Andropause – does the “male menopause” exist?

[10 March 2010 - 08h35]

Hot flushes, a drop in libido, weight gain, bad temper… your man is really not himself!

Yes, we are indeed (and surprisingly perhaps) talking about men. And what is the cause of all these problems? Some are quick to suggest that it’s due to overworking, and thus evade the real problem. However, the medical reality is quite different. The male menopause does indeed most certainly exist!

However, it affects only 6% of men between the ages of 30 and 80, whereas the menopause affects all women, causing hormonal upheaval. Another difference is that women “lose” their reproductive ability at this time, whereas men can still have children.

All men experience a gradual drop in their testosterone level from the age of 30 to 35. It is often their sexuality that is first to take a knock. If your partner suffers from erection problems, doesn’t seem to want you the way he used to and often complains of being tired, encourage him to go and see his GP. The doctor will be able to prescribe testosterone treatment. And it’s important to offer him reassurance too, as he may feel his virility has been affected.

If blood tests confirm your fears, again, don’t worry: there are tried and tested hormone replacement treatments available! Make an appointment with a specialist, preferably a urologist/andrologist. Only urologists, gynaecologists and endocrinologists are able to prescribe testosterone. This regulatory constraint is in order to avoid use of the hormone for doping purposes. Some treatments – given as injections every 3 weeks or orally – are covered by state health insurance. Gels and patches are also very effective and less restrictive. However, they are not covered by insurance and will cost around a hundred euros a month.

Source : Interview Pr Stéphane Droupy (CHU Nîmes - France)

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