Menopause also affects men

Andropause: Menopause affects about every fifth man

14/06/2011

Hot flashes, sweats and mood swings - there are easier stages for men than witnessing a woman's menopause. That too „Strength“ Sex is suffering from hormone changes, but know the least. Known in the jargon as andropause, male menopause affects about one in five men. Strictly speaking, the andropause is not a disease, but a natural phase of life that is more unspecific and less pronounced in contrast to the female menopause. The Uro GmbH points out an association of urologists from North Rhine-Westphalia.

As with menopausal women, andropause is associated with some concomitants, sometimes requiring the advice of a urologist. „Men in andropause often complain of sexual aversion, loss of performance, skin changes, but also depression and erectile dysfunction“, explains Dr. Reinhold Schaefer, urologist and medical spokesman of the Uro GmbH. „But classic hormone replacement therapy does not exist in men. Although it is possible in principle, it should only be done after a thorough urological examination.“ Depending on the cause, which only the urologist can exactly diagnose, come hormone treatments, the administration of so-called PD5 inhibitors, but also other measures in question. In addition to a detailed conversation, a physical examination also belongs to the diagnosis, in order to rule out organic causes for the complaints. Blood tests determine the concentration of sex hormones in the blood. At low values ​​speaks much for male menopause. A questionnaire also helps to determine the severity and the need for treatment. (Pm)

Image: Thomas Meinert, pixelio.de