Please remember, this column is designed to help the consumer seeking behavioral-health information, and not intended to be any form of psychotherapy or a replacement for professional, individualized services. Opinions expressed in the column are those of the columnist and do not represent the position of other SelfhelpMagazine.com staff.

Question

Will extra testosterone make me more manly?

Answer

Testosterone is the hormone related to sexual desire in men and -- surprisingly, in women, though in much smaller amounts. It appears to have its effect in the desire or arousal phase of the sexual cycle but not on getting and staying hard. In other words, testosterone revs those sexy fantasies but not the equipment.

If being more manly means having more sexual thoughts or being more interested in sex, then a series of blood tests will tell whether your slow down in thoughts and desire are due to a decline in the production of those hormones. But if being more manly means having more frequent or longer lasting erections then you are shopping in the wrong store. In fact, taking extra testosterone when tested levels are normal not only does not increase sexual functioning but may lead to the reduction of the naturally produced hormone. Taking testosterone generally fits in the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" category -- it might make things worse or create a new problem.

03/18/98

Dr. Al Cooper, clinical director at the San Jose Marital and Sexuality Centre (408-248-9737), runs the training program for Counseling and Psychological Services at Stanford University. Dr. Cooper is internationally known for his work in sexuality and is freqently interviewed by the media. He currently writes a column in Men's Health Magazine.

Dr. Coralie Scherer coordinates online services for the Centre and specializes in sexual trauma, women's issues, and marital therapy.