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Fertility Glossary

Hypogonadism

Low testosterone caused by the testes or the pituitary not working properly.

Male fertility

Hypogonadism means the testes produce too little testosterone, and often too few sperm. Primary hypogonadism arises in the testes themselves; secondary hypogonadism arises from the pituitary or hypothalamus and is signalled by low LH and FSH. Treatment depends on the cause — and testosterone replacement is not a fertility treatment, because it further suppresses sperm production.

Also known as: low testosterone, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism

Related South Africa guides

Sources

  • ESHRE guidelines and patient information

Last reviewed: 8 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

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