Is Male Menopause Real?
Hormonal changes can affect men physically and emotionally
Hormonal changes can affect men physically and emotionally
Menopause is often associated with hot flashes and mood swings in women. So, do hormonal changes with similar symptoms occur in men as they age? Is male menopause a real medical issue?
The answer is yes. But male menopause is just one easy way to describe age-related changes in male hormone levels.
Clinically, this phase in men is often called testosterone deficiency, andropause, late-onset hypogonadism or androgen decline in the aging male. These terms describe a natural age-related drop in testosterone levels. However, only some men develop symptoms such as fatigue or mood changes.
“Not every man will experience this. But the symptoms are very real,” says Luigi Simone, MD, a family medicine physician at Scripps Clinic Encinitas with a special focus on men’s health. “There’s a reason it’s called male menopause. It’s because it can produce many of the same symptoms as female menopause.”
In many cases, these symptoms may have nothing to do with testosterone deficiency, but with other conditions. To diagnose low testosterone and rule out other conditions, a health care provider conducts a physical exam, reviews medical history and orders blood tests.
Hormonal changes in men
Male and female menopause differ significantly in their biological processes. Women's menopause marks the end of menstruation and the ability to conceive, due to a sharp decline in estrogen and progesterone levels. Men do not experience a sudden hormonal shift. Instead, they undergo a gradual testosterone decline.
Both men and women can experience mood changes and reduced sexual function. However, the timing and intensity of these symptoms can significantly vary.
“These midlife changes are often more subtle in men than in women,” says Dr. Simone. “Women experience a complete shutdown of ovarian hormone production at menopause. The decline in testosterone in men is slow.”
Why do men experience low testosterone?
Testosterone is a key hormone responsible for the development of male sexual characteristics. It’s normal for levels to decline in men as they age. The process is gradual, not sudden. After 40, levels begin to decline by about 1 percent every year.
Several factors can contribute to this decline, including genetics, lifestyle choices and overall health. Chronic diseases, such as obesity and diabetes, can lower testosterone levels. Medications can also have an impact.
Male menopause symptoms
Men experiencing symptoms related to declining testosterone may notice various physical and emotional changes, including:
- Erectile dysfunction, or inability to achieve or sustain an erection
- A decreased sex drive and infertility
- Depression, fatigue or insomnia
- Increased body fat, reduced muscle mass and decreased bone density.
Knowing when to see a doctor for testosterone deficiency can be challenging. Symptoms like low sex drive and weight gain may not only mean hormone problems.
Older men with heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes can also have these symptoms.
Doctors can order tests to rule out any medical issues that may be causing these symptoms. A blood test can also confirm if a man has low testosterone and if treatment is needed.
Doctors often find these issues during regular check-ups. Catching these problems early can help with successful treatment.
What are treatments for low testosterone?
Treatment options for low testosterone may include testosterone replacement therapy. This type of therapy can help improve mood, energy levels and sex drive. However, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Your doctor can help determine if it’s suitable based on your individual health profile. It’s important to discuss potential risks and side effects. Replacing testosterone, for example, may worsen existing prostate cancer and increase the risk of heart disease.
Lifestyle changes
For some men, adopting certain lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms without needing testosterone replacement therapy. It’s important to consider all treatment options carefully.
“I encourage every man to ask his doctor about ways to manage stress, optimize health and enjoy life to its fullest,” Dr. Simone says.
Here are some actionable lifestyle tips:
- Exercise regularly
- Eat a balanced diet
- Get enough sleep
- Manage stress effectively
- Avoid smoking and excess alcohol
Aging well
Aging is a normal part of life, but it doesn’t have to be frightening. Understanding how your body changes can make aging easier.
Having a positive attitude about health is important. Regular check-ups and screenings can help find and fix problems early.
“I encourage every man to ask his doctor about ways to manage stress, optimize health and enjoy life to its fullest,” Dr. Simone says.
There are so many things men can do at home as well, he adds.
“Good health is not just about eating right and getting exercise. It’s just as important to have a good laugh, enjoy some alone time and connect with friends,” Dr. Simone says. “Having sex is also good for your mind and body because it relieves stress and helps to keep your prostate healthy.”