Male menopause, also known as andropause, is a term used to describe the age-related decline in testosterone levels in men.

If you are wondering ‘Is Male Menopause Real?’ well, Yes, it is!

 

While we are all aware of menopause in women and its associated symptoms, its male equivalent is seldom spoken about. Not many people realise that men undergo hormonal changes as they change, akin to menopause in women. It is important to note that male menopause is not a direct equivalent of female menopause, which is a more abrupt event that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years.

 

What is Male Menopause?

 

Male menopause, also known as andropause, is a term used to describe the age-related decline in testosterone levels in men. Testosterone is a hormone that plays a role in many aspects of male health, including sex drive, muscle mass, bone density, and red blood cell production. Testosterone levels begin to decline in men around the age of 30, but the rate of decline varies from person to person. Some men may experience a significant decline in testosterone levels in their 30s, while others may not experience a noticeable decline until their 50s or 60s.

 

Causes for Testosterone Decline

 

Testosterone levels decline with age for several reasons, including:

 

• Reduced function of the Leydig cells:

  The Leydig cells are the cells in the testicles that produce testosterone. As men age, the Leydig cells produce less testosterone.

• Changes in the pituitary gland:

  The pituitary gland is a gland in the brain that produces hormones that regulate testosterone production. As men age, the pituitary gland may become less sensitive to hormones that regulate testosterone production.

• Increased levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG):

  SHBG is a protein that binds to testosterone and makes it unavailable for use by the body. As men age, SHBG levels typically increase.

In addition to age, other factors that can contribute to low testosterone levels include:

 

• Certain medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as diabetes, obesity, and obstructive sleep apnea, can cause low testosterone levels.
• Medications: Some steroids and certain chemotherapy drugs can cause low testosterone levels.
• Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of exercise can all contribute to low testosterone levels.

Symptoms of Low Testosterone

 

The symptoms of low testosterone in men can vary from person to person. Some men may experience only mild symptoms, while others may experience more severe symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms of low testosterone in men include:

 

• Decreased sex drive
• Erectile dysfunction
• Fatigue
• Muscle loss
• Weight gain
• Mood changes
• Decreased bone density
• Increased risk of heart disease and stroke

Other symptoms of low testosterone in men may include:

 

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Difficulty concentrating
• Decreased memory
• Irritability
• Depression
• Loss of body hair
• Shrinking testicles

It is important to note that not all men with low testosterone will experience all of these symptoms. Additionally, the severity of symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. If you are a man and are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to talk to your doctor.

 

Treatment for Male Menopause

 

There is no cure for andropause, but there are treatments that can help to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. These are essentially treatments for low testosterone.

 

• Testosterone replacement therapy:

  Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a treatment that involves taking testosterone to replace the testosterone that the body is no longer producing. TRT can be effective in relieving symptoms of andropause, but it is important to weigh the risks and benefits before starting treatment.

• Lifestyle changes:

  Lifestyle changes that can help to improve testosterone levels and alleviate symptoms of andropause include:

  • Eating a healthy diet
  • Exercising regularly
  • Getting enough sleep
  • Managing stress
  • Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
• Medications:

  There are several medications that can be used to treat specific symptoms of andropause, such as erectile dysfunction and fatigue. However, these drugs should be prescribed by a doctor after a complete health assessment. Do not self-medicate.

Not all men with andropause need treatment. If their symptoms are mild and do not significantly impact their life, they may choose to not pursue treatment. However, if symptoms are severe or are causing significant distress, it is best to talk with a doctor and chart out the right course of treatment.