Andropause – what is it? Symptoms, causes, and treatment options
A woman loses her natural reproductive ability with the onset of menopause. In men, aging does not mean the loss of fertility. However, after the age of 50, the production of male sex hormones, including testosterone, begins to decline. Andropause, often referred to as the male menopause, can lead to a range of physical, psychological, and sexual symptoms.
What is andropause and when does it begin? What exactly happens during this time? How long does andropause last in men and how can its symptoms be relieved?
Table of Contents
- When Does Male Menopause Begin?
- Why Does Andropause Occur? The Most Common Causes
- Hormonal Changes In Andropause – Symptoms Worth Knowing
- How Long Does Andropause Last And What Happens During This Time?
- Treatment Of Andropause – From Hormones To Lifestyle Changes
- How To Relieve Andropause Symptoms? Proven Methods
- Vitamins And Supplements That May Help With Andropause
- Male Menopause – How To Accept Changes And Enjoy A Good Life After 40?
When Does Male Menopause Begin?
Andropause, also called androgen deficiency syndrome, is a natural process of male aging. It usually begins after the age of 40 and progresses gradually. The symptoms of andropause in men are not as pronounced as in women during menopause. They may include erectile dysfunction, testosterone deficiency, low sex drive, and thinning hair.
The frequency of andropause largely depends on a man’s overall health, which is strongly influenced by lifestyle, proper diet, regular physical activity, and the use of stimulants. For this reason, in some men the first signs of andropause may appear as early as their forties, while in others only after the age of fifty.
Why Does Andropause Occur? The Most Common Causes
Andropause is the period of male aging that comes with a progressive age-related deficiency of testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and androgen hormones. It is the decline in these compounds that leads to a range of physical and psychological symptoms.
Apart from the drop in testosterone, factors that may intensify the symptoms of andropause include:
- genetic predisposition
- chronic stress
- poor diet
- use of stimulants
- chronic diseases
- certain medications, including anabolic steroids
It is important to remember, however, that andropause is primarily caused by the natural aging process, which leads to lower levels of testosterone and other male sex hormones.
Hormonal Changes In Andropause – Symptoms Worth Knowing
Since testosterone plays a role in regulating many behavioral traits, its decrease in the body can cause hormonal, physical, and psychological changes. The most common of these include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, urinary incontinence, and prostate enlargement.
Many men during the male climacteric complain of frequent urination, bone and joint pain, difficulties in sexual life (including premature ejaculation), excessive sweating, and reduced physical performance. Symptoms of andropause may also include hot flashes and mood swings.
These symptoms may appear earlier in men who lead an unhealthy lifestyle, eat poorly, neglect regular physical activity, abuse alcohol, and smoke cigarettes.
Psychological Symptoms
Androgen deficiency can cause mental health problems. During male menopause, psychological symptoms of andropause may include nervousness, irritability, mood disorders, depression, and inability to feel joy. Some men also experience difficulties with memory and concentration, chronic fatigue, and reduced resistance to stress.
Physical Symptoms
Male menopause is much more often associated with symptoms such as bone and joint pain, hot flashes, excessive sweating, and thinning hair. Physical signs of andropause also include headaches and dizziness, an increase in body fat (especially around the abdomen), and a decrease in bone mass. The drop in testosterone levels can also lead to sexual dysfunction and a reduced quality of life for men.
How Long Does Andropause Last And What Happens During This Time?
Male menopause, associated with a decrease in male sex hormones (testosterone and androgens), is a process that can last for many years.
Because the decline in compounds regulating reproductive functions occurs gradually, the symptoms of andropause may persist even until the end of life. Typically, the male climacteric begins after the age of 40, but it is important to remember that male hormonal balance starts changing as early as 30–35 years of age.
Treatment Of Andropause – From Hormones To Lifestyle Changes
The treatment of andropause focuses on restoring optimal levels of androgen hormones in the male body. For this purpose, hormone replacement therapy (testosterone therapy) or administration of chorionic gonadotropin is most often used.
Each of these methods helps regulate hormonal balance, reduce muscle mass loss, and improve sexual performance. Androgen preparations should always be taken under the constant supervision of a urologist, endocrinologist, and sexologist.
How To Relieve Andropause Symptoms? Proven Methods
Managing andropause should include not only pharmacological treatment but also prevention and proper nutrition. Men going through this stage are advised to follow a diet rich in macro- and microelements (such as zinc), vitamins (C and D), healthy fats, as well as to limit alcohol consumption and quit smoking.
In addition, physical exercise is recommended during andropause, along with adjusting sexual activity from evening to morning (due to higher morning testosterone levels). In case of erectile problems, it is important to consult a urologist or sexologist.
Vitamins And Supplements That May Help With Andropause
During male menopause, when testosterone and androgen hormone levels decrease, certain vitamins and supplements may help ease troublesome symptoms. To support testosterone production in the body, men can reach for preparations containing zinc, magnesium, vitamin D, and vitamin C.
It may also be beneficial to include supplements rich in adaptogens and natural plant extracts, such as fenugreek seeds, tribulus terrestris, or maca root. However, it is important to remember that supplementation should serve as support in alleviating the symptoms of andropause, not as a replacement for treatment.
Male Menopause – How To Accept Changes And Enjoy A Good Life After 40?
Andropause is a natural stage in a man’s life, and its course is influenced by many different factors. As a result of hormonal changes, testosterone levels decrease, which is linked to the physiological aging of the body. Male menopause often progresses calmly, without dramatic changes, but its accompanying symptoms may interfere with daily functioning and reduce quality of life.
To enjoy vitality, good physical condition, and well-being even after the age of 50, it is worth taking care of a balanced diet and regular exercise, and, if necessary, reaching for the right supplements.
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