ADVERTISEMENT
It’s rarely discussed, yet it affects millions of men from the age of 40. Unexplained fatigue, mood swings, decreased libido: these signs, which many attribute to stress, could reveal a very real hormonal phenomenon. Discover seven keys to understanding andropause, this silent transition that deserves your full attention.
Far from being a mere rumor, andropause is a documented physiological process. Referring to the gradual decline in testosterone levels in men, it generally occurs between the ages of 45 and 50. This essential hormone influences muscle tone, vitality, libido, and also psychological well-being. Yet, many men still ignore the signs of this change, mistakenly attributing them to the simple passage of time or accumulated fatigue.
Andropause does not cause sterility
The first misconception to dispel: andropause does not cause infertility. The testicles continue to produce sperm, although their quality may decline slightly with age. It is primarily sexual functions—desire, erection, ejaculation—that may be affected, without compromising the ability to conceive a child.
Sexual desire can collapse for no apparent reason.
A decrease in libido is one of the most common symptoms of andropause. Without any obvious psychological trigger, desire diminishes, which can create tension in a relationship. It’s crucial not to feel guilty: this phenomenon is purely hormonal and has nothing to do with a lack of affection or willpower.
The body sends a multitude of signals
Night sweats, persistent fatigue, headaches, dry skin, hair loss: individually, these symptoms may seem harmless. But when they accumulate, they form a suggestive clinical picture. Andropause also affects blood circulation, physical recovery capacity, and sleep quality.
Continued on the next page
ADVERTISEMENT
