TRT is usually given by testosterone gel, cream, or long-acting injections. It is increasingly being recognised as important to a wide range of health-related areas in men. Research is showing it also helps maintain psychological health. Get valuable information and support from our community and team of menopause specialists. Testosterone is a hormone that’s synonymous with masculinity and isn’t just about muscle and libido. Self-treatment may result in serious side-effects, such as impotence and infertility. In addition, there are several other conditions where this therapy may be unsuitable, such as liver and heart diseases. They are prostate cancer and breast cancer in male. Most men can manage the changes smoothly when they have more understanding about the process and better psychological support. Back in the day, interest in treating the symptoms of the “male climacteric” with testosterone was probably influenced by drug companies’ promotion of their new product. If their symptoms improved with testosterone treatment, it was assumed that a lack of testosterone was the cause of symptoms in the first place. He claimed miraculous improvements in his health and wellbeing from these treatments, which we now know could not have contained any testosterone (it doesn’t dissolve in water). Once started, testosterone therapy is usually continued for life with strict monitoring. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Men above age 45 take approximately 5 times longer to achieve a pregnancy compared with men less than 25 years of age. Andropause tends to be ignored as the symptoms are often confused with stress or other causes. In addition, the main difference is that men do not lose fertility with andropause, but only see it diminished. The sexuality that has been “sold” to us is that the ultimate purpose of sexual intercourse is penetration. In men, it does not imply a complete cessation of reproductive function, whereas in women it does. If your doctor proposes this treatment, consider the benefits and drawbacks before deciding. Many men are ashamed to discuss certain sexual matters. The hormone helps to build protein and is essential for normal sexual behavior and produce erections. Testosterone ("the male hormone") is a substance produced in the testes and in the adrenal glands that has a unique effect on a man's total body. One of the reasons is that menopause has a clear signpost marked by the cessation of menstruation, while andropause does not. It is common for partners to sense changes in emotional closeness, confidence, or resilience as men move through midlife. This leads to a sharp decline in oestrogen and progesterone and the end of fertility. It also avoids misleading comparisons and supports informed conversations with healthcare professionals. Male menopause is also known as andropause and is caused by hormonal changes, similar in scope to the menopause experienced by women. If you’re looking to naturally boost your testosterone levels, try the male hormone supplement MedTesto from Élan Healthcare. Many men will want to use a testosterone therapy treatment to try to increase their testosterone levels. This is why andropause is often called male menopause, because of how similar the symptoms are to female menopause. The ovaries stop producing eggs, and the production of estrogen declines. But while menopause has launched a thousand hot-flash jokes, men have their own version. Research indicates that only a minority of men develop a symptom pattern that meets strict diagnostic criteria for andropause. Sexual changes are among the most consistently reported features of clinically significant testosterone deficiency. These emotional changes are real and meaningful, but they aren’t always caused by hormones alone. Andropause is a less marked process, there are no such abrupt mood changes and the symptoms appear very gradually over time. New oral testosterone medications have also recently entered the market as an option for TRT. Testosterone injections, administered every few weeks, are effective but can cause hormone level fluctuations. The new year is an ideal time for a health checkup. They can test your hormone levels and assist you in finding the right solution for your body. The pituitary gland plays an important role in the production of androgens and can be the cause of a man’s andropause symptoms. Hypogonadism and the decline in androgens can begin as early as 40 when levels will begin to drop for a lot of men. This is because testosterone is vital for sperm count and healthy sperm motility. Embracing Healthy Aging: Thriving Beyond Andropause Regardless of symptom presence or severity, andropause is a medical condition that causes many health problems and should be treated. Some men will experience severe disruptions in their quality of life, while others will have only minor and annoying symptoms. In fact, this change is typically caused by age-related loss of the hormones testosterone and DHEA. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment or if you have questions regarding a medical condition. The symptoms are real, but they are non-specific. Tiredness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, decreased libido, weaker erections and decreased muscle mass in middle-aged men have been recognised for well over 100 years. All the resources you need to provide the best care for male patients. The men’s health topics we’re talking about. How to find health information The terms andropause and male menopause are often used interchangeably, but one is a medical term and the other is a label people use. However, it is a fact that normal aging usually involves a gradual reduction in the levels of testosterone in most males. However, it is imperative to note that it is not recommended to reverse or rather ease the effects of the normal aging process, or to restore vitality, particularly because hormone replacement therapy could potentially result in adverse effects. The decline of androgens in men can be caused by hypogonadism. Male andropause can be slow and happen over time and is not usually solely due to the ageing process. However, men will not suddenly experience the severe and inevitable drop in androgen production the way women can expect. Sex hormones are what give men their male characteristics. Menopause is something that many people think of as a women-only condition, but do men go through menopause as well? The extent to which an age-dependent decline in androgen levels leads to health problems that might affect or alter the quality of life remains under debate. The magnitude of the decline in testosterone with age and the prevalence of older men with low testosterone levels have not been well established. It seems that, as in case of women and menopause, the first-line treatment consists in lifestyle changes. However, only the three sexual symptoms had a syndromic association with decreased testosterone levels. These two conditions both cause changes in male hormone levels, including a gradual decrease in testosterone levels. The NHS suggests that although testosterone levels fall as men age, the decline is steady at about 1% a year from around the age of 30 to 40. Male menopause, or andropause, is the decline in male hormone production. So if a man goes to get their testosterone checked at 4 pm it's almost always going to be low. One of the things that's really tricky is we don't know what the normal testosterone is in a 20 year old, 30 year old, 40 year old, 50 year old. Do men ever stop producing testosterone? Male menopause affects more than five million men. The World Congress on the Aging Male in Prague (2004) and the World Health Organisation in Paris (2003) described male menopause in two definitive terms, namely, late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) and the Aging Male Syndrome (AMS). To determine the correlation between age and testosterone levels, the Pearson correlation was used. Handelsmann is of the opinion that the reasons for testosterone therapy are often non-medical, and that the marketing of testosterone treatments has been aggressive and effective, especially in the United States, where the sales volume of testosterone preparations keeps rising, doubling between 2005 and 2010 . A trial of testosterone is indicated for patients with total testosterone levels of between 8 and 12 nmol/l, if there is evidence of clinical symptoms, and the free testosterone level is less than 225 pmol/l . According to currently available studies, proper age-dependent reference ranges for testosterone do not exist and the vast majority of the published guidelines propose the cut-off value of 10 nmol/l . Even then it was obvious that not all men, unlike women and the post-menopausal estrogen drop, have testosterone deficiency. The management did not aim to compensate the deficiency but to identify a group of patients with possible beneficial therapeutic effects after testosterone administration. To start off with, it’s worth knowing that while it may be known as ‘the male menopause’, men do not go through a direct equivalent of the menopause. Here Dr Clive Morrison of the Centre for Men’s Health tells us everything you need to know about the andropause and ways to manage its symptoms. Young men often have testosterone levels exceeding 1000 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dl). When men reach about 40, testosterone levels usually begin to drop about one percent a year. Testosterone impacts numerous things in your body — meaning if you fail to treat a low testosterone condition, you are likely to face a number of health problems ranging from bone density to heart issues. Aging men can also experience such symptoms, along with dwindling energy, osteoporosis, fading sex drive, among other myriads of problems. Male menopause doesn’t have to derail your life and you don’t have to suffer in silence. What Our Patients Are Saying... This multi-center study, the European Male Ageing Study (EMAS), recruited 3369 men between the ages of 40 and 79 years (mean 59.7 years), who were invited to undergo health assessment by questionnaire, physical and cognitive performance tests, and blood tests for biochemical and hormone measurements. Current analyses indicate that several major questions about the importance of the ageing-related decline of testosterone production still remain unanswered. They assumed that the diagnosis of LOH ought to be made if low testosterone levels coincide with the above-mentioned clinical symptom. Most men who experience age-related testosterone health problems will see male menopause symptoms and signs during their late forties to early fifties, but they can start any time from the age of 30 onwards."There's no question that sexual function declines with age, and that's probably normal aging," Eckel said.Sex hormones are what give men their male characteristics.The word derives from the ancient Greek word ‘andro’ (man or male).If you suspect that you may be suffering from symptoms of testosterone deficiency, it is high time you talk to your doctor and schedule an evaluation.If the results suggest you have a testosterone deficiency, you may be referred to an endocrinologist, a specialist in hormone problems.But if lower testosterone is accompanied by a loss of muscle, excess fatigue, anemia or profound sexual dysfunction, then the patient should be evaluated by an endocrinologist, he said. "Andropause is part of the aging process, but it isn't a disease on its own." But advice varies on when low levels should be a cause for concern. "It's nothing like menopause, which occurs over a finite period of time." It typically happens around the age of 50 but can begin earlier. The symptoms of andropause and the severity of these symptoms vary from man to man. As a result of this slow decline, many men do not recognize their condition and think it’s just “part of aging.” It doesn’t have to be. It is estimated that nearly 40% of men 45 years of age or older—or about 5 million American men in 2015—are suffering from andropause. Find tailored supplements and gear to help enhance your lifestyle in and out of the bedroom. Male infertility affects up to 50% of couples, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, including hormone tests and semen analysis, fertility outcomes can improve. Andropause is a natural yet often misunderstood phase of a man’s life. At First Point MD, we provide confidential consultations and advanced testing to identify hormonal imbalances quickly. The earlier you address these changes, the more effectively they can be managed. If you’ve noticed unexplained fatigue, weight gain, mood changes, or decreased sexual drive, it’s time to talk to your primary care provider. With the right medical support, men can maintain their strength, energy, and confidence well into later years. Some approaches your healthcare provider might suggest include the following. These strategies can alleviate physical discomforts, support hormonal balance, and provide emotional support. A nutrient-rich diet supports hormonal balance, while stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga can improve mood and sleep quality. On the heels of the VA Database study, the results of a meta-analysis including more than 59 trials and 5,000 male subjects was published. To get the full experience of this website, please update to most recent version. From education to emotional support, we focus on your individual health and wellness. At Henry County Hospital, we’ve been providing compassionate healthcare since 1919. Testosterone therapy is available in a variety of delivery methods including creams, gels, injections, and pellets.Back in the day, interest in treating the symptoms of the “male climacteric” with testosterone was probably influenced by drug companies’ promotion of their new product.Men don't experience menopause in the same way as women, but they do undergo age-related hormonal changes that can affect physical and psychological health.Physician-led, integrative hormone care focuses on identifying root causes, not just age, and supporting healthy hormonal balance over time.The hormone can be administered as a gel that is rubbed into your skin, via a patch that attaches to your skin, or as an injection.They can test your hormone levels and assist you in finding the right solution for your body.Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox! Is there such a thing as a "male menopause"? Andropause is a term used to describe the symptoms and conditions some men experience after the age of 40 as their testosterone production decreases. Even though hormone levels decrease at a slowed rate in men as they age, it can still lead to complications, such as late-onset hypogonadism (LOH). This drop in hormone levels is not as dramatic as women going through menopause. Male menopause: is it a real clinical syndrome? Aging in both men and women is natural and inevitable. As for psychological changes, the most common ones are decreased sexual appetite, insomnia, anxiety, depression, fatigue, apathy, irritability, etc. Further, there is evidence for APA increasing risk of miscarriage, birth defects, and autism. The medical name for this condition is andropause, or androgen deficiency of the aging male (ADAM). Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD) encompasses various symptoms like desire, arousal, orgasmic disorders, and sexual pain, with numerous treatment options available to improve sexual well-being. Diagnosing andropause involves both assessing symptoms and measuring hormone levels. Factors influencing this process include overall health, lifestyle choices, genetics, and the presence of other medical conditions. By age 60, approximately 20% of men have low testosterone levels, increasing to 30% by age 70 and 50% by age 80. Seeking support from a mental health professional can be invaluable in navigating these complex emotions. Many men face emotional challenges during andropause, grappling with feelings of anxiety or depression as they adjust to changes in their bodies and capabilities. However, recognizing these signs is crucial for early intervention and management. However, the onset and progression of andropause can vary widely among individuals. Some conditions can cause this drop in testosterone to occur earlier or more abruptly, such as certain medical conditions or poor lifestyle habits. This decline in testosterone involves mood swings and other emotional, sexual, and physiological symptoms that can range from mild to moderate and can negatively affect the daily lives of many men. Andropause is defined as a decrease in the production of testosterone, a male hormone that is produced in the testicles and adrenal glands and performs estrogen-like functions in women. Andropause, also called male menopause is a disorder that can occur in men as they age over 50. Andropause is a syndrome caused by a decrease in testosterone levels in men due to age. Meanwhile, symptoms like erectile dysfunction, fatigue, low libido, and depression can drastically interfere with your relationships and your sense of self. Many men struggle with the way they look and feel as they age. If you’re on a fertility journey it is important to discuss any concerns or symptoms you might have with your doctor. Genemedics and Dr George have significantly improved my quality of life and also dramatically improved my overall health. At the age of 60, I look and feel better than I ever have in my entire life! If you suspect you are suffering from andropause or testosterone deficiency, you should visit a qualified physician. Unfortunately, andropause is one of the most undertreated medical conditions in the country. If you are suffering from symptoms related to andropause, it’s important to visit a qualified physician who can diagnose and treat the condition. Testosterone, which is vital for the development of male sexual characteristics, increases and then decreases naturally with age. In this article, supported by a provider-led video explanation, we'll explore what andropause is, why it happens, and why proper medical evaluation matters before assuming testosterone alone is the answer. These symptoms are often dismissed as "just getting older," but in reality, they may reflect a broader hormonal and metabolic shift known as andropause. A normal testosterone reading can vary from man to man, and levels fluctuate throughout the day. But if lower testosterone is accompanied by a loss of muscle, excess fatigue, anemia or profound sexual dysfunction, then the patient should be evaluated by an endocrinologist, he said. "Is the risk for cardiovascular disease that occurs in those settings entirely due to lower levels of testosterone? Certainly not." Low testosterone can lead to mood swings, irritability, and even depression. This is why recognizing and addressing hormonal imbalances early is vital for maintaining long-term wellness. This gradual hormonal transition can lead to significant physical, emotional, and psychological changes. The symptoms of male menopause aren’t going away. A small proportion of men (probably less than 1 in 100) have low testosterone levels from hypogonadism (low testicular function), with Klinefelter syndrome being the most common, often undiagnosed, cause. We have known about the negative effect of obesity on testosterone levels in aging men for at least 35 years. The term ‘andropause’ is sometimes used as an alternative to ‘male menopause’, but it’s just as problematic. They could be due to all sorts of things that are far more common than truly low testosterone levels, including poor sleep, poor mental health, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, substance use or medication. Women typically experience hot flushes in their later years — but they aren’t the only ones. With the help of our resources here at BodyLogicMD, you can find the treatment that’s right for your body, help you seize each day with vigor and a renewed sense of wellness. Bioidentical hormones are chemically and structurally identical to the hormones your body produces, which means that they are uniquely compatible with your physiology. Men owe it to themselves to live to their fullest as they age. Current medical treatments for androgen supplementation include oral tablets, intramuscular injections, and scrotal and nonscrotal patches. The most prominent endocrinological alterations with aging are related to the sex steroids, but others, such as growth hormone, melatonin cortisol, and thyroxine, are also affected. The mean testosterone level before treatment was 240.6 ± 125.4 and at 1, 3 and 6 months after treatment the level was raised, so that at the end of the sixth months it was 578.7 ± 141.7. Enter, “male menopause” or “andropause”. Another difference between menopause in women and andropause in men is the age of onset. In addition to hormone treatment, there are other ways to stimulate testosterone production in men and prevent andropause. Once they reach 70 years of age, most of them will have low testosterone levels. Let’s be honest—talking about declining hormones isn’t exactly a popular dinner-table topic. This involves supplementing your body with synthetic testosterone via injections, patches, or gels. Doctors like Dr. Meyer use a combination of tools to determine if you’re experiencing andropause. Andropause is all about testosterone—or the lack of it. So, when levels dip, the effects can ripple across your entire body and mind. If you maintain a healthy weight and are disease-free, your testosterone level should be OK as long as you don’t have impaired testicular function (hypogonadism). ' and 'What is the difference between andropause (menopause in men) and menopause in women? ', 'What are the physical and psychological changes that appear with male menopause? MensLine Australia is a telephone and online counselling service for men with emotional health and relationship concerns. If you or someone you know needs urgent medical attention. Information provided on this website is not a substitute for medical advice Did you find this page helpful? An accurate diagnosis will help you find the right treatment. Yet age-related testosterone decline is a thing, and low T symptoms can impact your quality of life, from low sex drive to weight gain. Patients with critically low testosterone levels are treated with testosterone replacement therapy. Although the decline in testosterone levels in males occurs gradually, it is most prominent between 40 and 55 years. In aging men, the decline in testosterone levels is mainly due to a reduction in Leydig cell mass in the testicles, a dysfunction in the hypothalamic-pituitary homeostatic control, or both. The decline rate can be effectively decelerated by managing health and lifestyle factors. A trial of testosterone is indicated for patients with total testosterone levels of between 8 and 12 nmol/l, if there is evidence of clinical symptoms, and the free testosterone level is less than 225 pmol/l .In men, where it’s a primary hormone, its age-related decline significantly affects sexual function and physical traits.Normal active testosterone levels help to maintain sex drive and fertility in healthy men.Treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life.There are ways to increase low testosterone levels if they are causing bothersome symptoms and affecting quality of life.It can cause symptoms like delayed puberty and small testes.Christopher Patino, APRN, from VidaVital Medical, explains what andropause is, why it happens, and why proper clinical evaluation is essential before starting any treatment. Treatment for low testosterone, also known as testosterone replacement therapy, or TRT, is meant to improve symptoms such as low libido, fatigue and decreased muscle mass. About 2 in 10 men over the age of 60 suffer from low testosterone levels, according to the American Urological Association. Despite lower levels, testosterone in women is vital for bone health, muscle maintenance and energy. In men, where it’s a primary hormone, its age-related decline significantly affects sexual function and physical traits. Testosterone can stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells, which is why hormone therapy to lower testosterone levels is a common treatment for men with prostate cancer. Age-related testosterone decline is best understood as a gradual, multifactorial process influenced by biological ageing, health status, and lifestyle factors. Low testosterone is a recognised clinical condition in which men experience testosterone levels below the normal range alongside specific physical, sexual, or psychological symptoms. Instead, it is characterized by a gradual decline in testosterone. Andropause doesn’t come with the same full stop in reproductive capabilities as observed in women’s menopause. Andropause in men is not a clear-cut end to fertility as observed in women but more about subtle shifts in vitality and health When we talk about menopause, it’s almost always in the context of women. How can I help myself if I have symptoms/signs of andropause? Based on previous knowledge, 32 items from the EMAS questionnaires were considered as possible candidates for symptoms of androgen deficiency. Since testosterone sensitivity may vary in different individuals, it has also been argued that the magnitude of the decrease in serum testosterone concentrations might be a better predictor of LOH than the actual concentrations of total testosterone and bioavailable testosterone. These authors also go back to the notion of ‘individual norm’ of total testosterone. Pellet therapy has become the most sought-after delivery method of bioidentical testosterone replacement therapy, as it mimics the natural secretion process of endogenous testosterone. The findings, released in August 2015, showed that men who restored testosterone to normal levels with testosterone therapy were at a reduced risk of heart attack or stroke. At the 2015 American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists conference, a panel of experts released a position statement citing testosterone therapy as a low risk, high reward treatment option. Low testosterone levels can be treated in a variety of methods, such as testosterone pellets, injections, topical gels, or oral medications like clomiphene citrate, enclomiphene, and oral testosterone. Medical treatments for andropause primarily focus on addressing testosterone deficiency through various methods. Lifestyle modifications are often the first line of defense in managing andropause symptoms. According to a study published in the International Journal of Clinical Practice, nearly 40 percent of men over the age of 45 are affected by low testosterone.Testosterone ("the male hormone") is a substance produced in the testes and in the adrenal glands that has a unique effect on a man's total body.Many men are misinformed about the clinical conditions of andropause and suffer from significant dilemmas regarding this condition.Rather, reproductive aging in men is slow and gradual.Although a slower progression than menopause, andropause can still be responsible for physical and emotional symptoms in men.If stress or anxiety are affecting you, you may benefit from medication or a talking therapy.The Food and Drug Administration requires manufacturers of testosterone products to warn users about a possible increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.Research and recommendations of Lunnefeld postulate to initiate therapy even at a testosterone level of 15 nmol/l and presence of clinical manifestations.Andropause is a natural age-related decline in testosterone and growth hormone levels in men. Low testosterone is linked to loss of muscle mass, which increases the risk of falling injuries.Increased inflammation. Men suffering from andropause are at increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and depression. Low testosterone is closely linked to multiple risk factors for heart disease, including diabetes, metabolic syndrome, high cholesterol, and others.Mental Decline. A possible decline in the sensitivity of testosterone receptors, especially those in the central nervous system (CNS), may explain both the decrease in sexual desire in the ageing male and the need for a larger dose of testosterone when treating hypogonadism . For example, a poor correlation between low testosterone levels and symptoms of late-onset hypogonadism raises the question as to whether the right methods are being used to assess the androgen status of ageing men. The term ‘male menopause’ was first used in 1944 to describe various complaints of ageing men which at least partially mirrored the climacteric symptoms in women. Where this has no health impact, there is no need for treatment. However, not all men with low testosterone will experience these. A number of these can be similar to those experienced by menopausal women, in particular, hot flushes and night sweats. So, what are the symptoms of low testosterone in men? This includes contributing to maintaining healthy and active energy levels and preventing bone breakdown. Over time, this could make it more likely to develop additional medical issues as you age. Quality sleep is essential for hormone regulation and overall health. While hormonal changes are central, a man’s mental state and daily habits significantly shape his experience. Andropause is a complex journey influenced by biological, psychological, and lifestyle factors. This includes men who are prescribed Viagra for erectile dysfunction or antidepressants for depression, both of which can be caused by low testosterone. Instead, many men are misdiagnosed and given an expensive prescription that will only treat their symptoms and possibly cause side effects. The fact is, most physicians are not trained to recognize and treat low testosterone. There is no other known cause for the low testosterone Yes; men go through andropause, which refers to the hormonal changes that men experience later in life. At Alliance Urology, we are here to answer all of your questions and find the best treatment for your health concerns, including symptoms related to andropause. Testosterone replacement therapy, or TRT, uses synthetic testosterone to treat symptoms. The most common treatment for low testosterone is hormone therapy. Men don't experience menopause in the same way as women, but they do undergo age-related hormonal changes that can affect physical and psychological health. There are numerous ways for those suffering from low testosterone levels to alleviate their so-called menopause symptoms. While the impact of decreasing testosterone is well-known in the medical community, many men fail to attribute their symptoms to hormonal change due to the environmental stressors and life changes that are so often present in midlife. The mechanism is as close as possible to menopause (low estrogens, high gonadotropin levels), despite the absence of the inability to produce estrogens, which is characteristic for climacteric women, in men gonad ageing occurs but its function is preserved, and additionally higher bonding to SHBG takes place, what results in lower androgenization. A range of other symptoms was not linked with the male menopause and could be ruled out, such as changes in the sleeping pattern, poor concentration, feeling worthless, nervousness and anxiety, as well as difficulty in getting up from a chair. However, only nine symptoms were confirmed as being related to the total or free testosterone levels, with significant differences between the symptomatic and the asymptomatic groups. Testosterone levels usually decrease gradually throughout adult life, by approximately 1% annually after the age of 30. On the other hand, males usually experience a fairly slower and gradual drop in the level of testosterone circulating in their body, over the course of many years. When females stop ovulating, they usually experience a significant drop in the level of hormones circulating in their system, and this happens in a somewhat shorter period. It is also worth noting that the same cluster of symptoms is also referred to as androgen deficiency, testosterone deficiency, or late-onset hypogonadism. BodyLogicMD affiliated physicians are the most highly trained in natural bioidentical hormone replacement therapy with integrated fitness and nutrition programs which they have been providing to their patients since 2003. If stress or anxiety are affecting you, you may benefit from medication or a talking therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, see your GP. Hypogonadism can also occasionally develop later in life, particularly in men who are obese or have type 2 diabetes. Testosterone treatment has a long history of being touted as a cure-all for men’s ill health. Some men develop disease or receive treatment for health problems, which reduces their testicular function. There is no stage of life when men stop being men. These are terms used to describe changes that some men experience as they get older, and are blamed on low testosterone or “low t”. While the symptoms remained relatively constant, their diagnosis and treatment varied greatly over time. But people sometimes use it to refer to the natural decline in testosterone that happens as you age. There’s no set point where you reach “male menopause” nor a clearly defined transition period into it. So, what’s the deal - is male menopause real? Male menopause isn’t a medical term and some health professionals have even dismissed it as a myth. It is important to address male menopause with proper information. On the other hand, a significant number of men seeking medical help are reluctant to discuss the topic of sexual dysfunctions with their family doctor. Possible mechanisms include a form of hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism, hyperoestrogenemia from peripheral conversion of testosterone which leads to a further reduction in serum and tissue testosterone concentrations, increased deposition of abdominal fat, and progressive hypogonadism . There is still no definite evidence of the role of estradiol, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), cortisol, growth hormone (GH), or insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in erectile dysfunction (ED) . Excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen, can contribute to lower testosterone. Testosterone levels below 275 ng/dL are generally considered low although this can vary among laboratories. Doctors define a normal blood level of total testosterone between 275 to about 900 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). For men older than 65, the guidelines suggest offering therapy "on an individualized basis after explicit discussion of the potential risks and benefits." "Male hypogonadism in the older man is a challenging diagnosis to make," Eckel said, requiring "both biochemical measurements and a good history and physical examination." In younger men, low testosterone can indicate problems with the pituitary gland or the testicles, Thirumavalavan said. Of course, "there are many, many things that could cause those symptoms," he said. Other symptoms can include difficulty concentrating, decreased energy or even depression. Is it just a natural lowering of testosterone? In summary andropause is real, but and this is the big but, you don't treat a number. So it literally took testosterone from in 2000 being about a $100 million a year industry, I think this year it will clear 2 or 3 billion. One thing that's difficult is the testosterone industry has had the most successful marketing campaign in the history of medicine. Currently, absolute contraindications to testosterone therapy include prostate and breast cancer.But for men, the decline in men's dominant sex hormone, testosterone, is more gradual and occurs slowly over many years.Andropause, sometimes called male menopause or late-onset hypogonadism, refers to a gradual decline in testosterone and other androgen hormones as men age.If you’re experiencing symptoms of andropause and want physician-led, integrative care, Patients Medical offers comprehensive consultations for men seeking clarity and long-term improvement.Unlike menopause in women, when hormone production stops completely, testosterone decline in men is a slower process.At Voy, our team of clinicians will work with you to get to the bottom of your symptoms.If you are suffering from symptoms related to andropause, it’s important to visit a qualified physician who can diagnose and treat the condition.A diagnosis of late-onset hypogonadism can usually be made based on your symptoms and the results of blood tests used to measure your testosterone levels. A decreased testosterone level – the main male hormone – is permanent rather than transient, and is approximately 1% per year 8, 9. The study by Turnover made it evident that the analogy between menopause and andropause may pertain to clinical manifestations but not the nature of the underlying hormonal changes. However, no consensus was reached as far as the definition, incidence, treatment, and especially testosterone therapy, are concerned. Your doctor will have to conduct a physical exam to help ascertain what's behind your symptoms. They could also be caused by other health problems such as depression or even thyroid disorder. This means that the effects on men, including changes in sexual function, mood, or even level of energy tend to remain subtle and unnoticed for years. This therapy has improved body composition, decreased fat mass, and increased muscle mass and strength. Sulfate precipitation and equilibrium dialysis are the gold standards used to estimate free testosterone and bioavailable testosterone. However, none of these symptoms are specific indicators of this condition. A brief history of testosterone treatment The association between aging-related testosterone deficiency and late-onset clinical hypogonadism in men remains a controversial concept. Kaufman offers a more measured standpoint, emphasizing that the finding of a severe LOH should be taken by clinicians as a warning of a potentially high-risk health status of their patient and should prompt them to take appropriate actions, which in the present state of the art should not include testosterone treatment . As far as LOH treatment is concerned, it is important to emphasize that, according to the EMAS data, it is possible to state almost categorically that if a man does not have sexual symptoms he does not have LOH . In summary, there is general agreement that serum total testosterone levels of 8 nmol/l (231 ng/dl) or free testosterone of 5180 pmol/l (52 pg/ml) require substitution. The symptoms of andropause can vary widely, but they’re all tied to lower testosterone levels. Sometimes the symptoms of male menopause may be the result of hypogonadism. But often the symptoms of 'male menopause' are nothing to do with hormones. It allows to explain the coincidence of normal testosterone concentrations and clinical symptoms typical of andropause. The underlying mechanisms responsible for the reduced testosterone levels in obese men are unknown. An inverse relationship was observed between an increasing number of sexual symptoms and a decreasing testosterone level. Discover here how to strengthen your willpower to create healthy habits. Caresses, masturbation, games, and non-genital physical contact are also part of our sexuality. This makes us miss a lot of things about sexuality. Observational studies have shown that men with unusually low testosterone levels appear to have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, but that's not the same as showing a cause and effect, Eckel said. People with Type 2 diabetes, another cardiovascular risk factor, or kidney disease also tend to have lower testosterone levels, Eckel said, adding that "it needs to be made clear that, although related, the causation is not clear." But testosterone levels also can be affected by some of the same factors linked to cardiovascular disease, such as obesity, sleep quality and sleep apnea. Start by checking your testosterone levels with a fast, at-home blood test. So, there is no fixed ‘male menopause age’ or measurable point in time, like there is for women. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is the primary treatment for declining levels of testosterone, but it is enveloped in controversy. Men’s health expert Dr. James Hotaling talks about andropause, aka male menopause. The goal of testosterone replacement therapy is to minimize, prevent or reverse the effect of our age-related decline of testosterone. Those who do experience symptoms of andropause will notice they are similar in characteristics to low testosterone levels. Unless andropause is causing many difficulties or interfering with your daily life, you can manage symptoms without any treatment, just with a few simple guidelines to improve your lifestyle. The medical community is debating whether or not men really do go through a well-defined menopause as their testosterone levels decline. It is a fact that decline in testosterone levels with increasing age occurs in all men. Just as with hormone replacement therapy in women, testosterone replacement therapy has potential risks and side effects. Unlike menopause in women, when hormone production stops completely, testosterone decline in men is a slower process. Talking about male menopause with your partner Male menopause isn’t a medical term, though people sometimes use it to describe the age-related decline in testosterone. Your testosterone levels peak when you’re 19 and then gradually start to decline from age 30, at a rate of about 1% per year. If levels drop too low and cause symptoms, this can be treated with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). That’s why male menopause (also called “andropause”) isn’t a medical term. Although our sexual functions deteriorate with aging, such as erection or lubrication in the case of women, there are many other things that can be done in bed. On the other hand, testosterone levels can vary a lot from individual to individual, so it is difficult to establish how much testosterone is considered low for each person. To begin with, not all men experience it, while all women go through menopause. Male menopause differs from female menopause in several ways. This may be because there are quite a few differences between male and female menopause. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can be an ideal way to feel like yourself again. Many men are reluctant to talk about their symptoms for fear that their concerns will be trivialized, because they hope they can resolve them with lifestyle changes, or because they believe the symptoms to be inevitable. Not all men will experience all of the symptoms of andropause, nor will all men experience symptoms of the same intensity. Each of these symptoms is linked to naturally decreasing levels of testosterone, which begin to recede in your early 20s. Elan Healthcare has a wide range of products designed specifically for fertility and healthy hormone production for both men and women. If several of these sound familiar, it's worth having a conversation with a healthcare provider rather than dismissing them as inevitable aging.The above-mentioned phenomena may constitute the foundation for the debate, and the first two pathomechanisms are quite commonly accepted – gonad ageing compensated by increased pituitary activity stimulation via LH.Should you have low testosterone, it may be a marker of poor health and other medical problems.Besides old age, andropause also exists in men who lose their testicular function due to diseases or accidents.Anxieties over what they have accomplished so far, either in their job or personal life, can lead to a period of depression. Andropause is a natural part of aging—but it doesn’t have to mean a decline in quality of life. Addressing these underlying causes is often the first step toward restoring natural testosterone levels and improving overall vitality. Understanding these results allows our healthcare team to create personalized treatment plans designed to restore optimal hormonal balance and enhance overall wellness. The official name for age-related testosterone deficiency in men is late-onset hypogonadism. And, if you’re eligible, we can get you started on testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) right away—most men either have no TRT side effects or only mild, short-lived ones. Symptoms of low T overlap with the effects of stress, aging or having a sedentary lifestyle. So, what are the signs of “male menopause”? Yet the term “male menopause” has some value in helping men describe what they’re going through. MedicineNet does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As such, the clinic engages in an ongoing process of developing referral links with complementary practitioners and organisations that provide wider health support to men and their partners, including in areas such as diet and nutrition. For over 25 years, the Centre has been at the forefront of treatment of men for low testosterone and connected issues such as ED. Dr Clive Morrison is a highly experienced men’s health doctor at the Centre for Men’s Health. Many men begin searching for answers when they notice changes in energy, motivation, body composition, mental clarity, or sexual health. If the results suggest you have a testosterone deficiency, you may be referred to an endocrinologist, a specialist in hormone problems. But this is an uncommon and specific medical condition that's not a normal part of ageing. This can happen when men think they have reached life's halfway stage. These symptoms can interfere with everyday life and happiness, so it's important to find the underlying cause and work out what can be done to resolve it. Since male menopause is not something that men must experience, unlike female menopause, many men try to stop it or reverse it. There can be a few different reasons men can begin to experience a decline in their testosterone and androgen levels. Male menopause is a made-up term due to the comparable symptoms to female menopause. It is called andropause because of the androgen decline in men from late-onset hypogonadism and lower testosterone. The symptoms of andropause tend to come on slowly, as hormone levels gradually drop. Also, the symptoms of testosterone loss can be nonspecific and tend to overlap with those of aging. But for men, the decline in men's dominant sex hormone, testosterone, is more gradual and occurs slowly over many years. Unlike men, women make a medical transition to menopause. During mid-life or later, men often experience a lower energy level, sour mood, and sex drive decline. Gene-editing therapy lowers harmful blood fats in early study If you are in the United States and experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or call for emergency medical help immediately. It was an important step in showing that testosterone replacement can be done safely, Eckel said. The Food and Drug Administration requires manufacturers of testosterone products to warn users about a possible increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. (Testosterone is being studied as a hormonal form of birth control for men.) Hot flashes are a known symptom of low testosterone. Here at Voy, men on TRT often tell us that their concentration and motivation have improved, leading to a promotion at work or giving them the confidence to make a big life change. Some people see benefits from TRT within a few weeks, like improved sex drive and quality of life. But low T symptoms can hang around if you don’t treat them. Declining testosterone is an ongoing process rather than a fixed period.