This website has been developed by Besins Healthcare (UK) Ltd.

This website has separate sections for healthcare professionals (containing promotional information), and patients who have been prescribed Testogel® (testosterone) within the UK.

Please confirm that:

This website is provided for patients prescribed Testogel® in the UK by Besins Healthcare (UK) Ltd.

Talking about testosterone deficiency (TD)

Why talk about TD?

Being diagnosed with TD does not make you less of a man. In fact, a diagnosis helps set you on the road to treating the condition. By sharing your concerns with your doctor, partner and friends they can help support you through your treatment.

Talking about your diagnosis

It may seem obvious to you that you’re struggling with symptoms of TD, but it may not be so clear to those around you. Speaking about your diagnosis will allow others to understand how you are feeling and how they can help.

Talking to your healthcare staff

It’s normal to feel embarrassed, especially if low libido/sex drive is one of your complaints. But remember, healthcare professionals are there to help you and will never make judgements based on your condition. If it makes you more comfortable, there’s no need to tell the receptionist at your doctor’s office that you have TD if you don’t want to. You can wait for the doctor before you go into more detail about your symptoms.1

Talking to your partner

Sometimes talking to your partner about serious issues can be difficult and you can end up putting it off, which isn’t good for either of you. It’s helpful to prepare beforehand so you can be confident in explaining TD and your treatment to your partner.

Starting the conversation

Starting the conversation

Recognise that avoidance won’t work2,3

Depending on the cause of your TD, you may be using Testogel® as a long-term treatment. Therefore, this is something that you should discuss with your partner as soon as you can.

Choose the right time to talk2,3

Plan to have this conversation at a time when you know you won’t be in a hurry or interrupted by anything. You’ll feel more relaxed if you know you aren’t being rushed.

Have a goal in mind2

Would you like your partner to do anything once you tell them, maybe go with you to appointments, or would you rather deal with this on your own? Let them know if there is something they can do to help you feel supported.

Things to keep in mind

Keep it simple and stick to the topic at hand2,3

Focusing on the details that matter and what your diagnosis and treatment mean for your relationship should help keep the conversation straightforward and meaningful for both of you.

Give them time to respond3

Your partner may need a bit of time to process your diagnosis and treatment as it may have been causing problems for you both for a while. When your partner is ready to talk, make sure you listen.

Involve them in your healthcare journey

Your partner will want to support you however they can, and they may also have questions which you are unable to answer. If you are both happy to, sometimes people find it helpful to bring a partner along to their doctor appointments.

Track your progress using the T Track app

Manage your testosterone deficiency, track your symptoms and find out important information about Testogel® all in the app.

Download the app on iOS or Android.

Download on the Apple App Store Get it on Google Play
T Track app download QR code
Download the T Track App

Find out about the T Track app

T-track app

References

  1. Stephanie Booth, Melinda Ratini. WebMD. How to Talk to Your Doctor About Low Testosterone. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/men/features/low-testosterone-how-to-talk-to-your-doctor. Accessed April 2021.
  2. Sheri Stritof, Dr. Carly Snyder. Very Well Mind. How to Have Difficult Marriage Conversations. Available at: https://www.verywellmind.com/tips-when-you-have-to-talk-2302246. Accessed April 2021.
  3. Lexi Walters Wright. Understood. 9 Tips for Having Difficult Conversations With Your Partner. Available at: https://www.understood.org/en/family/relationships/significant-other/9-tips-for-having-difficult-conversations-with-your-partner. Accessed April 2021.

BHUK/2022/182. December 2022.

Reporting of side effects

If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in the package leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

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