Male menopause is commonly referred to as manopause. Though menopause was once thought of as a female change of life, men are noticing changes in their bodies as early as 35 years of age including reduced sex drive and energy. As the body ages, testosterone production slows down causing men to lose a bit of that manliness.
According to Robert Brannigan MD, as many as 95% of men live with male menopause undiagnosed. By the age of 70, testosterone production could be reduced to 50% of normal levels affecting health, sleeping patterns and energy levels. Testosterone is responsible for more than just muscle building and sexual function – the male hormone also affects energy and concentration.
Testosterone replacement therapy has been used for men with testosterone deficiency and women after menopause. Therapy often includes blood tests to determine current testosterone levels and supplementation to return testosterone to normal levels. Testosterone levels reduce by about 1% per year starting at age 35 so regular blood tests may be required.
Brannigan goes on to state that men over the age of 70 are not the only ones suffering from male menopause. As a yearly reduction of 1% starting at the age of 35, men could feel the effects of male menopause as early as 40. At first, the symptoms may not be noticeable all the time, but by 50, reduction in testosterone could reach 15% or more leaving quite an impact on the body.
Testosterone supplements are available in patches, pills, gels and injections. The medical term for manopause or male menopause is male hypogonadism.
Source: Robert Brannigan MD. Northwestern Memorial Hospital. 20 August 2010.