Are you exploring hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and considering testosterone pellets? In this blog, I’m sharing my personal experience with this treatment option—the benefits, challenges, and why I ultimately stopped. I also created a YouTube video where I discuss my journey in depth. You can watch it here.
Table Of Content
Understanding Testosterone Pellets
Testosterone pellets are a form of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. Tiny, rice-sized implants are placed under the skin to release a steady dose of testosterone over several months. They aim to help with:
- Fatigue and low energy
- Mood swings and irritability
- Decreased libido
- Difficulty maintaining muscle tone and managing weight
My Experience: The Good and the Bad
1. The Insertion Process
The procedure itself was quick and relatively straightforward, with a small incision to insert the pellets under the skin.
2. Extreme Post-Insertion Pain
While post-procedure soreness typically lasts just a few days, my experience was very different.
- Prolonged Discomfort: I dealt with extreme soreness and tenderness in the treated area for up to two weeks.
- Sleep Struggles: The pain in my buttock made it nearly impossible to find a comfortable position to sit or even lie down, leading to significant sleep loss.
- Activity Limitations: The pain also forced me to limit workouts and physical activities, which was incredibly frustrating.
3. The Initial Benefits
I did notice some positive changes early on, including:
- Improved energy and mental clarity
- Enhanced libido
4. The Challenges That Followed
Despite the initial benefits, the side effects were difficult to ignore:
- Mood swings and irritability: My hormonal fluctuations caused noticeable emotional instability.
- Physical pain: The prolonged soreness wasn’t manageable and disrupted my daily life.
5. My Decision to Stop
Ultimately, the combination of mood swings, irritability, and the unusual level of physical discomfort led me to conclude that testosterone pellets weren’t the best fit for me.
Key Takeaways for Women Considering Testosterone Pellets
Here are my recommendations if you’re considering this form of HRT:
- Work with a knowledgeable provider: Choose a specialist who takes the time to understand your needs.
- Be prepared for potential side effects: Everyone’s body reacts differently.
- Explore alternatives: Other forms of testosterone therapy, like injections or topical treatments, may offer more flexibility and control.
The Bottom Line
My journey with testosterone pellets wasn’t easy, but it taught me valuable lessons about my body and what it needs. While this treatment didn’t work for me, it may be a great option for others.
If you’re considering HRT, do thorough research, consult trusted healthcare professionals, and make the decision that feels right for you. Remember, hormonal health is personal, and finding balance takes time.
Want to hear the full story? Watch my YouTube video here.
Hey Debbie! Thanks for the story. I already use Estrogen/Progesterone HRT for menopause symptoms, mostly night sweats. But last year I asked my doctor for testosterone for the very issues you listed, especially libido decline ( with its associated problems,) after menopause. I also wanted to build more muscle. Even though I was working out with weights at least 4 days a week, my muscle tone looked bad to me. The testerone I used comes in large plastic syringes and is a gel (it had to be compounded at the pharmacy.) After I got it, I used it a few times by applying in at the top of my inner thigh as directed. I didn’t notice any difference either way. Then I did more research and found other side effects that were concerning. Number 1 on that list was weight gain, which is the opposite of why I was trying to use it. I wanted firmer muscles, not bigger, heavier muscles. I too stopped using it very quickly due to the thought of it having the opposite effect of what I wanted it for. It’s still sitting underneath my bathroom sink. Ultimately I decided that there are changes that my body is going to go through and have gone because I’m 63 now. Unless I’m willing to spend hours lifting increasingly heavy weights at the gym for many hours a day, almost every day, my muscle tone is going to be what it is. My libido is going to be what it is too. That doesn’t stop me from having a full intimate life though, because my husband has enough libido for both of us! I’ve decided that as long as I can walk regularly, ride my bike, lift weights, do Pilates, and body weights , my body is fit enough to do everything I need to do. Weight bearing exercises make me strong and protect my bones density. All the rest help me not only look better, but even more importantly, feel better. There’s nothing like it than to having a rousing session at my gym to put me in a good mood. Thanks for sharing your story, we all benefit from this type of open sharing.
Hi Christallin! It is so good to hear from you. Thank you for sharing your experience with testosterone gel. I have wondered about that also. You left some points for us to really delve into. The thing is women should understand that this quest to balancing hormones via HRT is so personal. It is different for every single woman. The hard part is being a guinea pig and having the patient to test the variety of options out. I agree about going to the gym and giving you the best shot of happy juice! It always puts me in a good mood. I wish you the very best in your health and wellness journey! xo