Table of contents

• • Introduction
• Understanding Androgen Deficiency (Low Testosterone)
• Testosterone Injection Therapy: Procedure and Considerations
• Navigating Testosterone Injections in South Korea for Medical Tourists
  • Best Clinics in Korea for Androgen Deficiency
• Costs of Testosterone Injections in South Korea and International Comparison
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes with Testosterone Injection Therapy
• Conclusion
  • References

---

Introduction

Androgen deficiency (AD), often called "low testosterone" or "Low T," is a condition where the body doesn't have enough androgenic activity, mainly due to low testosterone levels. Testosterone is essential for many bodily functions, including bone and muscle health, mood regulation, and energy. While most commonly discussed in men (as male hypogonadism), androgen deficiency can also affect women, where it's sometimes called Female Androgen Insufficiency Syndrome (FAIS). Low testosterone can impact physical, mental, and emotional well-being, reducing quality of life.

This guide is crafted for people searching online for information about androgen deficiency and Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), especially those considering treatment in South Korea. It provides clear, accurate, and actionable details about the condition, the TRT injection process, costs, and patient experiences. The goal is to help readers make informed decisions and communicate effectively with healthcare providers. The guide breaks down complex medical concepts and uses tables for easy comparison, aiming to be both authoritative and empathetic. It also stresses the importance of professional medical advice and warns against self-administering high doses of testosterone without supervision.

Understanding Androgen Deficiency (Low Testosterone)

Androgen deficiency means the body doesn't have enough androgenic activity. Androgens are steroid hormones, with testosterone being the main one in men. While this guide focuses on "Low testosterone hormone levels" in men, androgen deficiency can also occur in women (as FAIS). In men, it's often called male hypogonadism.

The prevalence of androgen deficiency in men varies widely, depending on diagnostic criteria, but late-onset testosterone deficiency affects 6% to 30% of men. Testosterone naturally declines with age, starting around 30, but not all low levels mean true androgen deficiency—illnesses like infections or diabetes can cause temporary drops. Many men, especially over 50, delay seeking treatment, often mistaking symptoms for normal aging or depression. This delay can increase health risks, including higher mortality. Recognizing that these symptoms are treatable is key to encouraging timely care.

Common Pseudonyms for Androgen Deficiency

Primary Term	Related/Synonymous Terms
Androgen Deficiency	Hypoandrogenism, Androgen Deficiency Syndrome
Low Testosterone	Testosterone Deficiency, Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome, Low T
Hypogonadism	Male Hypogonadism, Primary Hypogonadism, Secondary Hypogonadism, Hypergonadotropic Hypogonadism, Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism, Late-Onset Hypogonadism (LOH)
FAIS	Female Androgen Insufficiency Syndrome (primarily for women)

Symptoms of Androgen Deficiency

Symptoms can vary by age and severity, often mimicking other conditions. Both physical and mental symptoms are common, highlighting the broad impact of androgen deficiency.

In Males:

• Sexual & Reproductive: Low libido, erectile dysfunction, less ejaculate, infertility
• Energy & Mood: Fatigue, low motivation, anxiety, depression, irritability, "brain fog"
• Physical Changes: Less muscle mass, more body fat (especially abdominal), smaller testicles/penis/prostate, less body/facial hair, gynecomastia
• Other: Hot flashes, insomnia, headaches, lower bone mass (osteoporosis), and in severe cases, testosterone deficiency myopathy

In Females:

• Loss of libido, less body hair, depression, fatigue, vaginal cramps, hot flashes, insomnia, headaches, osteoporosis, reduced muscle mass, and sometimes hypoestrogenism symptoms

Causes and Diagnosis

Androgen deficiency can result from problems with the gonads (testes in men) or with the hypothalamus/pituitary gland.

• Primary Hypogonadism: Testicular issues due to genetics (e.g., Klinefelter syndrome), injury, infections, cancer treatments, tumors, or iron overload (hemochromatosis)
• Secondary Hypogonadism: Problems with the hypothalamus or pituitary, caused by genetic syndromes (e.g., Kallmann's), pituitary disease, high prolactin, brain injury, Cushing's syndrome, liver/kidney failure, or HIV/AIDS. Late-onset hypogonadism is age-related.

Diagnosis usually involves symptoms plus at least two morning blood tests for testosterone. The American Urology Association defines low testosterone as less than 300 ng/dL, though some use 250 ng/dL. Testing is not recommended without symptoms. Additional tests may be needed to find the cause.

Testosterone Injection Therapy: Procedure and Considerations

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) supplements the body's testosterone to relieve symptoms. TRT manages symptoms but doesn't cure the underlying cause, and it can suppress natural testosterone production over time.

Detailed Description of Testosterone Injection Procedure

Testosterone injections are a common TRT method. Main types include Testosterone Cypionate (Depo-Testosterone), Testosterone Enanthate (Xyosted, Jenasteron), and long-acting Testosterone Undecanoate (Aveed, Nebido).

Administration:
Injections are usually intramuscular (IM), often in the gluteal muscle or thigh. Some, like Xyosted, can be subcutaneous (SC). Certain forms, like testosterone undecanoate (Aveed), must be given by a professional due to risks.

Dosage and Frequency:
Western protocols often use 75-100 mg per week. In South Korea, Testosterone Enanthate (Jenasteron®) is given as 100–200 mg IM every 2 weeks, 250 mg IM every 3–4 weeks, or 50–100 mg SC weekly. Testosterone Undecanoate (Nevido®) is 1,000 mg IM every 12 weeks. Some prefer "microdosing" (smaller, more frequent doses) for stable levels, but this is rare in Korea due to regulations. Less frequent injections can cause hormone "peaks and valleys," leading to symptom return and side effects.

Other TRT Methods:
Other options include topical gels/creams, transdermal patches, buccal systems, nasal gels, and implanted pellets. Oral testosterone is less common due to liver risks, though some forms are FDA-approved.

Mechanism of Action: How TRT Works in the Body

Injected testosterone enters the bloodstream, binds to androgen receptors, and triggers cellular responses that restore androgenic activity. This helps relieve deficiency symptoms and supports normal body functions.

Potential Benefits and Risks of Testosterone Injection Therapy

Category	Potential Benefits of TRT	Potential Risks & Side Effects of TRT
Overall Well-being	More energy, less fatigue, better mood, less anxiety/depression, improved self-esteem	Mood changes (irritability, aggression, depression, mania), withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly
Physical Health	Higher libido, better sexual performance, more muscle, stronger bones, less body fat, improved cognition	Acne, oily skin, more body/facial hair, fluid retention, gynecomastia, worse sleep apnea, higher blood pressure, more red blood cells (clots), prostate issues, lower sperm count/fertility, rare liver damage, injection site reactions, testicular shrinkage

Potential Benefits of TRT

• Sexual Function: Improved libido, erectile function, and sexual satisfaction
• Energy and Mood: More energy, less fatigue, better mood, less anxiety/depression, clearer thinking, higher self-esteem
• Body Composition: More muscle, less fat, stronger bones
• Cognitive Function: Sharper mind, less brain fog
• Quality of Life: Better work performance, social life, and personal satisfaction

Potential Risks and Side Effects

• Common: Injection site pain, acne, oily skin, more body/facial hair, fluid retention, gynecomastia, mood swings, sleep problems, headaches, muscle pain, digestive issues
• Serious: Higher blood pressure, risk of heart attack/stroke, blood clots (erythrocytosis), prostate stimulation (urinary symptoms, cancer risk), lower sperm count/fertility, rare liver damage, severe mental health changes, withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly, early puberty in children, masculinization in women

Important Considerations Before Starting TRT

• Pre-existing Conditions: Not suitable for those with untreated heart failure, sleep apnea, recent heart attack/stroke, high red blood cell counts, prostate/breast cancer, or unexplained prostate lumps
• Fertility: TRT can lower sperm count; discuss fertility preservation with your doctor if needed
• Long-Term Commitment: TRT is often lifelong, and stopping can bring back symptoms. Regular monitoring is essential. TRT should only be used for medical reasons under supervision.

Navigating Testosterone Injections in South Korea for Medical Tourists

South Korea is a leading destination for medical tourism, known for advanced technology and high-quality care. Top hospitals include Samsung Medical Center, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, and Seoul National University Bundang Hospital. However, national insurance doesn't cover transition-related care, and there may be limited specialists for transgender healthcare. Some clinics, like Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital LGBTQ Plus Center, are more inclusive. For TRT, specialized men's health and urology clinics are recommended.

Best Clinics in Korea for Androgen Deficiency

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for androgen deficiency:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
SH Clinic	Comprehensive medical center, women’s and men’s health, health screenings, immune wellness, pain rehabilitation, sexual health, couple’s therapy	Advanced treatments for urinary incontinence, vaginal dryness, gynecological cancers, prostate health, erectile dysfunction, intimacy-enhancing treatments

SH Clinic

SH Clinic in Sinsa stands out as a comprehensive medical center, offering a wide range of specialized procedures to address both women’s and men’s health needs. With a strong foundation in women’s health, the clinic provides advanced treatments for conditions such as urinary incontinence, vaginal dryness, and gynecological cancers, alongside a suite of cosmetic and rejuvenation procedures. Their services extend to thorough health screenings, immune wellness programs, and pain rehabilitation, ensuring holistic care for every patient.

In addition to its robust women’s health offerings, SH Clinic is also recognized for its expertise in male urology, addressing issues like prostate health, erectile dysfunction, and incontinence. The clinic’s commitment to sexual health is further reflected in its couple’s therapy and intimacy-enhancing treatments, particularly tailored for midlife couples seeking to strengthen their relationships and overall well-being. By combining personalized care with state-of-the-art medical technology, SH Clinic provides a supportive environment for patients seeking solutions for androgen deficiency and related health concerns.

You can check out their website here: SH Clinic Website

Process of Getting Testosterone Injections in South Korea

• Pre-Arrival Planning:

  • Duration of Stay: Plan for at least 9 days to cover assessments, first treatment, and monitoring
  • Required Documents: Bring ID, online registration proof, proof of funds, insurance, passport photos, visa receipt, flight/hotel bookings, and a medical opinion from your home doctor
  • Clinic Selection: Research clinics specializing in men's health and urology, such as Proud Urology Clinic, Stantop Urology & Andrology, and SH Clinic in Seoul

• Initial Consultation and Medical Assessments:

  • On arrival, meet with an endocrinologist or urologist for a full review and tests (blood work, EKG, urinalysis, HIV test, chest X-ray, and possibly MRI or bone density test)

• Treatment Plan and First Injection:

  • After test results (usually by Day 3), the team creates a personalized TRT plan. The first injection is typically on Day 4, administered by a professional in a clinic.

• Follow-up and Monitoring:

  • Post-injection care may include monitoring and pain management. Follow-ups are every 3 months in the first year, then every 6–12 months. Monitoring includes testosterone levels, blood counts, blood pressure, weight, and cholesterol. Some clinics offer remote consultations, but ongoing care with a local doctor is important.

Key Regulatory and Practical Considerations

• Legality of Self-Injection: Self-injection at home is not legally allowed in South Korea. All injections must be done in a clinic, increasing travel and consultation costs.
• Dosing Protocols: Korean clinics use standardized, less frequent dosing (e.g., Nebido 1000mg every 8–12 weeks, Jenasteron 250mg every 2 weeks). Microdosing is rare due to regulations.
• Clinic Specialization: Choose clinics focused on men's health and urology for the best care.

Recommended Clinics for TRT in South Korea

• Proud Urology Clinic (Gangnam, Seoul): Specializes in low testosterone therapy, offering injections, gels/patches, pellets, and oral meds
• Stantop Urology & Andrology (Sinnonhyeon Station): Known for comprehensive, patient-centered care
• SH Clinic (Sinsa): Focuses on male urology, erectile dysfunction, prostate health, and incontinence
• Other options: Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, Gamdong Urology Clinic, Adams Urology Korea, GoldMan Urology Clinic

Costs of Testosterone Injections in South Korea and International Comparison

Understanding the costs of TRT is crucial for medical tourists. While medication may be affordable, mandatory in-clinic administration and other fees can add up.

Estimated Costs of TRT Components in South Korea

• Hormone Therapy (General): ₩300,000–₩900,000/month ($200–$600 USD)
• Testosterone Injections:
  • Jenasteron (250mg): ₩15,000/dose ($10–11 USD), every 3 weeks
  • Nebido (1000mg): ₩250,000/dose ($170–180 USD), every 3 months
• Consultations: ₩100,000–₩300,000 ($70–$200 USD) for initial visits and tests; ₩58,000–₩116,000 ($40–$80 USD) for follow-ups
• Tests: General check-ups ₩1,020,000–₩1,450,000 ($700–$1,000 USD); Brain MRI ₩1,310,000–₩1,740,000 ($900–$1,200 USD); Bone Density ₩1,090,000–₩1,450,000 ($750–$1,000 USD)

While per-dose medication costs are low, the need for in-clinic injections increases total expenses due to travel, time, and repeated visits.

Cost Comparison with Other Countries

• USA: Injections $30–$100/month; gels/creams $200–$500/month; pellets $600–$1,200 per procedure; doctor visits $150–$300; labs $200–$500; overall $150–$700/month depending on method and extras
• Mexico: $100–$200/month, often including doctor visits and labs
• Thailand: $80–$150/month, often including doctor visits and labs

In South Korea, while medication may be cheaper, the requirement for in-clinic administration increases overall costs and logistical complexity compared to countries where self-injection is allowed.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes with Testosterone Injection Therapy

Most patients report positive results from TRT, especially with longer-term use, but some face challenges and side effects.

Reported Improvements

• Cognitive Function: Many report clearer thinking and less brain fog
• Energy: Increased energy and motivation for daily activities
• Libido: Improved sex drive and satisfaction
• Body Composition: Some see reduced body fat
• Quality of Life: 75% report better overall quality of life, including work and social life
• Mental Well-being: 71% report better mental health, 69% higher self-esteem/confidence
• Appearance: Over 60% notice physical improvements

Reported Challenges and Side Effects

• Common Side Effects: Acne (24%), testicular atrophy/reduced sperm (24%), gynecomastia (19%), increased blood viscosity (16%), fluid retention (15%)
• Hair and Skin: Some experience hair thinning and acne
• Behavioral Changes: Some report increased aggression or personality changes
• Dosing Issues: Problems can arise with inconsistent dosing or with pellets, which can't be adjusted once implanted

Motivations and Delays

Most men seek TRT to improve relationships (79%) and appearance (53%). However, 86% delay treatment for at least a year, often due to misattributing symptoms to aging or depression.

Information Seeking and Consultation Expectations

Most men (81%) use online sources for information, but only 18% discuss hormonal health with peers. During consultations, they want a diagnosis, treatment options, side effect discussions, and long-term implications explained.

Conclusion

Androgen deficiency, or low testosterone, is a common and treatable condition that can significantly impact quality of life. Testosterone Replacement Therapy, especially via injections, is effective for most patients but requires long-term commitment and careful monitoring due to potential side effects. For medical tourists in South Korea, the advanced care and affordable medication are balanced by strict regulations requiring in-clinic injections and standardized dosing, which can increase overall costs and logistical challenges. Patients should seek thorough medical evaluation, plan carefully, and ensure ongoing follow-up for safe and effective treatment.

References

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26