Andropause, also known as male menopause, is a gradual age-related decline in testosterone and other male sex hormones that leads to symptoms similar to female menopause. Just as menopause signifies the end of fertility in women, andropause signals declining sexual function and vitality in men. However, it is important to note that andropause is not an official medical condition like menopause.
Some key facts about andropause:
The clinical presentation of andropause may include:
The symptoms tend to develop gradually over years and may go unnoticed at first. Getting your testosterone levels tested is key to diagnosis.
Andropause occurs due to age-related changes in the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis. Our sex hormones, including testosterone, are regulated by this complex system.
As men age, the testes become less responsive to stimulation from pituitary hormones that trigger testosterone production. Additionally, levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) increase, further reducing usable testosterone levels.
Besides natural aging, contributing factors include:
Genetics may also play a role in who develops more dramatic symptoms.
If symptoms of andropause are impacting quality of life, see a healthcare provider. They will take a full medical history, conduct exams, and order blood work to measure testosterone levels:
Testing may need to be done more than once to establish if declining testosterone is truly the cause of symptoms.
If low testosterone and bothersome andropause symptoms are confirmed, testosterone therapy is often prescribed. Options include:
Over the counter testosterone boosters are not proven to effectively raise levels.
Managing andropause is crucial for maintaining men's quality of life as they age. If you notice potential symptoms, schedule a testosterone screening and discuss treatment options suited for you. With proper testing and hormone therapy, the effects of andropause can often be reversed or greatly reduced.