When a woman permanently stops having her period, she reaches a stage of life called menopause. Women experience various hormonal, physical, and emotional changes during this period. Now, doctors are noticing that men are also experiencing some of the same symptoms that women have during perimenopause and menopause.
Commonly referred to as male menopause, andropause is an age-related reduction of testosterone in men. According to experts, male menopause involves a drop in testosterone production in males assigned at birth (MAAB) who are aged 50 or older.
“The concept of “male menopause,” often referred to as andropause or late-onset hypogonadism, is real, though it is quite different from female menopause. While female menopause is marked by a clear and relatively abrupt decline in reproductive hormones, typically around the age of 50, male menopause involves a more gradual decline in testosterone levels, starting as early as the age of 30-40,” Dr. Vikas Jain, HOD & Consultant – Urology, Manipal Hospital Dwarka told Financial Express.com.
What are the symptoms of male menopause?
The symptoms of male menopause include:
- Decreased libido and sexual function.
- Fatigue and decreased energy levels.
- Mood changes, including irritability and depression.
- Loss of muscle mass and strength.
- Increased body fat.
- Decreased bone density, which can lead to osteoporosis.
- Cognitive changes, such as difficulty concentrating or memory issues.
What are the causes of male menopause?
The primary cause is the gradual decline in testosterone production. According to Dr. Jain, unlike the more abrupt hormonal changes in women, this decline in men happens slowly over several decades.
“Other factors can exacerbate the condition, including obesity, chronic illnesses (like diabetes), certain medications, and lifestyle factors such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption,” Dr. Jain told Financial Express.com.
How male menopause is diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves a combination of symptom assessment and blood tests to measure testosterone levels. According to Dr. Jain, other potential causes of symptoms, such as thyroid issues or depression, need to be ruled out.
How male menopause is treated?
Lifestyle modification plays a crucial in alleviating the symptoms of male menopause. Dr. Jain maintains that lifestyle changes, such as improved diet, regular exercise, stress management, and sufficient sleep, can help alleviate symptoms.
“Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) might be recommended for men with significantly low testosterone levels and substantial symptoms. However, TRT comes with potential risks and side effects, including cardiovascular issues and prostate health concerns, so it must be closely monitored by a healthcare provider,” he said.
There is some controversy regarding the use of the term “male menopause” because it implies a direct parallel to female menopause, which isn’t entirely accurate given the differences in the hormonal decline process, he highlighted.
The condition is also sometimes underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed because the symptoms can overlap with other common aging-related issues, Dr. Jain pointed out.
“Male menopause is a real phenomenon, though it manifests differently from female menopause. If you suspect you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of male menopause, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management,” he told Financial Express.com.