What is Andropause?
Andropause, also known as male menopause, is a natural condition that can affect men typically between the ages of 40 and 55. It occurs due to a gradual drop in testosterone levels that happens as men age. Here are some key facts about andropause:
- Main symptoms include low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, decreased energy, mood changes, loss of muscle mass, weight gain, and hot flashes. However, symptoms can vary dramatically from one man to another.
- It's not a true "menopause" since men continue producing sperm, unlike women going through menopause who stop releasing eggs.
- Lower testosterone is a natural part of aging - testosterone peaks in the late teens/early 20s, then slowly declines. But in some men, testosterone loss is more extreme.
- Main causes are aging and changes in the testes. Other factors like chronic illnesses and obesity can also contribute.
- Diagnosis involves having a doctor review symptoms and order blood tests to check hormone levels, including testosterone, FSH, and LH.
- Treatments focus on replacing testosterone via gels, injections, patches, or pellets to help alleviate symptoms. Making lifestyle changes like eating healthy, exercising, reducing stress, and improving sleep can also help manage hormone changes.
The good news is that while a drop in testosterone can produce unwelcome symptoms, andropause itself is not a "disease" per se. Not all men go through difficult hormone changes. Tracking symptoms, getting tested, making lifestyle improvements, and considering bioidentical testosterone therapy under a doctor's supervision can help men better navigate this transition.