Male Menopause: A Lesser-Known Phase of Life for Men

When you think of menopause, the focus is usually on women. After all, female menopause is a hot topic, often discussed in countless articles. But did you know men go through menopause too? It’s true—though it's not as well-known or talked about, men also experience a version of menopause. Let’s dive into what this means.

What Is Male Menopause?

We all know that the hormone "estrogen" is responsible for many changes in a woman’s body, especially during menopause. For men, it’s the hormone "testosterone" that plays a big role. As men age—usually starting around 40—testosterone levels begin to drop. This change leads to various shifts in a man’s body, a phase known as andropause or male menopause.

Starting around the age of 8 or 9, a boy’s body begins producing testosterone, which ramps up sperm production in the testes. As this hormone spreads through the body, male traits such as a deeper voice and muscle growth appear. Sexual drive also kicks in during this time. Testosterone levels typically peak in the morning and dip in the afternoon. After the age of 30, testosterone and sperm production slowly decrease by about 1% each year.

Once men hit their 40s, this decline speeds up, though men never stop producing sperm entirely. Even men in their 70s or 80s can still father children because their bodies continue to produce sperm, just in lower amounts.

Signs of Male Menopause (Andropause):

Unlike women, who can usually tell when menopause hits because their periods stop, the signs of male menopause are less obvious. Many men don’t even realize they’re going through it! Here are some common symptoms:

• Lower sperm count

• Weight gain in certain areas

• Hair loss and trouble sleeping

• Feelings of sadness or sluggishness

• Mood swings throughout the day

• Sudden bursts of sweating, also known as “hot flashes”

• For men with diabetes or high blood pressure, menopause may come sooner

• Less interest in sex (though some men experience an increase in libido after turning 40)

What Men Can Do During Menopause?

The first step is awareness. While female menopause is widely discussed, male menopause is rarely talked about. It’s important for men to know that menopause is a normal part of life, just like childhood, adolescence, and adulthood.

After the age of 30, testosterone levels start decreasing by 1% each year. To counteract some of these changes, men should focus on eating a healthy diet rich in minerals, vitamins, green vegetables, and proteins. These nutrients help with sperm production, while oily and fast foods should be avoided.

Regular exercise is crucial during this phase. If you experience any physical or mental health issues, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor. Many men feel isolated during menopause, so spending time with loved ones is vital. If you’re married, your wife’s support and love can make a world of difference.

This phase of life also presents an opportunity. With some responsibilities easing, men can focus more on themselves. Take the time to pursue hobbies, travel, or connect with close friends. By staying engaged in fulfilling activities, it becomes easier to keep feelings of depression at bay.

When it comes to your sex life, regularity is key. This doesn’t mean having sex every day, but establishing a routine that works for both you and your partner—whether that’s once a week or every couple of weeks. It's also a good idea to stay mindful of these matters during your wife’s menopause, as both of you will experience changes.

Final Thoughts:

Menopause is a natural part of life for both men and women. Rather than viewing it as a problem, it’s better to embrace it with awareness. By staying active, healthy, and joyful during this time, men can continue living vibrant, fulfilling lives.