Rebounding T levels

[EvelynSTL]

I just got my latest bloodwork done, and my testosterone levels rebounded significantly. My doses haven't been changed in almost a year, and so far my T levels have dropped with every test, except this last one. I know smoking doesn't help things but this seems really drastic.

Dec '14 - 1097 ng/dl
Apr '15 - 792
Jul '15 - 620
Oct '15 - 298
Jan '16 - 683

Needless to say, I'm really disappointed with the latest results.

Can smoking really have THAT much effect on HRT?

[KayXo]

T levels FLUCTUATE over time. Smoking also interferes with the metabolization of some drugs/hormones (estradiol, progesterone, etc.) taken ORALLY, reducing concentration in blood BUT if smoking habits remained the same, this shouldn't have affected results.

More important is have you seen a resurgence in masculinization, less feminization? Isn't that what REALLY counts in the end? Like thicker hair growth, scalp hair loss, increase in libido/erections, skin more oily and less soft, breasts shrinking, less fat distribution?

If you take spironolactone or cyproterone acetate, these also block part of the measured T so tests don't show everything that is happening in the body.

[Rachel]

I smoked for a long time but finally quit 7 1/2 years ago. Keep trying to quit and good luck.

You should have a discussion with your doctor. My T is below 20 ng/dl and has been for over a year; since I went IM. Prior I was on pills and was between 26-36 ng/dl. My spiro dose has never changed and it is low; however, my E is high. My doctor made me promise not to smoke, not do drugs and not drink and maintain my weight and exercise in order to get the dosages I am on. He knows my history and issues. It helps to develop a relationship with your doctor.   

Everyone is different so it is best to discuss your care with your doctor.

[EvelynSTL]

I'm just freaking out a little bit is all. My appt is next week so I'll get more info then.

T levels FLUCTUATE over time. Smoking also interferes with the metabolization of some drugs/hormones (estradiol, progesterone, etc.) taken ORALLY, reducing concentration in blood BUT if smoking habits remained the same, this shouldn't have affected results.

More important is have you seen a resurgence in masculinization, less feminization? Isn't that what REALLY counts in the end? Like thicker hair growth, scalp hair loss, increase in libido/erections, skin more oily and less soft, breasts shrinking, less fat distribution?

If you take spironolactone or cyproterone acetate, these also block part of the measured T so tests don't show everything that is happening in the body.

Smoking has been on/off again since I started HRT. Late July-mid Sept, I managed to quit and saw my best results, other times not so much - just not as big of a drop.

As far as the other stuff - If my skin has softened, I haven't noticed it yet. Still seems the same as before I started hormones. Libido has definitely picked up a bit, (which I was kinda enjoying,) along with those annoying morning erections. I've noticed my bra is gapping a bit, I figured I just suck at adjusting it correctly though.

When I have blood drawn I postpone my morning dose until afterwards. So my most recent dose of spiro would've have been ~14 hours prior.