Andropause and male menopause are synonymous terms used to describe the process in which men begin to experience decreased levels of testosterone throughout aging. During andropause, most men will begin to experience many of the symptoms women experience when going through menopause, along with symptoms specific to males such as erectile dysfunction. Most men will begin to experience symptoms of andropause as early as their late forties to early fifties.
Unlike menopause, in which women experience a sudden drop in hormone levels, andropause often occurs more gradually and more slowly with time. However, men can often slow down, or prevent andropause from occurring too early in life by improving their diet and nutrition, exercising on a regular basis, and by undergoing bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), which can regulate testosterone and reverse the side effects associated with hormone imbalance and low testosterone.
Common signs and symptoms of andropause
- Hot flashes
- Moodiness and irritability
- Loss of muscle
- Weight gain
- Thin skin
- Dry skin
- Reduced concentration
- Excessive sweating and night sweats
- Lower sex drive and libido
- Shrunken testes
- Memory loss
- Reduced self-confidence
Diagnosing andropause
If you are a male who is experiencing any of the signs and symptoms of andropause listed above, make an appointment with your health care provider or with Rock Creek Wellness to undergo an examination and speak to your doctor about the andropause symptoms you’re experiencing. Your doctor may then order tests to rule out any other medical problems that may be contributing to the condition and may also order blood tests to measure your current testosterone levels.
Treatment for andropause
The most ideal treatment for andropause is BHRT, which is a natural therapy for hormone replacement that uses hormones derived from natural plant sources to replicate the body’s normal hormonal levels. In addition to BHRT, men can work with their doctors in developing a healthy diet and exercise plan that will also help reduce symptoms of andropause.
Rock Creek Wellness offers bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for both men and women who need help maintaining their hormone levels. Our pellet hormone program is designed for patients seeking a quick and affordable entry to bioidentical hormone therapy in Kansas City. Contact us today at 913-727-7700 to request a free consultation.
