What is Male Menopause? : Hormonal changes are a very natural part of ageing. In Females, hormonal changes happen quite abruptly around the age of 50 when they stop ovulating. In Males however, the hormonal changes occur rather gradually. These hormonal changes in men accompany more related symptoms such as muscle mass reduction, mood swings, irritability etc and these symptoms together constitute the entity known as Male Menopause. This is also commonly referred to as Andropause.
What are the Symptoms of Male Menopause?
There is no specific symptom for male menopause. There are a few symptoms however which most commonly are seen in men who might be experiencing it. These symptoms are listed as follows:
- Mood Swings, Irritability.
- Loss of Muscle Mass, Decrease in Stamina for exercise and other activities, Fatigue, Feeling of weakness.
- Trouble in concentrating, Decreased Motivation.
- Decreased or Lack of sexual drive (Libido), Erection problems.
- Low Self confidence, Anxiety, Depression or Dullness.
- Difficulty in sleeping, Feeling tired even after adequate rest.
- Fat redistribution in the body causing cosmetic concerns like – Gynaecomastia (Man Boobs), Protruding Belly (Pot Belly)
Just looking at the symptoms may not really emphasise the seriousness of the concern. In fact, not being aware or not accepting our own health issues and continuing to struggle is another reason why a lot of men continue to suffer in silence. However, through this article, we are here to throw light on the fact that “Male Menopause” in reality is a very natural problem which a lot of men face. Just by seeking proper help and support, one can overcome it and start living a normal life.
Why Does Male Menopause or Andropause Occur?
First of all, Male Menopause is not the counterpart of Female menopause. It is very important to understand that unlike females, male menopause is a very gradual process. So a lot of times, patient is misdiagnosed or the patient does not even realise what is actually happening.
When a man reaches the age of 35 to 40, there is a decrease in the level of testosterone. Testosterone as we all know is the male sex hormone. This decline of testosterone in males is gradual – about 1% decrease per year. Usually, this is not a problem as such because healthy men may continue to make sperms until the age of 75+. But when other symptoms occur simultaneously, it is best to get an opinion from a urologist. Testosterone can be checked very easily with the help of a simple blood test.
Male Menopause can occur due to Hormonal Causes as well as Non Hormonal Causes. Hormonal causes can include a condition known as Late Onset Hypogonadism. Non Hormonal Causes include lifestyle issues, personal problems etc. Let us discuss them below in detail.
What are Hormonal Causes of Male Menopause? What is Late Onset Hypogonadism?
Like the name suggests, Hypogonadism means when the gonads are producing less than normal hormones. In extreme cases, they may cease to produce any significant quantities of hormone altogether. In Late Onset Hypogonadism in males, the testes does not produce enough testosterone hormone.
Early onset hypogonadism is present since birth when the child can have features like small testes, delayed puberty etc. Here, in late onset hypogonadism, the symptoms do not surface until the age of 30 or 40. Hypogonadism can also occur in males who suffer from chronic problems like Obesity and Type II Diabetes Mellitus.
Please remember, this is not a very common phenomenon. It happens in a few men, and this disease is not a normal part of ageing. A urologist is the best person to make a correct diagnosis and guide you through the best possible treatment.
What are the Non Hormonal Causes of Male Menopause?
The symptoms of male menopause may sometimes overlap or arise from personal or lifestyle related problems. These symptoms may be inter related where one gives rise to the other. For instance- A man may be suffering from low sexual drive due to stress, anxiety, depression or other partner related emotional issue. Another example, chronic heart diseases, smoking may cause erection problems, which can further lead to stress, anxiety etc.
Read treatment of “Erectile Dysfunction – Erection problems” HERE.
Therefore, all these symptoms can be inter related and inter connected. It is very important to find out the source of the problem so that counselling can be given successfully. There may be some other lifestyle related troubles which can bring forward the symptoms of male menopause such as:
- Chronic Illness such as Diabetes, Alcoholism.
- Midlife Crisis – where a man around 30 – 40 years of age suddenly feels overwhelmed with thoughts of having already spent half of his life.
- Lack of proper sleep.
- Lack of exercise.
- Stress, anxiety or depression.
How is Male Menopause Treated?
Once the doctor excludes any other organic causes for the symptoms, counselling and lifestyle improvement is done. In case of Hormonal issues, the concern is addressed and proper hormonal replacement treatment is commenced. There are many ways of providing Testosterone Replacement, however it is best to discuss with your urologist as he will provide you the best way so that it is comfortable and effective for your case.
Treatment of Male Menopause at Institute of Urology, Jaipur
At Institute of Urology Jaipur, we have created a very safe and confidential space for patients to speak freely about their problems. There are VIP services available and discreetness is assured. So there is no need to be embarrassed about anything. You can freely speak to us and discuss your problems with us. We will carefully analyse and suggest the best treatment modality for you.
You can send me a whatsapp or call me on 9829013468 or you can come and see me at Institute of Urology, C Scheme, Jaipur all 7 days a week during working hours. You can book an appointment on 9829013468 before visiting for a better experience.
If you have anymore questions, please leave a comment below this post and I will answer you as soon as possible. Thank you.
