If you’re feeling more tired than you used to, less motivated, or noticing changes in libido, mood, strength, or body shape, you may be wondering about “andropause.” At Levitas, we see this often — and the good news is that there are clear, safe, specialist-led ways to assess what’s going on and help you feel like yourself again.
“Andropause” is a common term for the natural age-related decline in testosterone and other supportive hormones in men. Clinically, what matters is simple: do your symptoms match low testosterone, and do your blood tests confirm it? TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) can be genuinely life-changing when it’s used for the right reasons, prescribed by a true andropause specialist, and carefully monitored over time.
What are Andropause Symptoms?
Testosterone supports far more than sex drive. When levels fall, men can experience a cluster of symptoms such as:
- Reduced libido or fewer morning erections
- Erectile difficulties
- Low energy, fatigue, “flatness”
- Brain fog or reduced mental sharpness
- Irritability, lowered mood, or anxiety
- Reduced muscle mass or strength
- Increased belly fat, slower recovery after exercise
- Poor sleep
- Loss of confidence or drive
These symptoms are real — but they’re not specific to testosterone alone. Sleep apnoea, stress, excess weight, thyroid issues, depression, alcohol, and certain medications can all mimic andropause. That’s why a proper assessment is essential, rather than assuming testosterone is the sole cause.
How Specialists Diagnose Andropause
A true TRT specialist doesn’t start with a prescription. We start with clarity.
1) Correct testosterone testing
Testosterone naturally fluctuates across the day. For accurate results, we test:
- Early morning (usually 7–11am)
- Often fasted
- Repeated on at least two separate mornings
A single low reading can be misleading if you slept badly, trained hard, drank alcohol the night before, or were unwell. Repeat testing protects you from an incorrect diagnosis — and from starting TRT unnecessarily.
2) Looking at the hormone “pattern,” not just one number
We don’t just check total testosterone. We also assess:
- Free testosterone (the active portion)
- SHBG (a carrier protein that affects availability)
- LH and FSH (signals from the brain to the testes)
This shows why testosterone is low and helps tailor treatment safely. It also helps us spot men who may benefit more from lifestyle or supportive hormonal strategies rather than straight replacement.
3) Whole-body assessment
Specialist care checks the wider picture too: body composition, sleep quality, metabolic health, cardiovascular risk, fertility goals, and lifestyle drivers. TRT works best — and safest — when these pieces are addressed alongside hormone restoration.
Advanced Blood Tests for TRT and Andropause
Before treatment, Levitas uses a detailed panel to make sure TRT is right for you and safe over the long term. This typically includes:
Hormone testing
- PTotal testosterone (repeat)
- PFree testosterone (calculated)
- PSHBG
- PLH, FSH
- POestradiol (when clinically useful)
- PProlactin if indicated
Safety and health markers
- PFull blood count (especially haemoglobin/haematocrit)
- PPSA (prostate screening depending on age/risk)
- PHbA1c / glucose and insulin markers
- PLiver and kidney function
- PThyroid panel if fatigue/weight suggests it
- PKey nutrients (Vitamin D, B12, ferritin) when relevant
This depth of testing is what separates specialist andropause treatment from quick-fix TRT.
When to consider TRT for Andropause Symptoms
You may be a candidate for testosterone replacement therapy for andropause if:
- PYour symptoms fit low-T patterns
- PYour testosterone is repeatedly low or borderline, with low free T
- PWe’ve checked and addressed correctable causes (sleep, stress, weight, alcohol, medications)
- PThere are no clear contraindications
- PTRT aligns with your goals — including fertility plans
For men who are borderline on tests but clearly symptomatic, a specialist-supervised TRT trial may be appropriate. The key is doing it carefully and methodically, not rushing.
Benefits of Specialist-Managed TRT
When testosterone deficiency is confirmed, TRT can support:
Sexual wellbeing
- Stronger libido
- Improved erection quality
- Better sexual satisfaction
Energy and mood
- Increased vitality
- Better motivation and confidence
- More stable mood and mental clarity
Body composition and performance
- Improved muscle mass and strength
- Reduced visceral (belly) fat
- Better exercise recovery
Long-term resilience
- Support for bone density and physical robustness over time
Most men notice benefits gradually over weeks to months — not overnight. Good TRT is about restoring you to your normal, and then fine-tuning until you feel steady and well.
Risks of TRT — and how specialists reduce them
TRT is usually very safe when prescribed properly, but it must be monitored. Key risks include:
- Raised haematocrit (thicker blood)
Managed by regular blood checks and dose adjustments.
- Prostate monitoring
TRT doesn’t “cause” prostate cancer, but we screen and monitor PSA appropriately.
- Fertility suppression
External testosterone can reduce sperm production. If fertility matters to you, we plan around it.
- Oestradiol imbalance
Some men convert more T to oestradiol. Specialists adjust dosing carefully rather than over-medicating.
- Acne, fluid retention, hair-loss acceleration, sleep changes
Usually dose-related and manageable with experienced oversight.
In short: the risks are not ignored — they’re actively prevented.
TRT in London & Surrey — plus online consultations and home testing
Levitas provides discreet, medically rigorous TRT for andropause across London, Surrey, and nationwide via online care.
Our flagship clinics include:
- Levitas London – Mayfair (flagship clinic)
- HVN – Knightsbridge (partner clinic)
- Levitas Surrey – Esher
- Levitas Surrey – Guildford
For patients who prefer convenience or live further away, we also offer:
- Online consultations with TRT specialists
- Home hormone testing, so your assessment can start from the comfort of your own home
- A seamless pathway into in-clinic care if needed for follow-up or treatment optimisation
Whether you want face-to-face care in Mayfair, Knightsbridge, Esher or Guildford, or a fully remote pathway, your care remains specialist-led and carefully monitored.
FAQ
Is TRT the best andropause treatment?
TRT is highly effective when testosterone deficiency is confirmed. If symptoms come from sleep issues, stress, weight gain, or thyroid changes, those may need addressing first.
How do specialists diagnose andropause?
A specialist uses repeat morning testosterone tests plus free testosterone, SHBG, LH and FSH to confirm deficiency and understand the cause.
When should I consider TRT for andropause symptoms?
If you have consistent symptoms and repeated low or borderline testosterone with low free T, after health and lifestyle drivers are evaluated.
What are the benefits of TRT for andropause?
Most men report improvements in libido, energy, mood stability, muscle strength, body composition, and long-term bone and metabolic health.
What are the risks of testosterone replacement therapy for andropause?
Potential risks include raised haematocrit, fertility suppression, oestradiol imbalance, and prostate monitoring needs. Specialist follow-up significantly reduces these risks.
Do I need advanced blood tests for TRT?
Yes. Advanced testing keeps TRT safe by checking blood thickness, prostate markers, metabolic health, and hormone balance before and during treatment.
Can I start TRT with an online consultation and home testing?
Yes. Levitas offers online TRT consultations and home testing, followed by a specialist review and a personalised plan.
Where can I get TRT in London or Surrey?
You can be seen at our flagship clinics in London Mayfair, HVN Knightsbridge, and Surrey locations in Esher and Guildford, with ongoing monitoring.
