Andropause: a menopause for men?

The andropause is known colloquially as the “male change”. So is there a male menopause? Strictly speaking, no. While men do experience hormonal changes as they age, this progresses differently from the female menopause. That’s why the actual existence of the andropause is scientifically disputed.

Men and the andropause: hormones

In men, androgens have an impact on male sexual characteristics – with sex hormones contributing to the creation and functioning of these. Male hormone levels start to change from as early as the age of 30: levels of testosterone and other androgens start to decrease. 

Note that testosterone levels drop slowly and never disappear completely, remaining within the normal ranges for the majority of men, even in old age.  

Men can experience a range of andropause symptoms:

• Mental health: the andropause can impact mental health in men. Those affected complain of concentration problems and are more sensitive to stress. Other symptoms experienced by men in the andropause include mood swings, listlessness and depressive moods.
• Sexuality: the andropause also affects sexuality in men. Sexual desire starts to decrease. The andropause can lead to erectile dysfunction in men, too.
• Sweating: when affected by the andropause, men exhibit increased perspiration. In some cases, sufferers can also experience hot flushes.
• Joint pain: the andropause is often associated with bone and joint pain, since bone density in men falls during the andropause.
• Reduced muscle strength: the proportion of fat in the body increases while the percentage of muscle decreases. 

When does the male menopause start? Around half of men over the age of 50 notice the andropause and the associated symptoms. Hormonal changes aren’t always obvious. In some cases, the hormone level drops just slightly, so the symptoms are very mild or there are no symptoms at all.

The male menopause: how long it lasts

The duration of the andropause varies from one man to another and can last up to seven years. It depends on how fast and how significantly the hormone level drops. 

If any of the typical symptoms become apparent, it is worth getting your hormone levels tested. In these instances, there is a chance of your hormone levels being too low, so your doctor will perform a blood test. If the test reveals a lack of testosterone, the test has to be performed at least once more. Even in healthy men, around one in seven levels tested are slightly lower than they should be due to normal fluctuations. The costs of a testosterone test will be covered by your health insurance company, provided this is prescribed by a doctor. This test will be accompanied by a physical examination (of the testicles, for instance). 

You should talk to your doctor if you think you might have low testosterone. This can help you find out whether you are eligible for a test.

There are various treatment options for men experiencing the male menopause. Andropause treatments are generally aimed at alleviating the symptoms. Sometimes a medication-based approach is indicated.

Andropause: medication

If androgen levels fall sharply and cause associated symptoms, one potential approach is treatment with hormonal preparations to increase androgen levels. 

If necessary, your doctor will prescribe a potency supplement. Please note: under no circumstances should you try to obtain preparations yourself. They may have serious side effects for your cardiovascular system, among other things.

Andropause: these everyday tips can help

Be active and change your daily routine. Remember the following tips:

• Maintain your social connections. Meet up with friends and do something together.
• Avoid stress. Try relaxation methods like yoga or meditation.
• Try couples therapy if your relationship is suffering due to the andropause. This will help you cope better with any potential pressure to perform sexually. 
• If you are affected by mood swings and depressive moods, psychotherapy may help. This can help you to avoid or treat depression.

Issues during the andropause are caused by a shortage of androgens like testosterone. While there is no way of preventing a lack of testosterone, you can reduce the risk of this by bearing the following points in mind:

• Incorporate sufficient exercise into your everyday life. For instance, if you work at a desk, exercise during your lunch break. You could also go for a short walk every day, or take the stairs instead of the lift.
• Make sure you have a balanced diet. Eat fresh fruit and vegetables as well as wholegrain products daily. Opt for water and unsweetened tea.
• Enjoy alcohol in moderation and avoid nicotine.
• Avoid becoming overweight. 
  

The andropause (or male menopause) is a natural stage of life. There are methods that can be used to alleviate the associated symptoms. Do you suffer from any of these? Discuss any symptoms with your doctor, stay active and look after yourself.