Published on: 5/6/2025
Testicular shrinkage may occur gradually as part of the natural aging process, often starting around middle age (40s-50s), and testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can sometimes cause shrinkage sooner because it lowers the body’s own hormone production.
Our bodies slowly change as we get older. In men, natural testosterone levels tend to fall over time, and some studies note that testicles may start to shrink during middle age—often noticeable around the 40s or 50s. This process happens because of age-related changes in hormones and the normal aging of the testicular tissue. When a man uses testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) to boost his testosterone levels, the body can reduce its own production of this hormone. This reduction can cause the testicles to become smaller because they no longer need to work as hard to produce testosterone. It is important to note that everyone is different, and the timing of these changes can vary based on individual health and genetics. Also, while some decrease in size might occur with testosterone treatment, many factors, such as overall health and other therapies, can influence this process. If there are concerns about changes in testicular size or hormone levels, it is best to talk with a healthcare provider to understand what is happening for that individual.
(References)
Cheng H, Zhang X, Li Y, Cao D, Luo C, Zhang Q, Zhang S, Jiao Y. Age-related testosterone decline: mechanisms and intervention strategies. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2024 Nov 14;22(1):144. doi: 10.1186/s12958-024-01316-5. PMID: 39543598; PMCID: PMC11562514.
Matzkin ME, Calandra RS, Rossi SP, Bartke A, Frungieri MB. Hallmarks of Testicular Aging: The Challenge of Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Therapies Using Natural and/or Pharmacological Compounds to Improve the Physiopathological Status of the Aged Male Gonad. Cells. 2021 Nov 10;10(11):3114. doi: 10.3390/cells10113114. PMID: 34831334; PMCID: PMC8619877.
We would love to help them too.
For First Time Users
We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.
Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor’s Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.