Male menopause, also known as andropause or late-onset hypogonadism, refers to a gradual decline in testosterone levels in men as they age. While it shares some similarities with menopause in women, there are significant differences.
What is the definition of andropause?
The common name for andropause is male menopause. It explains an age-related decline in testosterone levels in cisgender men. Fatigue, sleeplessness, and mood swings are the common symptoms of andropause. It can potentially impair fertility. Male menopause is defined as a decline in testosterone production in males assigned at birth who are 50 years or older. It is typically associated with hypogonadism. Both illnesses include low testosterone levels and comparable symptoms. Get in touch with the best Sexologist in Amritsar for treatment.
Reasons for andropause.
Several variables can contribute to male menopause:
- Age: Aging is the leading cause of male menopause. Testosterone levels naturally fall with age, usually starting in the late 40s or early 50s, though the rate and extent of decline vary by individual.
- Hormonal Changes: The testes produce the principal male sex hormone, testosterone. As men age, their testes increasingly produce less testosterone.
- Health conditions: Certain health issues can cause or intensify male menopause symptoms. Obesity, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, hypothyroidism, chronic stress, sleep apnea, and pituitary gland abnormalities are all potential causes.
- Lifestyle: Unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as sedentary behaviour, poor food, excessive alcohol use, smoking, and chronic stress, can all hurt testosterone levels and increase male menopause symptoms.
- Medications and therapies: Certain medications and therapies can lower testosterone levels and worsen male menopause symptoms.
- Genetic Factors: Genetics may influence the rate and severity of testosterone reduction with age.
- Environmental Toxins and Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals: Exposure to environmental toxins and EDCs can influence hormone levels and lead to male menopause.
Symptoms of the menopause
Male menopause can cause physical, sexual, and psychological problems. They typically worsen as you get older. They can include:
- Low energy
- Depression or sadness
- Decreased motivation
- Lowered self-confidence
- Difficulty concentrating
- Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
- Increased body fat
- Reduced muscle mass and feelings of physical weakness
- Gynecomastia, or the development of breasts
- Decreased bone density
- Erectile dysfunction
- Reduced libido
- Infertility
What are the treatment plans for male menopause?
The most common treatment option is testosterone replacement therapy. However, other methods may be considered depending on the individual’s needs and preferences. Here are several treatments for male menopause:
- Testosterone Replacement Therapy: It is given testosterone by injections, patches, gels, implants, or oral pills to return testosterone levels to normal.
- Lifestyle Changes: Healthy lifestyle changes can help alleviate male menopausal symptoms and enhance overall health. This includes regular exercise, a healthy weight, and a well-balanced diet high in fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains.
- Treatment of Underlying concerns: It is critical to address any underlying health concerns that may be contributing to male menopause symptoms, such as obesity, diabetes, thyroid abnormalities, sleep apnea, or depression.
- Psychological Counseling: Men who are experiencing emotional or psychological symptoms of male menopause, such as depression, anxiety, mood swings, or difficulties coping with life changes, may benefit from counseling or therapy.
- Medication Adjustments: If male menopause symptoms are caused or exacerbated by medications such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, or corticosteroids, changing or quitting these medications with the advice of a healthcare specialist may help ease symptoms.
- Alternative Therapies: Some men may choose alternative therapies or complementary ways to manage male menopause symptoms, such as herbal supplements, acupuncture, mindful meditation, or yoga.
If you are facing the condition of male menopause, then contact the best sexologist in Jalandhar for the treatment of andropause and other sexological conditions. Visit the best hospital to meet a sexologist, Sanjivani Health Center.