Menopause isn’t just for women! Uncover the truth about male menopause: its symptoms, causes, and how to navigate this phase of life gracefully!
While menopause is typically associated with women, there is ongoing confusion about whether the same condition occurs in men.
Our blog will unveil the concept of male menopause by focusing on the following points:
Table of Contents
The validity of the concept of male menopause has been debated, so it’s critical to investigate it and comprehend the potential effects it could have on men’s health and well-being.
Let’s start exploring this controversy:
Understanding Male Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations play a vital role in the process of male menopause. Since oestrogen reduction is associated with women’s menopause, the decline of testosterone is responsible for menopause in males.
This hormone is crucial for maintaining a healthy body composition in men, including bone density, sexual function, and mood management.
Other hormones, besides testosterone, are also involved in male hormonal changes. For instance, men also have small amounts of oestrogen, which is typically associated with women. Male menopause symptoms may get worsened by an imbalance in testosterone-to-oestrogen ratio.
Male Menopause
Andropause is another name for menopause in males. It is a biological process that typically affects middle-aged and older men similar to the way women go through menopause. Male menopause can cause a variety of physical, sexual, and psychological symptoms, although all men do not experience the same degree of hormonal changes.
As males enter their 30s or 40s, their testosterone levels begin to decline at the ratio of 1% per year. This decline results in a number of physical changes, including reduced power and mass in the muscles, increased body fat, and slowed hair growth.
What Indicates Male Menopause?
Male menopause is characterised by various physical and emotional changes. While each person’s symptoms are unique, the following are some typical signs to look out for:
Physical Changes
Andropause in males can bring the following physical symptoms, though their severity may vary:
Lower Energy Levels and Fatigue
Men may feel a noticeable decline in their energy and increased feelings of tiredness and exhaustion.
Loss of Muscle Mass and Strength
They may observe a reduction in muscle size and strength, which makes physical activity more difficult.
Increased Abdominal Fat
Male menopause can also bring changes in body composition by accumulating fat around the abdomen.
Reduced Hair Growth and Thinning Hair
During andropause, there may be possible hair loss or thinning, as well as a decline in hair thickness and density.
Increased Night Sweats
Night sweats, often associated with male menopause sweating, can disrupt sleep and leave men waking up drenched in perspiration.
Sexual Changes
Male menopause is also marked by several sexual changes, here are some common signs that may be experienced by men:
Decreased Libido (sex drive)
In andropause, males may have less of a desire for sexual activity and reduced interest in having intimate experiences.
Erectile Dysfunction
Males may encounter challenges in obtaining or sustaining firm erections necessary for satisfactory sexual activity.
Reduced Spontaneous Morning Erections
There may be a reduction in the frequency of morning erections or their absence, which are typically linked to healthy erectile function.
Emotional and Psychological Changes
Male menopause age also brings some emotional changes. Let’s have a look at some psychological symptoms that are often experienced by men:
Irritability and Mood Swings
Refers to frequent changes in mood and heightened irritability, leading to unpredictable emotional states.
Feelings of Depression
Andropause’s signs and symptoms may also be related to other diseases, so it is best to speak with a healthcare professional if you experience persistent feelings of sadness, a sense of hopelessness, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, and a decrease in motivation.
Experiencing ‘Brain fog’
Men may experience cognitive issues such as struggling to stay focused and have trouble processing and remembering information.
Increased Anxiety or Nervousness
Another psychological symptom is feelings of worry, restlessness, or unease, potentially accompanied by physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat or sweating.
It is crucial to talk with a healthcare provider for a precise diagnosis.
Also Read: What to Expect When You Begin Hormone Replacement Therapy
What is the Duration of Male Menopause?
This stage may extend for several years or a few months. In contrast to female menopause, which typically happens around a specific age range, male menopause is a gradual process that lasts for several years.
According to Harvard sources, andropause discomfort may persist for 15 to 20 years. However, it’s crucial to remember that variables like general health, lifestyle decisions, genetics, and individual variations in hormonal changes can affect the severity and duration of symptoms.
Male Menopause Treatment
If you are suffering from male menopause symptoms, you don’t have to worry, because you can use some treatment options to ease your symptoms and improve your overall well-being. Let’s have a look at some:
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
The symptoms of andropause may be treated with HRT in the form of testosterone replacement treatment. In order to raise hormone levels, this therapy involves prescribing testosterone in a variety of forms, including gels, patches, injections, or pellets.
Lifestyle Changes
If you adopt a healthy lifestyle, you can manage male menopause symptoms. For instance, a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management techniques, and enough sleep can all help you feel more energised, stabilise your mood, and make you feel better.
Psychological Support
Seeking therapy or counseling can also be helpful in navigating the andropause journey. You can get advice from a mental health specialist on how to deal with your sadness, mood swings, and other emotional problems.
Medications
Other than HRT and lifestyle changes, some symptoms of male menopause may be treated with medicines. For instance, medications for erectile dysfunction or antidepressants for managing depression or anxiety can be prescribed.
To choose the best course of treatment based on an individual’s unique symptoms, and preferences, it is crucial to speak with a healthcare professional.
Final Remarks
Despite ongoing controversy, male menopause is an important phase of change in a man’s life.
Overall health may be significantly impacted by the physical, sexual, and psychological issues connected with this phase.
Men can navigate this transitional stage with greater resiliency and seize opportunities for personal growth by addressing the symptoms through a variety of treatment options, changing their lifestyles, and getting emotional support.
Remember that being successful during male menopause requires information and dedicated management.
FAQs
Is there a male menopause?
Yes, andropause, or male menopause, is a condition that affects ageing men and is characterised by hormonal changes and related symptoms.
Is male menopause real?
Yes, male menopause is a debated but real condition involving hormonal changes and associated symptoms in ageing men.
How many years does male menopause last?
Menopause may last for 15 to 20 years, according to certain reports.
Does male menopause include hot flashes?
Yes, males may experience hot flashes due to a severe lack of testosterone, which can happen during andropause.
Why is there no male equivalent to menopause?
Due to the fundamental biological differences and unique hormonal processes between men and women, there isn’t a direct male counterpart to menopause.
