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Hi there,
I just came across this board a few days ago. I’ve been reading posts and feel that I can relate to a lot of the situations others find themselves in.
I have a couple concerns and I would greatly appreciate any help or advice from anyone out there.

A little background on myself.
I am currently 24 years old and have many of the symptoms described on this site.
Even at my age I am not able to grow any facial hair and if it wasn’t for the odd hair here and there (a hair that just randomly pops up... just one) I wouldn’t even have any use for a razor.
I also have never had much body hair at all, including no chest hair whatsoever. This is something that’s caused me a great deal of embarassment.
I feel that my sex drive is lower than normal.
I am quite tall but have very slender bone mass for my age.
I have struggled with irritability as well as depression mood swings, low self-esteem and anxiety

I have also been diagnosed with OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder) and have been interested in weight-lifting and somewhat obsessive about body image since the age of 16 or so. I have tried all different kinds of workout regimes as well as a variety of bodybuilding diets, I even eat all the ultra-healthy foods that may naturally boost testosterone level (cabbage, broccoli, asparagus, fish oil, garlic, onions, eggs, zinc tablets etc.) but am still very frustrated with the way I look. I look nothing like anyone else at the gym who lifts weights and bodybuilds, am still not all that strong and at the same time have put on a fair amount of body fat to get where I am muscle wise.
In terms of gaining muscle without help I have read everything I can over the years as well as tried about every avenue I could possibly think of.

Sorry about blabbing here, I’ll try and hurry up and get to the point..
I actually have had tests done checking testosterone level and apparently the result was “borderline low”. I do not know an actual number but my doctor believed that the cons of treatment (such as the possibility of increased aggression) end up outweighing the pros.

I am now considering consulting a different doctor.

However, a question I’ve been wondering -- is it at all possible to begin some sort of treatment therapy without the consent of a doctor??

I also know that there are many “natural testosterone booster” supplements available on the market, often used by athletes. Does anyone here have any experience with these types of supplements or know if they actually work??

Despite being 24 I also still battle with acne and have heard that this can be a side effect from different treatments and supplements?? Has anyone else found this?? Does anyone know if certain methods of therapy are worse in regards to this side effect than other methods??

I find this to be a fairly embarassing topic and its been something that I feel has taken quite a toll on my self-esteem. I have seriously considered taking illegal steroids in the past but in the end have not went through with it. I am really hoping that there is a better way to get by.

Sorry, I realize this has been a lengthy post but its something thats been on my mind for a while.
Any advice or information on any of these concerns at all would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance.

[mattluke73]

I went to a Urologist and he ordered blood work for Total and Free Testosterone. Some people say you should go to an Endocrinologist rather. I'm not sure which would be better. However, if you are borderline low, some doctors argue that even though you may be within the normal ranges, normal for you personally may be a little higher than the levels your body produces and you may need treatment for that. Don't take illegal steroids. You don't know what you are getting. You may get something that could kill you or just make you sick or make you feel better but you can't take that chance. Go to a doctor. If the doctor discounts you because you are young like one of the doctors I went to, then find a doctor who will listen to you.

Thansk,

[mattluke73]

I went to a Urologist and he ordered blood work for Total and Free Testosterone. Some people say you should go to an Endocrinologist rather. I'm not sure which would be better. However, if you are borderline low, some doctors argue that even though you may be within the normal ranges, normal for you personally may be a little higher than the levels your body produces and you may need treatment for that. Don't take illegal steroids. You don't know what you are getting. You may get something that could kill you or just make you sick or make you feel better but you can't take that chance. Go to a doctor. If the doctor discounts you because you are young like one of the doctors I went to, then find a doctor who will listen to you.

Thanks,