Male Menopause: Hormonal Change with Age
Though not as commonly discussed as menopause for women, men also face hormonal changes later in life known as male menopause, often referred to as “Andropause”. In females, menopause is a term used to describe the end of a woman’s regular menstrual function and is typically characterized by changes in hormone production.
For men, andropause is very real and concerns hormone changes and may relate to testosterone levels. Unlike a woman’s ovaries, the testes do not lose the ability to make hormones, in fact depending on the man’s state of health, he may be able to make sperm into his 80s or longer.
Male Menopause Signs and Symptoms:
Male menopause may appear differently for everyone. However, working with your physician there are certain symptoms to look for including:
- Small changes in the testes’ function may occurring as early as age 45 and even more noticeably after age 70
- The severity of these changes depends on the person and may occur as a result of an illness
Treatment Options for Male Menopause:
If you have low testosterone, hormone replacement therapy may help with symptoms such as low sexual interest, depression, and fatigue. Hormone replacement therapy is not for men with prostate cancer. Before this type of therapy begins, a man should receive a complete physical evaluation and laboratory tests.
If you or a loved one believes you may be experiencing male menopause, our team is here to help guide you every step of the way. We at Western Michigan Urological Associates want to work with you to find the best option for you and your family. Ask Your Primary Care Provider for a Referral.
SOLTIVE™ SuperPulsed Laser System
WMURO patients can now benefit from the latest in stone removal and BPH treatment.
Common Urinary Issues
Have questions about urinary issues? Check out our interactive guide.
Low Testosterone
Get the facts on hormonal imbalance, its signs, symptoms, and statistics in the United States.