Understanding "Manopause": Myths and Facts About Male Hormonal Changes

male menopause is sometimes called andropause

Let’s talk about something that doesn’t always get the spotlight but really should: male menopause.

It's not a midlife crisis, although some folks may experience major shifts during this phase of life.

Yes, male menopause is a real thing, and no, it doesn’t mean you’re about to start stocking up on ice cream and tissues for those late-night emotional TV binges. (Although, hey, no judgment from me if you do.) And. For the sticklers out there -- I know men can't go through literal menopause, but the term is being "coined" as a way to explain what men go through as they age.

Male menopause, sometimes called andropause, refers to the changes some men experience as they age, particularly related to dropping testosterone levels. It’s not quite the same as what women go through during menopause, but it’s just as important to understand.

Why? Because these changes can affect everything from your energy levels to your mood to your ability to keep up with your fantasy football league—or, you know, life in general. It might feel easier to shrug it off or blame a bad day on getting older, there’s real world science behind what’s happening. Knowing the signs and what to expect can make a world of difference in how you handle it.

Understanding what’s going on with your body is key to staying healthy—and, let’s be honest, it might just save you from the occasional midlife speedbumps.

So, when does male menopause typically begin?

Well, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer because everyone’s body is a little different. That said, most men start to notice changes somewhere between their late 40s and early 50s. For some, it might kick in earlier—say, your mid to late 30s—and for others, it could hold off until their 60s.

This timing is tied to a gradual drop in testosterone, the hormone responsible for a lot of things that make you feel like-- you.

Testosterone levels naturally dip as men age. How quickly this happens can depend on a mix of factors. Genetics, lifestyle, overall health, and even stress can all play a role. So if you’re a guy juggling long work hours, less-than-stellar eating habits, or skipping out on sleep, low testosterone might show in your life sooner than later.

The important thing to remember is that these changes don’t just happen overnight. It’s more like a slow shift that sneaks up on you over time. You might not even connect the dots at first—maybe you’re feeling a bit more tired than usual or not quite as sharp during those 8 a.m. meetings. But once you start to notice patterns, that’s your cue to take a closer look.

Oh, and here’s a quick heads-up: not all men experience male menopause in the same way, and some might not even notice significant symptoms at all. If you’re feeling like something’s off, though, it’s worth a conversation with your doctor. The earlier you know what’s going on, the sooner you can take steps to feel more like yourself again—or maybe even better.

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symptoms of low testosterone

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty: what are the symptoms of male menopause?

The symptoms can range from physical changes to emotional shifts that might leave you scratching your head—or reaching for that extra cup of coffee.

First up, the physical stuff. One of the most common signs is lower energy levels. You might notice that your get-up-and-go feels more like sit-down-and-stay. Sleep might also start playing games with you—trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up feeling like you barely got any rest at all. Weight gain, especially around the belly, might become a frustrating new guest that refuses to leave, even if you’re eating the same and hitting the gym like before. Oh, and don’t be surprised if your muscles feel like they’ve gone on a bit of a vacation, as muscle mass can decline with lower testosterone.

There’s more. Changes in libido or sexual performance can also show up, and while that might feel awkward to acknowledge, it’s really common and worth discussing with your doctor. Some men also notice hot flashes—not just for the ladies!—and increased sweating. And if your bones feel a bit more fragile than before, that could be related too, as testosterone plays a role in bone health.

Now for the emotional side. You might find yourself feeling more irritable or impatient. Some men describe it as being stuck in a funk or just feeling off without being able to pinpoint why. Anxiety and mild depression aren’t out of the question either, and it’s worth noting that these feelings are real and valid. On the flip side, you might notice mood swings that surprise even you—like tearing up during a touching commercial or snapping at a family member over something small (and then immediately feeling bad about it).

Brain fog can also come into play, making it harder to concentrate, remember things, or keep track of all those random passwords we’re supposed to know by heart. And let’s not forget motivation. If you suddenly feel like you’re dragging your feet on things you used to enjoy, that could be part of the package too.

Here’s the thing: there are ways to manage this phase of life, whether that’s through lifestyle adjustments, medical support, or simply cutting yourself some slack. The most important takeaway? You’re not alone, and noticing these changes is just the first step toward figuring out how to feel like yourself again.

GO DEEPER:

Visit my Andropause or Something Else Symptom Checklist here.