Is a HRT specialist also called a Edocrinologist?

[bansheeman]

I am starting my process on whether I have Low T or not. My question is do I see a endocrinologist for this process? This is what my doctor thought after discussing honestly why I am pursuing this. If it is not what is the proper medical specialist that I should go to. I have great medical coverage but they have to be in network. Any guidance is greatly appreciated.

[kelkel]

An Endo deals with hormones, just not necessarily testosterone. You don't need a specialist, just a doctor who understands hormones and can interpret full blood work. A good list of blood work in in the Finding A Doc Sticky thread at the top of this form. A good, initial diagnosis by an astute doc is imperative.

[jomamma007]

technically I suppose, they are supposed to be experts in all things relating to the endocrine system.

Many would agree though that endo's are only good for diagnosing diabetes.
Most of medical community in general is ignorant when it comes to Hormone Replacement.

There are so few doctors who actually stay up to date, thank God for this forum.
Doctors still giving guys once a month injections, ridiculous.

If you google search pharmacies in your area, you can call them up and ask who they'd recommend for hrt.
Then call up who they recommend, as they'll probably give you a few suggestions.
Questions to Ask
-Do you provide self injections
-Do you prescribe HCG
-Will you prescribe an aromatise inhibitor if needed
-How long are we going to wait for blood work and will you allow me to test for the following
• Total Testosterone
• Bioavailable testosterone (aka Free and Loosely Bound)
• Free Testosterone
• SHBG
• DHT (gel users especially pay attention to this)
• Estradiol (specify “sensitive” assay for males)
• LH
• FSH
• Prolactin
• Cortisol
• Thyroid Panel (complete)
• CBC
• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
• Lipid Panel
• PSA (age dependent)
• IGF-1, IGFBP-3 (if HGH therapy is being considered)
• Vitamin D
-Will we diagnose the reason my testosterone is low in the first place before starting therapy?

If everything checks out, i'd go through with it!

[kelkel]

^^ Well done.

[2Sox]

^^ Well done.

Second that.