[GoneGirl]

Now, in bio-males, if we increase E, some E receptors will, in turn, cause decreased T production, right?

If we decrease T (through AAs), in contrast, are there some T receptors that won't be activated that would normally suppress E production, leading to increased E levels?

A related question: in bio-males, are there any sources of E other than by aromatase conversion of T?

Michelle

Hi Michelle,
What we discussed in a private conversation, in which I stated that lowering your T will cause the body to increase E to maintain a total amount of sex hormone was misleading.

Lotus can correct me, as needed, but the fact is that the only way that E2 (estradiol) is formed in a bio-male is through aromatization which occurs in various tissues of the body including adipose (fatty) tissue. If one's testosterone level is reduced, the amount of estrogen produced also is reduced, but not as drastically. So men with low T will also likely have lower than normal E. What does change, however, is the ratio of T to E. As the T/E ratio drops, the available E has a greater effect because there's less T to overcome, thus secondary female sex characteristics (e.g. breast enlargement, increased body fat, etc.) are realized.

On the other hand, if we increase E exogenously by taking PM, for example, the hypothamus and pituitary glands will detect it and signal the testes to produce less testosterone. Thus, PM has the effect of an anti-androgen even though it is not classified as one.

If you aggressively drive down your T with AAs (not PM mind you), your E level will also drop below normal. That is not a good thing as I understand it. For example, it can lead to severe osteoporosis.

Please, if I'm off base with this explanation, I'd like someone to correct me. On the other hand, if I'm correct, please confirm.

Clara