Male Menopause: Does it Really Exist?

Published: 2025-08-18

Updated: 2025-08-18

3 mins

Male menopause (sometimes called andropause) is a real stage in many men’s lives, though it’s often misunderstood. Unlike the sudden hormonal changes women experience, male menopause develops gradually over time, bringing a range of male menopause symptoms such as fatigue, lower libido, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. 

It’s common for men to attribute these symptoms to aging, but recognizing the signs of male menopause can help both men and their partners identify and manage these changes early. In this article we’ll break down what male menopause really is and what options men have to help alleviate their symptoms.

What is Male Menopause?

Male menopause refers to the gradual hormonal changes that occur in men as they age. Unlike female menopause – which involves a relatively sudden drop in estrogen and marks the end of fertility – male menopause is characterized by a slow decline in testosterone levels over many years. This hormonal shift can lead to a variety of physical and emotional changes, including reduced energy, lower libido, mood fluctuations, and decreased muscle mass.

While some debate exists over whether men truly undergo menopause, research shows that men can experience these changes in a meaningful way. Understanding and recognizing that men do experience a kind of menopause helps normalize these changes and encourages men to seek support when needed. 

When Does Male Menopause Start?

Male menopause typically begins in the late 40s to early 50s, though the timing can vary widely among men. Some men may notice subtle changes in their energy, mood, or libido in their early 40s, while others may not experience noticeable symptoms until their mid-50s or later.

The variability largely depends on genetics, lifestyle factors, overall health, and individual hormone levels. Because the decline in testosterone happens gradually, the onset of symptoms can be subtle and easy to attribute to normal aging. Recognizing these early changes can help men and their partners address them proactively, rather than assuming they’re just an inevitable part of getting older.

How Long Does Male Menopause Last?

Male menopause is a gradual process, and its symptoms can develop slowly over several years. 

The duration and intensity of male menopause can vary significantly from one man to another. Some men may experience noticeable symptoms for only a few years, while others might notice them stretching over a decade or more. 

Factors such as overall health, lifestyle, and genetics can influence how long these changes last and how strongly they are felt. Understanding this variability helps men approach male menopause with realistic expectations and encourages proactive management of symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Male Menopause

Male menopause can bring a wide range of changes, both physical and emotional. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Fatigue

• Reduced libido

• Mood swings

• Sleep disturbances

• Decreased muscle mass

These changes are often gradual, which can make them easy to attribute to normal aging rather than a shift in hormone levels.

Less obvious symptoms can also occur. Cognitive changes, such as difficulty concentrating or memory lapses, and increased irritability are sometimes reported.

Myths and Misconceptions Surrounding Male Menopause

Male menopause is often misunderstood, and several common myths can make it harder for men to recognize or address the changes they’re experiencing.

One widespread misconception is that men experience menopause the same way women do. Unlike the sudden drop in estrogen during female menopause, male menopause involves a gradual decline in testosterone over many years. This slow progression means symptoms appear subtly and can vary greatly in intensity.

Another myth is that male menopause affects all men at the same age. In reality, the timing of hormonal changes is highly individual, influenced by genetics, lifestyle, and overall health. Some men may notice shifts in their late 40s, while others might not experience significant symptoms until their 50s or later.

A third misconception is that only elderly men experience hormonal changes. While age is a factor, declines in testosterone can begin well before traditional “old age”, and even relatively healthy men in middle age can notice symptoms of male menopause.

Dispelling these myths helps men and their partners approach male menopause with a clearer understanding and encourages proactive management of symptoms.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Diagnosing male menopause typically begins with a thorough evaluation of symptoms, including fatigue, mood changes, reduced libido, sleep disturbances, and other physical or cognitive shifts. Healthcare providers may also use hormone testing, particularly measuring testosterone levels, to confirm whether these changes are related to declining hormone production rather than other health conditions.

Treatment for male menopause can take several approaches. Lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management, can help alleviate many symptoms and support overall health. In some cases, medical interventions like testosterone replacement therapy may be recommended to restore hormone levels and improve quality of life. Other therapeutic approaches, including counseling or mental health support, can help manage mood swings, irritability, and cognitive changes.

Combining these strategies allows men to address male menopause holistically, rather than relying on a single solution, and empowers them to maintain vitality and well-being throughout this stage of life.

How Can Rex MD Help?

If you’re noticing changes that may be related to male menopause, speaking with a healthcare professional can help you understand your options. The Rex MD Testosterone Program offers access to licensed clinicians and a range of testosterone solutions, including testosterone replacement therapies when clinically appropriate.

To see if the program is a fit for you, you can answer a few questions about your symptoms and medical history. Your provider will review your information and order lab work if needed to help determine whether TRT or another testosterone option is available to you. From there, you can schedule a virtual consultation to discuss your results, eligibility, and potential next steps with the Rex MD care team.

Get started today.