The medical community is debating whether or not men really do go through a well-defined menopause as their testosterone levels decline. Doctors say that men receiving hormone therapy with testosterone have reported relief of some of the symptoms associated with so-called male menopause.

What Is Male “Menopause?”

Because men do not go through a well-defined period referred to as menopause, some doctors refer to this problem as androgen (testosterone) decline in the aging male — or what some people call low testosterone. It is normal for men to experience a decline in the production of the male hormone testosterone with aging, but this also occurs with conditions such as diabetes.

Along with the decline in testosterone, some men experience symptoms that include:

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Depression
• Sexual problems

The relationship of these symptoms to decreased testosterone levels is still controversial.

However, as a result of disease, subtle changes in the function of the testes may occur as early as age 45 to 50 and more dramatically after the age of 70 in some men.

How Is Male “Menopause” Diagnosed?

To make the diagnosis of male “menopause,”  the doctor will:

• Perform a physical exam
• Ask about symptoms
• Order tests to rule out medical problems that may be contributing to the condition
• Order blood tests, which may include measuring testosterone level

Can Male “Menopause” Be Treated?

If testosterone levels are low, testosterone replacement therapy may help relieve symptoms such as:

• Loss of interest in sex (decreased libido)
• Depression
• Fatigue

Just as with hormone replacement therapy in women, testosterone replacement therapy has potential risks and side effects. Replacing testosterone may worsen prostate cancer and increase the risk of heart disease, for example.

If you are considering androgen replacement therapy, talk to a doctor to learn more. Your doctor may also recommend certain lifestyle or other changes to help with some symptoms of male menopause. These include:

• Diet
• Exercise program
• Medications, such as an antidepressant