Step 1: Initial Consultation & Assessment
Your TRT process starts with an initial consultation with Dr Bik. During the initial consultation for testosterone therapy, a comprehensive assessment of symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle is conducted to understand the patient’s concerns.
We review common signs of low testosterone, including fatigue, low libido, erectile dysfunction, mood changes, anxiety, depression, mood swings, insomnia, weight gain, reduced muscle mass, lower strength, poor concentration, reduced motivation, and constant tiredness despite adequate sleep. We also assess wider health factors such as stress, nutrition, alcohol intake, skin changes, acne, sleep apnea risk, diabetes, heart disease, fertility goals, medication use, and family history.
A physical examination may be recommended, and we discuss what you want to achieve from treatment. This ensures your diagnosis is based on the full clinical picture-not just one blood test result.
Step 2: Comprehensive Blood Testing
Comprehensive blood testing before starting therapy includes measuring total testosterone, free testosterone, estradiol, PSA, and red blood cell counts. We may also assess LH, FSH, SHBG, thyroid function, liver health, lipids, cardiovascular markers, kidney function, glucose control, and other relevant hormone levels depending on your symptoms and medical history.
Initial diagnostic blood testing for TRT requires total testosterone readings, with most clinics mandating two separate, confirmed low readings before prescribing. In UK practice, total testosterone is commonly tested in the morning, often fasting, because hormone levels fluctuate during the day. If total testosterone is borderline, free testosterone can help clarify whether levels are truly low for your body.
Regular blood tests are recommended before starting TRT and periodically thereafter to monitor testosterone levels and ensure they remain within the normal range. Blood tests to measure testosterone levels are recommended before starting therapy and again three months after initiation to ensure that dosage levels do not exceed the normal range. Ongoing monitoring also helps reduce risks such as raised red blood cell count, PSA changes, liver strain, or dose-related side effects.
Step 3: Personalised Treatment Plan
Once your results are available, Dr Bik will review your diagnosis, explain your hormone levels, and discuss whether testosterone replacement therapy is appropriate. If your testosterone levels are not low, or if symptoms are more likely caused by another medical issue, we will advise you honestly and recommend the right next step.
If treatment is suitable, your TRT plan is tailored specifically to your individual needs, lifestyle, symptoms, safety profile, fertility plans, and preferences. TRT can be administered in various forms, including injections, topical gels, or patches, depending on individual lifestyle and health needs.
We explain the expected benefits, possible side effects, treatment options, monitoring requirements, and long-term commitment. TRT typically entails a long-term commitment; ceasing treatment will revert testosterone levels to baseline deficient levels. This is why careful decision-making, informed consent, and ongoing medical guidance are essential before beginning therapy.
Step 4: Ongoing Monitoring & Support
TRT is not a “set and forget” treatment. We provide regular follow-up appointments to track progress, review symptoms, monitor blood results, adjust dosing, and support your overall wellbeing.
We should continue to monitor health markers such as red blood cell count, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, and liver function to manage safety. We also review libido, erectile dysfunction, mood, energy levels, sleep quality, skin or acne changes, weight, muscle mass, blood pressure, and any symptoms that suggest the dose may need adjustment.