857: Male Hormonal Transition
“If menopause is the silent passage, ‘male menopause’ is the unspeakable passage. It is fraught with secrecy, shame, and denial. It strikes at the core of what it is to be a man.” —Gail Sheehy
Aging impacts your marriage—for both of you. And yet no one is talking about the age-related hormonal transition men go through: andropause (sometimes called “male menopause”).
In the same way that women experience different symptoms during menopause, the male version of midlife transition also comes with a variety of experiences. Andropause typically affects men between 40-60, although, just like for women, it can start earlier.
Physical symptoms and emotional changes are just a few reasons this topic matters to your relationship.
Andropause is defined as “a gradual and highly variable decline in the production of androgenic hormones, especially testosterone, in the human male together with its associated effects that is held to occur during and after middle age.”
Of course, it’s not exactly male “menopause,” since it’s not about the end of menstruation. It’s the decline of androgenic hormones.
Testosterone is the main androgen you might be familiar with, but there are others, including DHEA and DHT.
Androgens are crucial for both men and women to help with bone density, muscle development, red blood cell production, sexual desire, and more.
Specifically in men, androgens contribute to sperm development, a deep voice, increased height, and hair growth in various areas of the body.
In the same way that many women feel underprepared for menopause, men often think, “I didn’t know about this!” or “I just don’t feel like myself.”
That’s why understanding the changes happening in both of your bodies at midlife is necessary for maintaining a strong and healthy marriage—especially when it comes to sexual intimacy.
Testosterone levels naturally begin to decrease after the age of 30, declining by about 1-2% per year.
By the time a man reaches 45, many begin to notice the initial symptoms of andropause. By age 50, nearly half of men experience low testosterone levels, with the percentage increasing steadily after this age.
The symptoms associated with declining androgens affect emotions, mental state, sexual performance, and more.
Emotional and Mental Symptoms
- Irritability and nervousness
- Depression and low self-confidence
- Mental fogginess and forgetfulness
Physical Symptoms
- Fatigue and low energy levels
- Stubborn weight gain, especially around the waist
- Bone density loss or osteoporosis
- Decreased body hair
- Reduced lean muscle mass and poor muscle definition
Sexual Health Symptoms
- Low libido or lack of sexual desire
- Reduced erection quality or erectile dysfunction (ED)
- Premature ejaculation
- Reduced strength and volume of ejaculation
Other Symptoms
- Hot flashes or sensations of heat
- Circulatory problems
- Excessive sweating
- Frequent headaches
- Generalized aches and pains
- Difficulty recovering from physical activity
- Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns
It’s no wonder midlife is such a crazy time for marriages!
Fortunately, you don’t have to just accept the challenging changes you experience.
When you begin noticing declining androgens, here are some of your first steps:
First, start with a medical evaluation. Find a doctor who can help you optimize your body and find the wellness solutions that work for you.
Next, measure your hormone levels through blood tests, especially your free and total testosterone levels. Just because you score in a “normal” range doesn’t mean you have to ignore symptoms. You can also take assessments of prostate health (PSA), complete blood count (CBC), and other vital health indicators.
Lifestyle changes can also help improve your health, mood, and marriage. Focus on regular exercise, healthy eating, and stress management. Additionally, options like Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), hormone therapy, and targeted supplements can offer additional support.
Just like for women, midlife doesn’t have to suck for men! It’s a choice. And making that choice can dramatically improve your quality of life and strengthen your marriage for the years ahead.
We are not medical professionals. This episode is not to be construed as medical advice. Please seek direct answers to your questions from your physician.
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