Andropause: What is ‘Male Menopause’
You may have heard the term male menopause used in media or casual conversation, often to describe midlife changes in men’s mood, energy, or sexual function. Clinically, however, the more accurate term is andropause — and it’s quite different from menopause.
Understanding what andropause is (and what it isn’t) can help reduce stigma, improve health outcomes, and encourage men to seek support when they need it.
What Is Andropause?
Andropause refers to age-related changes in testosterone levels in men, typically occurring gradually from around the age of 40 onwards. Unlike menopause, which involves a relatively abrupt and complete cessation of ovarian hormone production, testosterone decline in men is:
Slow and progressive
Variable between individuals
Often partial rather than complete
Testosterone levels naturally decrease by about 1–2% per year after midlife, but not all men experience symptoms.
Why “Male Menopause” Is a Misleading Term
The phrase male menopause suggests a sudden hormonal shutdown similar to menopause in women. This isn’t accurate.
Key differences include:
Gradual rather than abrupt hormonal decline
Affects some, but not all men
Fertility usually remains, but is reduced
No single diagnostic threshold
Common Symptoms of Andropause
Some men experience noticeable physical, emotional, or cognitive changes. These can include:
Physical symptoms
Reduced energy or stamina
Decreased muscle mass and strength
Increased body fat (especially abdominal)
Reduced libido or erectile difficulties
Sleep disturbances
Psychological and emotional symptoms
Low mood or depressive symptoms
Increased irritability or emotional reactivity
Reduced motivation or confidence
Anxiety or stress intolerance
Cognitive changes
Brain fog
Reduced concentration
Memory difficulties
Importantly, these symptoms are non-specific — they can also be caused by stress, burnout, depression, chronic illness, poor sleep, or relationship difficulties.
What Causes Andropause Symptoms?
Testosterone decline is only part of the picture. Contributing factors often include:
Chronic stress and elevated cortisol
Poor sleep quality or sleep apnoea
Sedentary lifestyle
Weight gain or metabolic conditions
Alcohol use
Relationship or identity transitions in midlife
This is why treatment focused solely on hormones may miss the broader context.
How Is Andropause Diagnosed?
There is no single test for andropause.
Diagnosis typically involves:
A detailed symptom history
Blood tests measuring testosterone (usually morning levels)
Assessment of physical and mental health factors
Clinicians generally look for both low testosterone levels and clinically significant symptoms before considering medical treatment.
Treatment and Management Options
Management is often multidimensional, rather than purely medical.
Lifestyle strategies
Strength and resistance training
Regular cardiovascular exercise
Improved sleep hygiene
Stress reduction
Balanced nutrition
Psychological support
Therapy for mood changes, identity shifts, or relationship stress
Support for anxiety or depressive symptoms
Addressing work or life-stage pressures
Medical options
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) may be considered for some men
Requires careful assessment and monitoring
Not appropriate or necessary for everyone
TRT is not a cure-all and should never be used without proper medical oversight.
Why Talking About Andropause Matters
Men are often socialised to minimise emotional or physical vulnerability. As a result, symptoms of andropause may be dismissed as “just stress” or “getting older,” leading to unnecessary suffering.
Open, informed conversations:
Reduce shame and stigma
Encourage earlier support
Improve physical, emotional, and relational wellbeing
The Takeaway
Andropause is not male menopause, but it is a real and potentially impactful life stage for some men. It reflects a combination of hormonal, psychological, and lifestyle changes — and it deserves thoughtful, holistic care.
If symptoms are affecting quality of life, support is available, and help does not have to start or end with hormones alone.
