If you think only women undergo menopause, you are dead wrong. Men also undergo menopause which experts specifically call as “andropause.” This page lists down some basic questions and answers about the condition. The responses are a synthesis of the opinions given by experts on the field. Read on and find out what else you do not know about andropause.

Q: What is andropause?

A: Andropause is actually the “male counterpart” of menopause. Men who undergo andropause are usually in their late forties and sometimes mistake andropause as mid-life crisis.

Q: What is the difference between andropause and mid-life crisis then?

A: Mid-life crisis is mostly a psychological event as a man responds to drastic changes around him and about his life, his career, his family and his personal goals and feelings of self-worth. On the other hand, andropause is really a medical condition that involves a decline or drop of (testosterone) hormone levels in a man. Most often, the two go together and even exhibit similar signs, which is why andropause is sometimes mistaken as just a simple mid-life crisis issue.

Q: What are the common signs and symptoms of andropause?

A: The signs and symptoms are myriad, but a few common ones stand out. They include but are not limited to the following: irritability, depression, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, decreased muscle mass, increased body fats, shrunken testicles, night sweats, poor concentration, brittle bones and fatigue.

Q: Is there any way in which andropause can be prevented?

A: Unfortunately, no. Just as menopause is unavoidable for women, andropause is a natural condition for males. Although the condition cannot be prevented, its onset can be delayed. Smooth transition continues to be a key in accepting and braving the reality of andropause.

Q: How can men prepare for andropause?

A: The whole ordeal entails a combination of both physical and mental challenges. To cope with andropause, men should be able to prepare for both aspects. The following are quick tips given by Dr. Robert Tan, geriatrician and author of “The Andropause Mystery: Unraveling Truths About the Male Menopause:”

• Control and organize yourself. Quit drinking and smoking. Practice sound time management.

• Do not neglect exercise. Focus on muscle toning and cardiovascular exercises.

• Enjoy aging. Stay satisfied because some things are inevitable, no matter what you do.

• Feed yourself qualitatively. Eat the right kind of food to better adjust to the aging process.

• Love and reward yourself.

• Rest well. Accept and be wary of the physiological changes that normally accompany aging.

Q: Can andropause be cured?

A: Again, no. Andropause is not a disease but merely an inevitable phase in a man's life. However, as in the case of women undergoing or anticipating to go through menopause, there are hormonal supplements to run to. Hormone replacement therapy also looks like a promising prospect to many males, although technically, men should not really worry so much about decreased testosterone level. Even at an old age, men are virile and are very much capable of fathering children.