As women approach a certain age, typically around 50, their bodies undergo several changes during menopause. This causes fluctuations in hormones, and while menopause is generally associated with women, men can also experience a similar problem as they get older. This is often referred to as andropause.
Let’s take a look at what is male menopause, how it works, what happens, and what you can do.
What is Andropause?
Andropause in men is a term that refers to low testosterone levels. It’s also sometimes referred to as late-onset hypogonadism. Menopause in women is generally a relatively rapid hormonal change, while andropause in men is much more gradual and happens later in life.
Approximately 30 percent of men in their 50s will experience reduced testosterone-related changes in their bodies. In contrast, the majority of women will experience full menopause between the ages of 45 and 55. Testosterone, an androgen sex hormone, plays a vital role in the body during puberty, such as deepening the voice and developing the penis and testes.
It is essential to know that testosterone not only regulates a man’s sex drive and sperm production but is vital for fat distribution, muscle mass and strength, red blood cell production, and mood.
Testosterone levels begin to decline slightly around age thirty and continue to decrease gradually with age. Unfortunately, some men will experience an unhealthy drop in this vital hormone, which is why it is important to have testosterone levels checked when signs of hypogonadism show up.
Late-onset hypogonadism can cause physical, sexual, and psychological problems, which typically worsen with age.
What are the Symptoms of Andropause in Men?
When it comes to asking if there is a male menopause, understanding the symptoms is essential. This can help men know what to look for and identify declining testosterone levels before they become a health problem.
- Breast enlargement
- Decreased sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Low sperm count and infertility
- Bone weakness and loss of bone mass, osteoporosis
- Irritability or difficulty concentrating
- Decrease in hair growth on the face and body
- Depression and lower self-confidence
- Loss of lean muscle mass and feelings of weakness
- Decreased energy, fatigue, and loss of motivation
- Difficulty sleeping
- Lack of mental clarity
How to Reduce the Decline of Testosterone As You Age
We’ve answered the question, can males get menopause?
Now, we need to take a closer look at what men can do to reduce the decline of testosterone over time, thus potentially preventing andropause.
If you don’t have a hormonal condition that’s contributing to your decline in testosterone levels, there are natural ways to help boost testosterone. It is essential, before starting testosterone replacement therapy, or TRT, to address diet and lifestyle choices because these choices strongly impact testosterone production.
- Exercise regularly.
- Eat a healthy diet that avoids processed foods.
- Get enough sleep.
- De-stress your life.
- Avoid unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as alcohol, smoking, and drug use.
These are essential lifestyle changes to consider when discussing menopause in males and exploring how men can reduce their risks.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy for Andropause
Testosterone replacement therapy is another option and may be needed for someone with excessively low levels of testosterone.
To determine if TRT is right for you, consult with a trained healthcare professional for a test. It’s not a treatment that will be prescribed for mild low testosterone. You’ll need to get laboratory tests done and present with symptoms of clinical hypogonadism before you could be considered a candidate.
Testosterone therapy for reducing the clinical symptoms of hypogonadism comes in a variety of forms.
- Oral: There is an FDA-approved oral testosterone replacement preparation that is absorbed by the intestinal lymphatic system.
- Gel: Several gels and solutions are available. Because the body can absorb testosterone through the skin, some are rubbed into the upper arm or shoulder, while others are applied to the front inner thigh.
- Injection: Testosterone injections are given in a muscle or under the skin. This often includes long-acting intramuscular injections, such as testosterone undecanoate.
- Nasal: A testosterone gel can be pumped into the nostrils. This option reduces the risk that medication will be transferred to another person through skin contact. Nasal-delivered testosterone must be applied twice in each nostril, three times daily, and may be more inconvenient than other delivery methods.
Benefits of Hormone Therapy For Men
TRT may provide certain quality-of-life benefits for men when they have clinical hypogonadism.
To truly understand the benefits, it’s important to consider the roles that testosterone plays in the body.
Adult men need testosterone for:
- Reproductive function and sexual libido
- Building muscle bulk
- Maintaining healthy levels of red blood cells
- Maintaining bone density
- Maintaining energy levels
- Maintaining brain function, memory, and concentration
- Maintaining a positive mood and attitude
How Can Androgenix Help?’
A lot of people want to know if males can experience menopause. The short answer is yes, and navigating this period in life can feel difficult. It doesn’t have. With the proper treatment, your hormones can come back into balance, reducing the symptoms that develop when you have low testosterone.
Androgenix specializes in creating highly personalized treatment programs for men who experience andropause. We can help you get a better view of your existing hormone levels and determine if low testosterone is the reason behind your symptoms. Our team then develops a personalized program to help you get your vitality and life back. To get started with your journey, reach out to schedule your first appointment.
