The issue of male menopause is a hotly debated one but the evidence is strong that men also suffer the same menopausal-like symptoms that women do. The only difference is, while menopause signals the end of the reproductive stage of a woman's life, in men, this is not the case.
So should men and menopause be used in the same sentence? The fact remains, men can produce sperm well into their seventies and eighties and this is where the debate rages. If a man can still father children at this time of life then how can they possibly go through menopause?
The problem in identifying male menopause is there is no defined period that a man can experience it. In women, it's usually in their forties when the big "M" can come knocking at their change of life door. Apart from some isolated instances of women going through it at a much younger age, the general awareness stage starts in their forties.
Andropause
This is a term which is often used in place of male menopause. So what is it? Well, it's associated with the decline in a man's testosterone levels. This is usually as a result of aging and men have reported many symptoms associated with menopause such as:
- sexual issues
- fatigue
- depression
- mood swings
The difference between the testes and the ovaries is the former can still produce sperm at a later age. The similarity is, men can also experience testosterone decline at about the same time women begin the reproduction shut down.
Testing For Male Menopause
So how do you know if male menopause may be affecting you? The most logical step is to see your doctor who will first conduct a physical exam and then discuss the symptoms you may be experiencing.
It doesn't end here though because there are other factors which may come into play. The symptoms may be associated with other conditions which could be contributing. Your doctor will need to test your testosterone levels and will more than likely call for blood tests.
Treatment may include testosterone replacement therapy however, as is the case with hormone replacement therapy for women, there are side effects possible so discuss these with your doctor. One of the more likely ways to combat symptoms of male menopause is making lifestyle changes.
This could include an exercise regime or simply altering one's dietary habits. Depression can be a major issue during andropause in fact, many believe it doesn't get the attention it should. Treatment for depression should be strongly considered and your doctor will guide you in this area.
Author's Bio
Want to know how to effectively prepare for the symptoms of menopause and save yourself unnecessary stress? Plus, get the latest menopause related news and reviews.
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