Features -Andropause or the Male Menopause

Doctors are debating whether there is a condition known as Andropause (the male Menopause)

It is not as clear-cut as in women, where there is a specific end of the menstrual cycle and the start of the menopause.

In men it is a more gradual process, where the levels of testosterone slowly decline. This happens from the age of 45 onwards, with a more noticeable drop around 60, or 70.

However if there is a sudden testicular failure, from mumps, diabetes, or surgical removal of the testes, to name a few, then the symptoms can come on in a similar fashion to a woman’s menopause.

Symptoms can include hot flushes and sleep disturbances, depression, irritability, waning sexual appetite, and some degree of erectile dysfunction.

Treatment by Testosterone Replacement Therapy can be given, though as with women on HRT there are risks involved. There may be a risk of Prostate cancer, Heart disease, and also suppression of testicular function.

Jo Pitcairn web Site Manager

Page created: 16th October 2008