Andropause Resources

Since the steady testosterone decline typically begins at age 40, men may find themselves in andropause anytime after that. Because symptoms vary from person to person, it may or may not be noticeable. However, when symptoms like low libido, erectile dysfunction, low energy, or depression/anxiety interfere with daily life and relationships, it’s likely a sign that a man over the age of 40 is experiencing andropause.

The most common symptoms of andropause include:

• Low libido/loss of interest in sex
• Erectile dysfunction
• Fatigue
• Loss of muscle mass
• Depression, anxiety or mood changes

Men may also experience bone density loss, hot flashes or sweating, breast tenderness, and infertility.

Often talked about as the male version of menopause, andropause is a real stage of life that men naturally go through as they age. Male menopause typically refers to the effects of decreasing testosterone levels that can lead to unpleasant or even life-changing symptoms, such as depression, lack of motivation, and erectile dysfunction (ED). Andropause is different from menopause because it’s much more of a gradual decline of hormones, rather than the more sudden experience of the end of ovulation for women.

Andropause looks different for every man, but common symptoms include lower libido (loss of sex drive), fatigue, depression or anxiety, among others. Men go through andropause as an expected part of the aging process, but don’t have to accept these physical and emotional changes as their new normal. The severity and duration of symptoms of andropause are highly personal and unique. Therapies that promote restorative sleep, sex drive, and metabolic health can make a difference early on.

Andropause in men can last 15-20 years, or longer. Because testosterone declines gradually about 1.5% each year after age 40, symptoms can persist, as the hormone decline is permanent. During andropause and beyond, the body will no longer produce the amount of testosterone needed to help men feel their best physically, emotionally, and sexually. Over time, the gradual decline in testosterone may warrant further intervention with low testosterone therapy.

Andropause is an expected aging process associated with declining androgen levels, whereas low testosterone is a measurable hormone deficiency. During andropause, testosterone levels may stay within normal limits for an extended period and may not warrant immediate intervention. It is also true that andropausal patients can have low testosterone and seek symptom support from bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).