online at Urban TRT?

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Yes, we offer a full online TRT service at Urban TRT. Our process includes a virtual consultation with one of our qualified medical professionals, followed by comprehensive blood testing that can be carried out at a partner clinic or with a home test kit. Once your results are reviewed, we’ll tailor a treatment plan to suit your individual hormone levels and symptoms. Medications can be prescribed and delivered discreetly to your door, and regular follow-ups are conducted online to ensure your therapy is safe and effective.

What should I expect when using a treatment for hair loss

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When starting any hair loss treatment, it’s important to remember that hair regrowth is a gradual process. During the first one to three months, noticeable changes may be minimal. However, patience is key—just as Rome wasn’t built in a day, achieving a fuller head of hair takes time.

By consistently using your treatment twice daily, you should begin to see a reduction in hair loss after three to six months, with new hair starting to grow. Initially, regrown hairs may be fine and light in colour, but over time, they should develop the same texture and thickness as your natural hair.

After six months or more, hair loss should slow significantly, and areas of thinning should become less noticeable. You may also see improved scalp coverage, with hair appearing stronger, thicker, and healthier.

Are your hair loss treatments suitable for everyone?

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Our treatments are designed for men aged 18 to 65 experiencing mild to moderate male pattern baldness.

A full list of precautions and warnings can be found in the Patient Information Leaflet or the Safety Information Page included with each treatment.  It’s essential to read this information carefully before using any hair loss treatment for the first time.  If you have any concerns, please discuss these with your prescribing doctor or the Urban TRT support team.

What are the potential side effects of hair loss treatments

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As with most medications, hair loss treatments may cause side effects, though not everyone will experience them. Being aware of potential side effects ensures you can use your treatment safely and effectively.

A comprehensive list of possible side effects can be found in the Patient Information Leaflet or the Safety Information Page provided with each treatment. Always read this information before starting a new treatment.

If you have any concerns about the treatment being offered, please discuss these with the prescribing doctor at Urban TRT.  Our experienced support team will also be happy to help.

How long do hair loss treatments take to work?

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The time it takes to see a reduction in hair loss and the regrowth of new hair depends on the type of treatment you choose. As hair growth is a naturally slow process, it usually takes a few months to notice any changes. This is normal, and the best results are usually observed after six months of treatment.

What happens if I stop using my hair loss treatment?

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If you discontinue treatment, any hair regrown during its use is likely to be lost within three to four months. For sustained results, ongoing treatment is recommended.

To support your hair regrowth journey, we provide monthly refills of your treatment, ensuring you never run out. By maintaining consistent use, you can preserve regrown hair and encourage continued hair growth.

What if I forget to use my hair loss treatment for a day?

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Missing a single day of treatment is not a cause for concern. While consistency is important for optimal results, it typically takes three to four months for regrown hair to be lost once treatment is stopped. Therefore, an occasional missed dose should not affect your overall progress.

Important: If you forget to use your treatment, do not take a double dose to compensate. Simply resume your regular schedule the following day.

Will my medication be sent to me automatically once I set up subscription with Urban TRT?

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No.  After the initial set up of your account and and dispatch of your medication, your payment will be taken automatically on a monthly basis.  This payment does not generate a new order of medication.  This is to ensure you always have the correct amount medication and the correct prescription for your needs.

We do not dispense and dispatch any medications automatically.  Please contact us to arrange your repeat prescription when needed.  Full details of how to do this will be supplied when you start your account with us.

Do I need to use hCG with my TRT prescription?

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We recommend that most patients on testosterone medication use hCG to maintain testicular function, fertility and avoid testicular shrinkage.

However, this is not mandatory and will be discussed with your doctor during your initial consultation.  Find out more about hCG.

What does my Urban TRT TRT Bundle include?

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All of our bundles contain:

  • Your prescribed medications and any ancillaries
  • Injection packs
  • Support from the medical admin team
  • Follow-up consultations with our doctors
  • All blood tests including clinic visits to have a nurse take your sample where needed.

Please note that the testosterone only bundles do not include HCG.

Am I able to switch to a different bundle?

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Yes.  You will be able to switch to a different TRT bundle if agreed with your Urban TRT doctor during a follow up consultation.

What blood tests are included in my bundle?

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The blood tests included are at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and then 12 months.

Following this you are required to take a blood test every 6 months.

What is not included in my bundle?

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Your Urban TRT TRT bundle does not include the following:

  • Any additional blood tests beyond the standard ones listed above.
  • If a blood test fails, we will provide a free replacement once. Any further retesting will require the purchase of both the test and a clinic visit.
  • Erectile dysfunction (ED) medication, such as Tadalafil.

Nurse visits can be requested at an additional cost of £30, if you would prefer that to visiting a clinic for your blood tests.

What are the ancillaries included in my TRT bundle?

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Ancillaries which may be prescribed include anti-oestrogen medications (aromatase inhibitors).  These will be prescribed if the doctor considers it necessary and they are included in the monthly subscription price.

Please note that hCG is only included in specific hCG packages.

How do I arrange a venous draw for my blood test?

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Your full hormone blood test (Blood Test 2) will require a venous draw, rather than a finger prick test.

We will help you to arrange this at a clinic local to you (either a Goodbody Clinic or your local Superdrug Clinic).   Alternatively you can choose to have a visit from a nurse to take your blood test in the comfort of your own home.  We will help you arrange this through our partner agency, Heim.

When you checkout to pay for your blood test, you will be offered the choice of which approach you want to take and will be charged accordingly.  Find out more about our prices for blood testing in the UK.

 

Is there a minimum subscription period?

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Yes.  Your subscription requires a minimum 4-month commitment.  This is due to the quantity of medication provided with your first order.

Can a nurse to carry out my blood test at home?

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Yes. If you would prefer to have your blood test carried out at home rather than visiting a local clinic, this can be arranged for an additional fee.

Nurse visits are charged at £65 for new patients and initial visits. Follow up visits for existing patients are charged at £30.

What are the side effects of TRT?

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TRT can significantly improve quality of life for individuals with low testosterone, particularly in energy, mood, and bone health. However, it requires careful monitoring to identify and treat potential side effects.

Two common side effects include testicular atrophy (shrinking of the testicles) and reduced fertility.   At Urban TRT, we address this risk by offering HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) and HMG (Human Menopausal Gonadotropin).  These hormones help maintain both the size and function of the testicles during treatment.

Some men may also experience increased oestrogen levels as testosterone is naturally converted into oestrogen by aromatase.

Higher oestrogen levels can cause water retention, tiredness, belly fat, poor erections, low libido, moodiness, gynaecomastia, muscle loss, and depression.  On the other hand, too little oestrogen can lead to low sex drive, belly fat, bone loss, and osteoporosis.

To maintain optimal hormone balance, we offer bespoke TRT plans with regular blood tests to monitor your progress.  If necessary, our doctors can prescribe aromatase inhibitors to reduce oestrogen and keep hormone levels balanced.

Consulting a reputable healthcare provider is essential to maximise benefits and minimise risks from TRT.  The doctors at Urban TRT are amongst the leading TRT practitioners in the UK, so you are in safe hands with us.

Can younger men have low testosterone?

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Yes.  While testosterone levels naturally decline with age, low testosterone can affect men of all ages.

Factors such as stress, poor diet, lack of exercise and certain medical conditions can lead to low testosterone levels in younger men.  TRT can help restore hormonal balance, improving quality of life, whatever your age.

Does TRT increase the risk of prostate cancer?

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Research does not support the claim that testosterone replacement therapy increases the risk of prostate cancer.  In fact, studies suggest that men with normal testosterone levels have a lower risk of of aggressive prostate cancer than those with low levels.

Proper medical supervisions during TRT ensures safety and mitigates any concerns.

Does testosterone make you angry?

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Balanced testosterone levels typically improve mood, reduce irritability and enhance overall emotional wellbeing.

Aggression is a difficult concept to measure accurately as it's subjective and personal.  That said, studies have shown that aggressive behaviour is more commonly linked to hormonal imbalances or misuse of testosterone, not properly managed TRT.

Can I get TRT on the NHS?

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Yes it is possible, under certain circumstances, to access TRT on the NHS.   If you book an appointment to discuss possible low testosterone levels with your GP, they will first need to rule out any other causes for your symptoms.  These can include stress, depression, poor diet, lack of exercise and more.

If it is concluded that you do indeed have low testosterone, you may be sent for further testing.  The threshold for qualifying for a low testosterone diagnosis on the NHS is as low as 8.6 nmol/L for total testosterone.  In our experience, men can experience symptoms starting from far higher levels than this.  For example, loss of libido and low energy can be experienced from levels of 15 nmol/L.

If your GP decides to refer you for further testing by an endocrinologist, the average waiting time is reported to be around 18 weeks, but it can be far longer.

So, while you may be able to secure TRT on the NHS, the process is likely to be slow and challenging. By the time treatment begins, symptoms may have significantly affected your lifestyle.

With Urban TRT, your experience will be much faster and more personalised.  Contact us today to book a convenient at-home blood test.

Our fully qualified TRT specialists will follow up with a tailored treatment plan for your needs.

Do I have to use injections for TRT?

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No, there are are topical options available if you prefer.  Gels, such as Testogel, are a convenient way to administer testosterone, which is absorbed through the skin into the blood stream after being rubbed in.  Your Urban TRT doctor will discuss your treatment preferences with you and the options available, and prescribe the most appropriate for your needs.

How long does it take for TRT to work?

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How quickly TRT works is different for each individual who is treated.  Some people will notice a slight improvement after their first TRT treatment, whilst in others it can take weeks or even months for the full effects to be felt.  But everyone who is treated does feel better eventually, so it's important to be patient.

Increased energy levels are often the first sign that the treatment is taking effect.  This is frequently coupled with improved mood, heightened concentration levels plus an improvement in morning erections.

Your Urban TRT doctors will monitor your progress and it's important that you let them know how you are feeling.  They will adjust your dose as needed to ensure you make a full recovery from the debilitating symptoms of low testosterone.

Why is a PSA test important before starting TRT?

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A prostate-specific antigen test (PSA) is always recommended before starting TRT, in order to provide a baseline level.   As a precaution, your PSA should checked again 6 - 12 weeks after starting therapy.  Please note, however, that research does not support the claim that TRT increases the risk of prostate cancer.  In fact, clinical studies have suggested that men with normal testosterone levels have a lower risk of aggressive prostate cancer than those with low levels.

At Urban TRT your health and wellbeing is always our top concern.  We provide proper medical supervision during your treatment to ensure your safety and mitigate any concerns you may have.

We offer PSA blood tests from our own partner laboratory, but blood tests from other regulated laboratories are accepted, provided they are recent and contain testosterone and PSA levels.

How long will I have to take TRT for?

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The benefits of TRT will stop once you stop taking the treatment.   It will be your decision how long you want to continue taking TRT for and whether you want to stay on the treatment for life.  Typically TRT is viewed as along-term commitment.

Although you may not want to rely on TRT indefinitely, it's important to understand that stopping treatment would mean a full return of your symptoms.

If you are considering discontinuing the treatment, we recommend a balanced TRT approach, combined with HCG.  This is the safest way to preserve your natural testosterone production.

Adopting a healthier lifestyle can also support your testosterone production and enhance wellbeing. We recommend eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, getting quality sleep and losing any excess weight.

Before stopping TRT, consult your Urban TRT doctor for a safe, controlled reduction plan

 

Who shouldn't take TRT?

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Certain individuals should avoid testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) due to potential health risks.

TRT is not advised in individuals with the following conditions:

  • Active prostate cancer
  • Male breast cancer
  • Elevated red blood cell levels (haematocrit >54%)
  • Severe, chronic heart failure.

If you are planning to start a family, you should discuss this with your doctor, who will be able to prescribe medication to protect your fertility.

How low do my testosterone levels need to be for me to be eligible for TRT?

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Generally, TRT treatment is offered to individuals whose testosterone levels fall below 15 u/nmol as an indication for therapy.

Do you offer Nebido testosterone injections?

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Nebido is a type of TRT injection that releases testosterone into the body gradually over a period of time.  These treatments are known as a depot injection and are offered by the NHS in the UK to men with qualifying levels of low testosterone.

We do not currently offer this particular treatment at Urban TRT as in our experience, it does not result in steady testosterone levels.  Book a blood test to understand your own testosterone levels and discuss your TRT options with one of our doctors.

Can low testosterone cause erectile dysfunction?

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Low testosterone can have a big impact on a man’s body; lowering sexual desire and decreasing the chance of having spontaneous or sexual-related erections.

This is because testosterone can influence erections on two levels. In your central nervous system (CNS), testosterone can push your CNS to release neurotransmitters that help you achieve an erection.

Similarly, testosterone can also stimulate your spinal nerves which result in changes in your blood vessels, which can help you achieve and maintain an erection.

Although there are some links that would suggest low levels of testosterone can have an impact on your ability to achieve an erection, it’s not always the case. Some men are able to have normal erections, even if their testosterone levels fall well below the average.

People with low testosterone levels often experience other health conditions, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes, which can all also play a role in erectile dysfunction.

Find out more about the causes of erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.

What is the optimum level of testosterone for men?

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Some people mistakenly think that it's always better for me to have higher testosterone levels.  In fact, there is no ‘correct’ level of testosterone for a man because every patient is completely different and a range of factors determine what’s ‘normal’ for you.  Appropriate levels of testosterone are shown as a range and they are also age dependent.  So for example, University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust states the following reference range for
males aged 18–49 years: 8.64–29.0 nmol/L.

It is a myth that higher testosterone levels are always better.  Although high levels may be good for some people, for others they may cause a range of side effects – for example, back pain, acne, excessive body hair or headaches.

This is why it's vital to consult with a fully qualified doctor rather than simply buying testosterone online.  At Urban TRT our medical team will devise a tailored testosterone replacement protocol, targeted to your own particular needs.

Is TRT only for men who struggle to get an erection?

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This isn’t true, TRT can be used to tackle a range of symptoms that come with testosterone deficiency including hair loss, insomnia and low energy levels.

Helping improve libido and reducing the impact of erectile dysfunction are an important benefit that comes with TRT, but they are not the only reason why men would choose to go on this type of hormone replacement treatment.

Learn more about TRT here.