Testosterone deficiency

Men can experience a decline in sex hormone levels as they get older. This process is commonly referred to as male menopause or andropause. However, since it’s very different from female menopause, doctors often use other terms like testosterone deficiency syndrome, hypogonadism and androgen deficiency to differentiate the two.

Men’s testosterone levels start to drop by about one per cent every year around the age of 30. Since this process is gradual, it doesn’t usually affect fertility. Consequently, men can often father children well into old age. In contrast, the decline in estrogen production during female menopause occurs much more rapidly. Consequently, after menopause, women can no longer conceive.

If testosterone levels decline, men may show the following signs of testosterone deficiency:

• Decreased libido
• Erectile dysfunction
• Depression, feeling less motivated
• Mood swings
• Fatigue
• Sleep problems
• Decreased muscle mass
• Decreased bone density
• Breast development

Not all men experience these symptoms. However, those who do should consult a urologist. Although a drop in testosterone levels may be age-related, other health issues, such as thyroid problems, medication side effects and obstructive sleep apnea could be to blame. It’s important to have a thorough physical exam to be sure.

A testosterone deficiency can often be controlled with lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly and reducing stress. If the medications you’re taking are causing your testosterone levels to drop, you should also consult your doctor and discuss changing medications or adjusting your dose. In severe cases of testosterone deficiency, your urologist may prescribe testosterone replacement therapy.

What are the studies?

For more information, consult the following links: https://www.lescliniquesmaroisurologue.ca/en/diagnostics/low-testosterone/

Baxter Bulletin. Lipschitz, David, MD. “Is there such a thing as the male menopause?”. (October 3, 2017).

Healthline. Krans, Brian. “What Is Male Menopause?”. (Reviewed: March 8, 2016).

Mayo Clinic. “Male menopause: Myth or reality?”. (May 18, 2017).

WebMD. “Male Menopause”. (January 14, 2017).