@kjkeyworth's testosterone confidence claims, fact-checked

What does this video actually claim?

@kjkeyworth's TikTok makes a simple but loaded statement: "Self confidence goes a long way." Posted with hashtags about trans men, FTM transition, and testosterone, it's clearly positioning testosterone as a confidence booster. The implication is that testosterone therapy improves self-confidence, which then helps with broader life outcomes.

The video doesn't make specific medical claims or cite studies. It's more of a personal reflection tagged with transition-related hashtags. But the context suggests testosterone's psychological benefits are significant enough to warrant a social media post about confidence.

Does testosterone actually boost confidence?

Yes, but the research shows mixed results depending on baseline testosterone levels. The evidence is strongest for people with clinically low testosterone, not necessarily for those starting hormone therapy for gender transition.

A randomized controlled trial by Snyder et al. (NEJM, 2016) found that testosterone gel improved mood and energy in men over 65 with low testosterone (below 275 ng/dL). The Testosterone Trials showed statistically significant improvements on mood questionnaires after one year of treatment.

But here's where it gets complicated. Most studies on testosterone and mood focus on cisgender men with hypogonadism. Research specifically on transgender men using testosterone is more limited, though smaller studies like those by Auer et al. (Journal of Sexual Medicine, 2014) do show psychological improvements during hormone therapy.

What's missing from this confidence narrative?

The video oversimplifies how testosterone affects mood and confidence. Testosterone doesn't work like an antidepressant where you take it and feel better in a few weeks.

Physical changes from testosterone therapy often take months to years. Voice changes typically begin around 3-6 months, facial hair growth can take 1-2 years, and muscle mass changes occur gradually over the first year. The confidence boost many people experience might come from seeing these physical changes align with their gender identity, not just from the hormone itself.

Social factors play a huge role too. Increased confidence might stem from feeling more comfortable in social situations, reduced gender dysphoria, or simply the psychological effect of taking steps toward transition goals.

Are there confidence-related risks to consider?

Testosterone can cause mood swings, especially in the first few months as your body adjusts to new hormone levels. Some people experience increased irritability or aggression, which isn't exactly the confidence boost they were hoping for.

The TRAVERSE trial (Lincoff et al., NEJM, 2023) followed over 5,000 men on testosterone therapy and found cardiovascular risks that patients need to discuss with providers. That's not directly related to confidence, but it shows testosterone isn't risk-free.

More relevant to mood: testosterone can worsen underlying mental health conditions in some people. If someone has untreated depression or anxiety, testosterone alone won't fix those issues and might complicate treatment.

What should you actually know about testosterone and confidence?

@kjkeyworth isn't wrong that confidence matters, and testosterone therapy can contribute to improved self-esteem for many people. But it's not a simple cause-and-effect relationship.

If you're considering testosterone therapy, realistic expectations matter. The psychological benefits often come from the whole package of physical changes, social transition, and reduced gender dysphoria rather than just the hormone itself.

Work with a provider experienced in hormone therapy who can monitor your levels and adjust dosing. Starting doses are typically 25-50mg of testosterone cypionate weekly, with adjustments based on blood levels and how you feel.