While many of us are well-versed in the realities of menopause in women, not as many people are familiar with the hormonal changes that affect men as they get older.
Men too, however, experience a decline in sex hormones (also known as androgens), most notably testosterone, with age. This condition is often referred to as andropause or “male menopause.” The term male menopause isn’t accurate though because men’s hormonal changes are more gradual and there isn’t a cessation of bodily processes.
That said, low testosterone is associated with a spectrum of symptoms that can affect a man’s health and quality of life. In this post, we’ll dive into the nuances of waning testosterone levels and explore how bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can help men regain their vitality and wellbeing.
What is Andropause?
Men of any age, including young men, can suffer from low testosterone due to a health condition, drug use or other factors.
According to research in the Journal of Gerontology, andropause applies specifically to an age-related decline in serum testosterone levels that produces signs and symptoms of a deficiency.
Understanding Testosterone’s Role in Men’s Health
Testosterone is crucial for a number of bodily functions such as maintaining muscle mass and strength, producing red blood cells and sperm, maintaining bone mass and fostering a healthy sex drive.
The production of testosterone peaks by age 17 and stays high throughout a man’s 20s. A decline in testosterone typically begins after age 30.
The Massachusetts Male Aging Study found that by age 40, total testosterone declines an average of 1.6% per year and bioavailable testosterone goes down 2-3% per year. This can be worsened by factors like obesity, sleep apnea, chronic illnesses and certain medications.
Symptoms of Low Testosterone in Males
Dwindling levels of testosterone can manifest in various ways, including:
- Decreased libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Lower sperm count
- Sleep disturbances
- Reduced lean muscle mass
- Changes to the distribution of body fat
- Fatigue
- Mood changes, including depression and irritability
- Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
- Reduced bone density
- Hair loss
The Science Behind Testosterone Levels
It’s not just about measuring total testosterone in the blood. Testosterone exists in two forms: bound and free. Albumin forms a weak bond with testosterone. Only albumin-bound testosterone and free testosterone are bioavailable, meaning the body can actually use them.
Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) binds tightly to testosterone, making it inactive. As men age, they produce more SHBG, which claims more free testosterone. So while a man’s blood testosterone levels might be within the normal range, they can be deficient where it matters most, in bioavailable testosterone.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy: A Natural Solution
At Oasis Vein & Vitality, Dr. Steven Mehta specializes in hormone optimization using advanced bioidentical hormones. These hormones are chemically identical to the ones your body produces so they don’t have the same risks and side effects as synthetic hormones.
Whether for andropause treatment in an older man or low testosterone treatment in someone younger, bioidentical hormone replacement can effectively replenish testosterone and improve quality of life.
The Benefits of BHRT for Men
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can:
- Improve sexual function
- Enhance energy
- Improve mental clarity
- Help you maintain lean muscle mass
- Improve mood
- Encourage better sleep
- Reduce the risk of certain diseases
- Slow age-related decline
How Does Testosterone Replacement Therapy for Men Work?
While you can find men’s health clinics for testosterone therapy across the country, the training and experience of the provider matter. Dr. Mehta is a board-certified cardiologist and vein disease expert with specialized training in hormones and longevity. His background makes him uniquely positioned to assess your health on a deeper level and create a treatment plan that’s safe and tailored to your individual biology.
Based on an in-depth consultation and bloodwork, Dr. Mehta will determine if you have an imbalance and discuss your low testosterone treatment options. If you opt for BHRT, he’ll take a customized, titrated approach and adjust your dose until you’re at the optimal level.
Testosterone injections for men used to be the norm but today there are a host of options, including pills and patches. But the most popular choice at Oasis Vein & Vitality is testosterone pellets. The pellets are inserted under the skin and deliver a consistent dose of testosterone over several months, making it convenient and hands-off.
Integrating Lifestyle Changes for Enhanced Results
Making healthy lifestyle choices can help you maximize the benefits of bioidentical testosterone replacement therapy. These include:
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Getting adequate sleep
- Eating a balanced diet
- Moderating alcohol and tobacco use
The Bottom Line
If you’re experiencing symptoms such as brain fog, reduced sexual function, loss of muscle mass and fatigue, you could be suffering from a hormone imbalance. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is an effective, natural way to treat low testosterone and andropause.
Book a Consultation with Dr. Steven Mehta Today!
As a leader in customized hormone replacement therapy for men in Scottsdale and Prescott, AZ, we can help you reclaim your health, wellbeing and vitality. Call us at (480) 720-7044 to book a consultation with Dr. Mehta and receive personalized treatment recommendations.
