Is Aging in Men More Than Just a Number?
With increasing life expectancy, the concept of healthy aging in men has become more relevant than ever. Yet one of the most under-discussed—but commonly experienced—phenomena in this process is andropause. Often misunderstood or mistakenly referred to as “male menopause,” andropause is, in fact, a condition with its own unique clinical and hormonal characteristics.
What Is Andropause?
The term “andropause” refers to the physical, emotional, and sexual changes associated with the gradual age-related decline in testosterone levels in men. Scientifically, this condition is defined as Late-Onset Hypogonadism.
It does not occur in all men. Studies show that approximately 20–35% of men over the age of 60 experience a significant drop in testosterone levels accompanied by related symptoms.
How Is It Different from Menopause?
Unlike menopause in women—which occurs suddenly when estrogen production stops completely—andropause is a slow and progressive hormonal decline. In men, testosterone production decreases gradually but typically continues into older age. Additionally, sperm production and fertility are often maintained.
What Causes Testosterone Decline?
Aside from the natural effects of aging, several other factors can contribute to reduced testosterone levels:
- Central obesity (abdominal fat accumulation)
- Type 2 diabetes
- Metabolic syndrome
- Chronic illnesses (lung, kidney, or liver disease)
- Cardiovascular problems
- Genetic predisposition
These factors can lead to visceral fat accumulation, insulin resistance, imbalanced HDL/LDL levels, and chronic inflammation.
Symptoms of Andropause
Physical Symptoms:
- Decreased muscle mass and strength
- Abdominal fat gain
- Fatigue and low energy
- Loss of bone density (osteoporosis)
- Gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue)
- Reduced body hair
Psychological Symptoms:
- Mental fatigue, reduced concentration
- Depressed mood, irritability
- Sleep disturbances
Sexual Symptoms:
- Decreased libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Reduced ejaculatory volume and speed
General Symptoms:
- Excessive sweating, hot flashes
- Heart palpitations
- Difficulty falling asleep
When to Seek Medical Evaluation?
If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms and they are affecting your quality of life, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional.
The International Society for the Study of the Aging Male (ISSAM) recommends paying close attention to the following signs when considering an andropause diagnosis:
- Reduced frequency of nighttime erections
- Noticeable decline in sexual desire
- Decreased energy and muscle strength
- Changes in body composition and reduced bone density
The LaraHealth Approach to Testosterone Health
At LaraHealth, we offer a personalized, evidence-based, and functional medicine approach to men’s hormonal health.
Testosterone imbalance is not just a hormonal issue—it’s a systemic condition that affects metabolism, cardiovascular health, brain function, and emotional balance.
Our services include:
- Comprehensive analysis of testosterone and related hormone levels
- Body composition and bone mineral density assessments
- Micronutrient and metabolic panel screening
- Functional medicine and lifestyle planning
- Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy when indicated
Don’t Ignore Andropause
Andropause is not a myth, but a biological process that affects many men with age. However, the severity and progression vary between individuals and can be effectively managed with early awareness and the right support.
At LaraHealth, our mission is to help men navigate this transition with strength, clarity, and balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age does andropause begin?
Symptoms typically begin to appear after age 45, though individual variation plays a key role.
How is testosterone deficiency diagnosed?
Morning measurements of total and free testosterone levels, evaluated alongside clinical symptoms, are the gold standard for diagnosis.
Is hormone therapy safe?
When prescribed to the right patient and properly monitored, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is safe and can significantly enhance quality of life.
