Before the treatment starts

If you are over 45, your prostate will be examined before the testosterone treatment begins. This examination requires special expertise and is generally carried out by a urologist. The examination involves a rectal palpation of the prostate and a laboratory test to establish the level of prostate specific antigen (PSA) in the blood. PSA is a substance produced by the prostate gland. The PSA level gives information about abnormal processes in the prostate. If necessary, a transrectal ultrasound is also carried out.

The examination of the prostate is important because testosterone can stimulate an existing tumour. However, according to current knowledge, testosterone treatment itself does not lead to the development of prostate cancer. You can expect your doctor to regularly examine your prostate for reassurance, while the testosterone treatment is in progress.

Since testosterone leads to an increased formation of blood components e.g. red blood cells, a blood count has to be conducted and the production of red blood cells has to be monitored regularly throughout the treatment. This helps to avoid a particularly high level of haematocrit, which increases the danger of blood clots.

If your doctor plans to start you on a transdermal testosterone treatment, he should check whether your skin condition is suitable for topical application.