What is Andropause?

Andropause describes age-related hormonal changes in men. It is a collection of a symptoms, including fatigue and a decrease in libido experienced by some middle-aged or older men that is attributed to a gradual decline in testosterone levels.

As the primary male hormone, testosterone production declines as men age. Andropause is also known as age-related low testosterone or late-onset hypogonadism. It’s also often referred to as ‘male menopause.’

The process of andropause is more gradual and less well-defined in men as the type of symptoms you may see in perimenopausal women. However, male hypogonadism can adversely affect multiple organ functions and quality of life – so it needs to be monitored and treated. 

Testosterone Level by Age (Men)

Reduced testosterone typically begins after the age of 30 for men, with testosterone levels dropping by about 1% per year.

What Are the Symptoms of Andropause in Men?

For some men, the symptoms of andropause become noticeable around middle age (40–60 years old). Not all middle-aged or older men experience symptoms, but those who do might notice:

How Does Andropause Compare to Menopause?

Both menopause and andropause occur as people age and are associated with hormonal changes. Menopause is marked by a sudden drop in estrogen and progesterone, while andropause involves a gradual decline in testosterone levels over many years. While menopause completely ends a woman’s reproductive ability, andropause does not affect a man’s ability to father children.Both conditions share a lot of symptoms as this illustration shows, including mood swings, possible depression, headaches, night sweats, insomnia, weight gain, and bone loss.

Many women experience more pronounced symptoms during menopause, like hot flashes and mood swings, compared to the often milder symptoms of andropause.

Who Is Susceptible to Andropause and Why?

Andropause primarily affects men aged 40 and older, though the onset and severity vary widely among individuals. Factors influencing the likelihood and intensity of andropause include:

• Genetics
• Lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and stress levels
• Chronic health conditions (e.g., diabetes, obesity, or cardiovascular disease)
• Alcohol or substance use

How Do You Treat Andropause?

Andropause is not a disease but a natural part of aging. However, symptoms can sometimes interfere with quality of life. If so, first consult with a healthcare provider for guidance.

Schedule time to see and speak with your physician to talk about andropause.

Get your Labs done!  

The beginning of the year is a great time to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider and get your bloodwork done. Primary care physicians can evaluate testosterone levels and provide tailored recommendations and referrals .

Lifestyle changes your physician may recommend:

• Regular exercise (strength and aerobic training)
• A balanced diet that is rich in nutrients
• Stress management and adequate sleep
• Counseling or therapy to address mood-related symptoms.

Treatments may include medications or regenerative therapies for specific symptoms:

(e.g., antidepressants, erectile dysfunction treatments)

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)

Hormone replacement therapy can help restore testosterone levels, but it should be used cautiously under medical supervision due to potential risks (e.g., heart disease, prostate health concerns). Get testosterone levels checked by a doctor before starting TRT. And know in advance that you’ll need to work with your healthcare provider to monitor your health regularly during treatment (blood tests, PSA levels, and red blood cell count).

While andropause is a natural part of aging, it doesn’t have to disrupt how you feel about yourself or get in the way of you being comfortable and happy with your life and body.