Sent to you by Jane Kennedy NP, MPH

OK ladies, so you've put some time and energy into balancing your hormones and seen improvements in your life and even in your libido. But, what about the man* in your life? Is he living a vital life, able to match your energy and your libido in a healthy way?

We do not even have to look at one of the many pertinent studies to know that women are most often the ones in a family to seek medical care, educate themselves about health issues, and promote healthy changes in the lives of their families. So, you may be the one to help your male partner understand what is happening, or may happen to him as his hormones naturally decline and what he can do about it.

It may be surprising that many of the symptoms of male hormonal decline, often called andropause, are similar to those of women. The same depressed mood, fatigue, insomnia, lack of motivation to exercise, weight gain, poor glucose metabolism, and certainly lower and lower libido along with a decrease in satisfying sexual experiences, are all part of the "natural" progression. Of course, women's disruption of the menstrual cycle at menopause can make for more dramatic and sudden changes for many of us. But, some men can also have more rapidly developing symptoms such as depression, erectile dysfunction, hot flashes, memory loss, and severe anxiety.

During andropause, men usually experience hormonal decline over a longer period of time than women, anywhere from 5 to 15 years. As a result, these symptoms often creep up on them, and they do not notice them or think that it is the "normal aging process." The after dinner crashing for the evening into the Lazy Boy and inability to do anything else after a days' work can seem to be "normal," but it can in fact be a sign of hormonal decline.

The primary male sex hormone is testosterone. In andropause, the testes gradually decline in their ability to produce this hormone. As testosterone declines, a man's comparatively low level of estrogen usually begins to rise and in many men becomes a bigger and bigger problem affecting everything from carbohydrate metabolism, weight gain, cardiovascular risks, and prostate health. Men also naturally have progesterone in their bodies, and it similarly declines with resulting effects on sleep and mood.

All of these changes result in symptoms that can adversely impact quality of life as well as health risks for the long term.

From current research, we know that andropause is a lethal disease causing diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, osteoporosis, anemia, sarcopenia (muscle wasting), inflammation, and brain dysfunctions. Yet, the risks of these can be significantly and sometimes totally reduced by continuing a hormonal balance with bio-identical testosterone. (See "Testosterone Syndrome" by Eugene Shippen, MD as well as other sources)

Fortunately, men also can effectively use bio-identical hormones and achieve the benefits of eliminating adverse symptoms, slowing down aging, and preventing disease risks now and for the long term. Therapy needs to start with an evaluation that includes pertinent lab testing. This helps us to determine the best therapy based on the current efficacy of the testes. Sometimes, estrogen inhibitors and medications to stimulate more testosterone production are indicated before testosterone itself is prescribed. All of these approaches are discussed to provide the most appropriate and effective treatment.

When testosterone is prescribed, it is usually in the form of a topical skin gel, but can take the form of injections when more intense therapy is needed. Periodic evaluations and lab testing are necessary in either case to ensure that the hormones are in an optimal range and that they are balanced.

Men, just like women at mid-life, have specific needs for health evaluations and treatment to provide optimal health, vitality, and prevention of diseases for the long term. Thyroid function, adrenal balance, metabolism, glucose, cholesterol, diet, exercise, stress management, and supplements are all issues that should be addressed for achieving balanced health at this important time of life.

The women in my practice in many cases encourage (and sometimes drag) their men in to be evaluated. But once men understand what is happening to them and the benefits that can be obtained from hormone treatment, they are often eager to explore the possibilities.

Finally, let's get real and recognize that a woman's life can also be enriched when she has a partner who is ready to meet her vitality and libido - both of you supported by hormonal balance.

Experience optimal health and enjoy a healthy sense of libido with your partner along the way!

*Although this article happens to be written from the perspective of heterosexual couples, it applies equally to gay and lesbian couples and I am happy to work with all of you.

Enjoy life each day!

Be well!
Jane

Jane Kennedy
Nurse Practitioner

Gordon Medical Associates

Please send your comments or questions to me at:
jane@gordonmedical.com

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