All You Need to Know About Andropause

by Shivani Sachdev Founder & Director

Andropause is also referred to as male menopause. Andropause is described as hormonal changes, causing a decrease in the testosterone level in males due to the aging factor. Testosterone is a primary sex hormone in males and performs a role in developing the male reproductive tissues, sexual drive, muscular mass, deep voice, and facial hair.

Comparison with Female Menopause

Though andropause is also called male menopause, it is nowhere similar to female menopause. In female menopause, ovulation is completely (mature egg production) barred within a shorter span of time or abruptly. Whereas, in andropause, the testosterone level decreases gradually thus sperm production reduces slowly, with an almost 1% decrease every year. Female menopause occurs around 45-50 of age and ovulation production stops; while andropause starts at around 45 of age and sperm production reduces slowly but does not stop totally until the age of 70 or above.

Reasons of Andropause

Andropause is innate by the reduced production of testosterone hormones, a sexual hormone in the male body. Also, in some cases, an increase in the secretion of another sex hormone, SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) causes andropause as it pulls testosterone from the blood. While the aging factor is the key reason for andropause, but it is not the only reason. The other reasons causing this situation is diabetes, obesity hormonal disorders, chronic disease, sexual organ infections, and lifestyle factors.

Signs of Andropause

Unlike menopause, where the maturation cycle stops, it cannot be observed by a clear indication. But there are some signs that can predict andropause.

Abrupt increase in the body fat, muscle mass reduction, or dryness of skin
Erectile dysfunction
Reduced sex drive or decreased libido and infertility
Disturbance in sleep patterns
Behavioral changes such as mood swings, irritation, sadness, lack of energy, or depression
Excessive sweating

Diagnosis of Andropause

If a man observes any signs of andropause, he can consult a urologist for further tests. You can contact Dr Vishal Dutt Gour – the Best Urologist in Delhi for andropause diagnosis.

The diagnosis starts with the physical test and medical history of any disease. Further, to measure the testosterone level in the body, a blood test is recommended. If the testosterone is found less, a semen analysis is done to observe its effects.

Treatments of Andropause

Andropause is a gradual process, where testosterone level declines slowly and finally, causes infertility. Though it is a natural process that has to happen with the aging factor. However, if a man is concerned about his decreasing fertility and aspires to be a father, the effects of reduced testosterone levels can be minimized using medical means. The most common treatment for this situation is to increase the testosterone level in the blood in any of the following ways.

Introducing Testosterone through Skin: In this way, some patches, containing testosterone are stuck on the back, abdomen, upper arms, or thighs. The skin absorbs the hormone and sends it to the bloodstream.
Applying Testosterone Gel: It involves applying the gel directly on the skin near arms and rubbing until absorbed properly.
Capsule Consumption: Here capsules of testosterone is given twice a day to increase their level in blood.
Testosterone Injection: In this way, testosterone injection is given twice a week to maintain its level in the body.

You can also make some changes in the lifestyle such as exercise, healthy food, giving up smoking and drinking, and becoming stress-free to maintain the hormone level.

For any further query, related to male fertility, contact SCI IVF Hospital Delhi having the Best Male Fertility Specialist in Delhi.