Men's Sexual Health or "Andropause"

As men age, essential hormone levels naturally decline.  The first thing a man usually notices as his hormones taper off is a subtle downward shift in strength and energy.  He may lose enthusiasm for the things he used to enjoy--the challenge of work, competition, and exercise.  If fatigue sets in more quickly and the only desirable bedroom activity is a good night’s sleep, chances are he is entering The Andropause Zone.

Unlike the roller coaster ride midlife women may experience, men don’t always know what hit them.  Male menopause is nonetheless real, and it has a name: Andropause, from the Greek andro (male) and pausis (stop).  Andropause signals the retreat of the vital androgens DHEA and especially testosterone—the key player in male hormonal health and balance.

In his prime, 95% of a man’s testosterone is made by the testicles in response to signals from the brain.  By age 50, the signal to “make more testosterone” has grown weaker and aging testes are less likely to respond.  As total hormone supplies slide, the growing shortage impacts virility, stamina, and the drive we associate with the male of the species. It also impacts the health of the cardio-vascular system and the brain.

While healthy life-style changes like weight-bearing exercise and good diet can slow the decline of male hormone production, sometimes it’s not enough.  At the Center for Preventive Medicine we will use sophisticated lab tests to discover your individual hormone levels.  Depending on the results we may recommend dietary changes, herbal supplements shown to boost hormone levels, or even bio-identical natural hormone replacement.  By taking these steps we can help restore a man’s zest for living!

Getting back in the groove:  a Men’s Health case study

Center for Preventive Medicine
603-673-7910
3 Overlook Drive, Suite 1
Amherst, NH 03031