What could be the reasons for low estradiol levels in men?

Sep 11, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Cao Zhiqiang

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, the main causes of low estradiol levels in males include an improper diet, excessive exercise, testicular dysfunction, hyperthyroidism, and pituitary tumors. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical treatment at a reputable hospital. In daily life, one should maintain a regular作息 (作息 translates to作息 schedule/lifestyle here), avoid staying up late, maintain a positive mindset, and avoid prolonged mental stress.

Generally, the main causes of low estradiol levels in men include an improper diet, excessive exercise, testicular dysfunction, hyperthyroidism, and pituitary tumors. If discomfort symptoms arise, timely consultation and treatment at a reputable hospital are recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Improper Diet

Long-term picky eating may lead to insufficient intake of foods rich in phytoestrogens. A lack of raw materials such as protein and zinc needed for hormone synthesis can affect estradiol production. It is advised to adjust your diet by increasing intake of soy products, nuts, lean meats, and other foods to ensure balanced nutrition and provide sufficient raw materials for estradiol synthesis.

2. Excessive Exercise

Engaging in high-intensity exercise over a long period places the body in a state of stress, which suppresses the function of the gonadal axis, reducing the conversion of testosterone to estradiol and leading to low estradiol levels. It is recommended to reduce the intensity and duration of exercise, choose moderate activities like jogging or swimming, avoid overexertion, and allow the body's hormone regulation system to gradually recover.

3. Testicular Dysfunction

The testes are the primary organs for synthesizing sex hormones. Inflammation, trauma, or other factors that cause testicular dysfunction can directly reduce estradiol synthesis. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as testosterone undecanoate soft capsules, testosterone propionate injections, or testosterone enanthate injections may be used to improve testicular function and promote estradiol production.

4. Hyperthyroidism

Excessive secretion of thyroid hormones accelerates body metabolism and affects gonadal axis regulation, resulting in reduced estradiol synthesis and secretion. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, or carbimazole tablets may be taken to control thyroid function, restore normal hormone regulation, and improve low estradiol levels.

5. Pituitary Tumor

A pituitary tumor can compress pituitary tissue, affecting the secretion of gonadotropins, thereby inhibiting the testes' ability to synthesize estradiol. If the tumor is small, medications such as bromocriptine tablets, pergolide mesylate tablets, or pramipexole hydrochloride tablets may be used under a doctor's guidance. If the tumor is large, transsphenoidal pituitary tumor removal surgery is required to relieve the compression and restore pituitary function.

In daily life, maintaining a regular sleep schedule and avoiding staying up late are important. Keeping a positive mindset and avoiding prolonged mental stress, along with regular medical checkups to detect and treat underlying diseases promptly, can help maintain stable hormone levels.

View All

Is anemia with hemoglobin of 90 g/L severe?

In general, according to the World Health Organization standards, anemia can be diagnosed when hemoglobin levels fall below 130 g/L in adult males and below 120 g/L in adult females. A hemoglobin level of 90 g/L indicates mild anemia, which is usually not considered severe. However, the actual severity should be assessed based on individual circumstances. If a hemoglobin level of 90 g/L is detected, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.