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The East Midlands Ambulance Service has made headlines with a progressive move — offering up to a year of paid leave for men facing what some refer to as the ‘male menopause’ or andropause.
While this initiative is aimed at supporting men through mid-life changes, it has sparked controversy regarding the legitimacy of ‘male menopause’.
Andropause, previously known as the ‘male climacteric’ dating back to the 1940s, is a term used to describe a range of symptoms associated with hormonal changes in men as they age. Dr Parkash Chandra Shetty, a urologist from Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital, Powai, told indianexpress.com that the symptoms of male menopause can vary from person to person, with not all men experiencing them.
“Common symptoms of andropause include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, reduced muscle mass and strength, fatigue, mood swings, changes in sleep patterns, increased body fat (especially in the abdominal area), and lower bone density,” he said.
While it typically affects men between the ages of 45 to 65, certain lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, chronic illnesses, obesity, and specific medications can exacerbate these symptoms.
The NHS does not officially recognise andropause as a medical condition. Dr Shetty highlighted that male menopause is primarily caused by fluctuations in testosterone levels as men age, but not all men go through this experience, and its timing and intensity vary according to an individual’s health.
While the East Midlands Ambulance Service’s effort to support men during this phase is commendable, some argue that labeling it ‘male menopause’ downplays the significant physiological changes women undergo during menopause.
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“Female menopause typically begins between the ages of 45 to 50, characterised by a sharp decline in estrogen levels with symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. In contrast, male menopause involves a gradual decline in testosterone levels, with no distinct physiological event akin to the cessation of menstruation,” Dr Shetty noted.
However, men dealing with andropause can adopt several strategies to manage their symptoms effectively:
The NHS does not officially recognise andropause as a medical condition. (Source: Freepik)
- Healthy lifestyle habits: Prioritising a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress reduction, and avoiding excessive smoking and alcohol consumption can make a substantial difference.
- Mental and emotional health: Engaging in activities like meditation, seeking support from mental health professionals, and expanding social connections can help with mood-related symptoms.
- Regular check-ups: Consistent visits to the doctor can aid in understanding hormonal fluctuations, addressing health issues, adjusting medications, and devising suitable treatment strategies.
- Alternative therapies: Herbal supplements, meditation, regular exercise, and acupuncture are potential options to address andropause symptoms. However, consulting a healthcare professional before trying any alternative remedies is crucial.
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can be an effective form of treatment, administered through injections, patches, gels, or pellets. Consulting a doctor before initiating hormonal therapy is essential.
Dr Shetty emphasised the importance of men experiencing andropause symptoms consulting with healthcare professionals for an accurate assessment and guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
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