Pitopausia or Male Menopause: What it is and Symptoms 2026

As men age, it is common for them to experience physical and emotional changes related to hormonal decline. One of these changes is menopause, a term that describes the progressive decline in testosterone levels. Although it is not a formal medical diagnosis, it is a condition that can profoundly affect quality of life. In this article, we will explore what menopause is, its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and the treatment options available to effectively manage it.

What is menopause or menopause in men?

Male menopause or menopause is a term commonly used to replace the term: "andropause«.

Pythopause is a term used colloquially to refer to the decline in testosterone levels in men as they age. Although it is not an official medical term, it is similar to andropause or late hypogonadism. andropause It is nothing more than the natural process of male aging in which the level of testosterone in the blood decreases. It is also known as testosterone deficiency syndrome or hypogonadism.

El androgen deficiency o hypogonadism Late menopause is represented by a drop in testosterone levels in men. This process, also known as the "male menopause" begins around the age of 40. Fortunately, it does not lead to a cessation of fertility, but it may be associated with other symptoms such as: erectile dysfunction or loss of libido, among others.

Symptoms of andropause or menopause in men

Dr. Carlos Balmori, Urologist at IVI Madrid, explains that “sIt is a progressive process. At 70 years of age, men have approximately 30% less testosterone. This is the hormone responsible for maintaining muscle tone, bone mass and sexual function.".

Others common symptoms and easily detectable, although sometimes we unknowingly attribute them to other causes, are:

• Lack of appetite
• Fatigue and insomnia: if you sleep worse at night, you have trouble falling asleep, you wake up tired, etc.
• Loss of muscle mass: If you exercise but find it difficult to see results, if you no longer lose body fat as easily as before, etc.
• Osteoporosis and decreased bone mineral density
• Abnormal sweating
• Lack of concentration and decreased energy
• Irritability: Decreased testosterone in men can bring with it symptoms that are easily confused with depression or anxiety.
• Reduction in testicular size.
• Less firm erections.
• Loss of sexual appetite.
• The amount of semen is reduced by decreasing the intensity of ejaculation.

In addition, in many cases, a large number of cases present the so-called "metabolic syndrome." It is directly related to late hypogonadism, and is characterized by hyperglycemia, high uric acid, hypertension, obesity, or hypercholesterolemia. Balmori says that "The result of this symptomatic picture is a progressive loss of quality of life."

In another interview, conducted by the newspaper Infobae with psychologist Beatriz Goldberg, she explained:Premenopause begins before the age of 45 with symptoms that are not so noticeable. They are nervous, have trouble sleeping, start to have hot flashes and feel that they are not performing enough at work and in other areas of life.«Some men deny the situation or simply act as if nothing is happening. «They have a hard time recognizing that there is something they are missing. They have low testosterone, which is something that irritates them, makes them feel bad and makes them feel different.«.

Causes of Pitopausia or male menopause

La pitopause or male menopause It is usually caused by a decreased testosterone as men get older. Testosterone plays a fundamental role in a man's daily life., so much so that this hormone influences many physical, mental, and biochemical functions, acting on bones, muscles, sexual organs, the brain, body and facial hair, etc. Since testosterone affects many tissues, a lack of it can cause many different symptoms. Symptoms depend on the age of onset, the amount of testosterone deficiency, and the duration of the loss that has been occurring.

It usually begins after the age of 30. Some causes and factors that can accelerate this process include:

• Aging: Testosterone production declines by about 1% per year after age 30.

• Chronic stress: Elevated cortisol levels can reduce testosterone production.

• Obesity: Excess body fat is linked to lower hormone levels.

• Lack of physical activity: Sedentary lifestyle can contribute to testosterone loss.

• Excessive alcohol consumption: It may interfere with the production of sex hormones.

• Chronic diseases: Conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and autoimmune diseases.

Myths and Truths Menopause in Men

There are many myths about the menopause of the man, especially regarding its effects, consequences and symptoms.

Below we list and banish the most frequent ones:

1. Does libido occur during male menopause?

The relationship between loss of sexual desire and decreased testosterone levels is direct. As blood testosterone levels decrease, the number of spontaneous erections while sleeping will decrease. Similarly, problems with sexual desire may appear. dysfunctionIt should be noted that this process is generally gradual and the symptoms are noticed little by little.

Myth or reality: Realidad

2. Is it like menopause in women?

Although it is true that Some symptoms may be similar, such as tiredness, fatigue, loss of mental agility, etc., the differences are greater than the similarities. Female menopause occurs almost suddenly, in a short period of time, after which women are no longer fertile. In the case of men, andropause comes little by little and the loss of fertility is also gradual.

Myth or reality: Mito

3. Is muscle mass lost?

In addition to muscle loss, andropause causes a loss of bone densityThis aspect can lead to an increase in body fat and loss of strength. It should be noted that body hair can also decrease during this process.

Myth or reality: Realidad

4. Can breasts appear during male monopause?

There has been much talk about the possibility of suffering from gynecomastia (inflammation of the mammary glands) during andropause. And although it is true that this occurs in some men, it does not mean that the breasts grow in all cases or in a way that resembles that of women.

What's more, due to the loss of muscle mass, it is possible that the shape of our pectorals may simply change and, at most, they may no longer look like they did before.

Myth or reality: Mito

5. Are there sleep and emotional disorders?

A decrease in testosterone levels can cause sleep disorders in men or even insomnia, but this does not have to occur constantly and continuously; it can occur at alternating periods.

It is very important to keep in mind that low testosterone levels can also significantly alter a man's mood, causing sadness and, in more serious cases, even depression.

Lack of testosterone is closely related to low self-esteem.

Myth or reality: Realidad

Diagnosis

To diagnose menopause, doctors usually perform:

• Complete clinical history: Evaluation of symptoms.

• Physical exam: Check for signs of hormonal imbalance.

• Blood test: Measurement of total and free testosterone levels.

Treatment of Pitopausia

Treatment for menopause depends on the severity of symptoms and the impact on quality of life. Some options include:

1. Changes in lifestyle:

   • Regular exercise: Strength training and aerobic activity can help increase testosterone.

   • Balance diet: Eat nutrient-rich foods and avoid ultra-processed foods.

   • Stress reduction: Practice meditation, yoga or deep breathing techniques.

   • Adequate sleep: Sleep between 7 and 9 hours per night to maintain hormonal balance.

2. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT):

   • In severe cases, doctors may recommend hormone therapy to restore normal testosterone levels.

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3. Supplements:

   • Some supplements can support testosterone production, although they should always be taken under medical supervision.

When to seek medical help

If you are experiencing symptoms that are affecting your quality of life, it is important to seek medical attention. Proper diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve overall health and well-being.

Conclusion

Menopause is a real condition that affects men's lives in many ways. However, with proper care, lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medical interventions, it is possible to manage its effects and regain a better quality of life.

With lifestyle changes and, if necessary, appropriate medical treatments, it is possible to manage this condition and improve the quality of life. If you think you might be experiencing menopause, do not hesitate to consult a health professional to get the support you need.