Issues with hormones is a problem that is mainly associated with women. However, men can suffer from hormonal imbalances too. Men’s hormonal health is not as widely discussed and there are many misconceptions regarding the subject. So, as the country’s leading BHRT clinic, we thought we would answer some of the most common questions about male hormonal imbalances to spread awareness and help men take control of their hormone health in 2024.
Do men have hormone imbalances?
Yes, men can experience hormonal imbalances which arise due to various factors, impacting their overall health and quality of life.The most common type of hormone imbalance in men is low testosterone, which can cause a number of unpleasant symptoms such as a loss of sex drive, a lack of energy, and fatigue.
What causes hormone imbalance in men?
There are many different factors that can contribute to a male hormone imbalance. These include:
- Age
As men age, their testosterone levels begin to decline. If they become too low then men can go through what is known as male menopause, or andropause, which can bring about many emotional and physical changes. Andropause usually occurs in men from 30 onwards, with symptoms becoming noticeable between a man’s late 40’s to early 50’s.
Find out more about the signs of andropause and how to spot them here.
- Stress
Stress can have a major impact on your hormones. High levels of the stress hormone cortisol causes testosterone levels to decrease, leading to a hormonal imbalance.
- Not enough sleep
Testosterone levels are closely tied to the amount of sleep you get. As you fall asleep your testosterone levels rise and are thought to peak during REM sleep. Therefore having a poor sleep routine can negatively affect your hormones.
- Excess weight
Being overweight or obese is linked to lower levels of testosterone. Having decreased levels of testosterone can also lead to further weight gain creating a vicious cycle.
What are the symptoms of a hormone imbalance in men
For men, a hormonal imbalance can manifest in a range of different symptoms that can affect them both physically and mentally, including:
- Fatigue
- Memory loss
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Loss of libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Weight gain
- Muscle loss
These changes can have a major impact on a man’s quality of life and mental wellbeing, so it’s important that if you are experiencing any of these symptoms that you seek treatment.
How long is a man’s hormone cycle?
Men’s hormones work on a 24 hour cycle, in contrast to the average 28 day cycle of women. During a men’s daily cycle, testosterone levels are highest in the morning and decrease throughout the day, dropping to their lowest levels at night. This means that men will feel their most energetic and focused in the morning, while feeling more sluggish and fatigued as the day progresses. Although male hormones do fluctuate throughout the day, the hormonal changes are not as drastic as the changes seen in women.
How do you treat a hormonal imbalance in men?
For many men the idea of having a hormonal imbalance may not have even occurred to them. But, just like women, men can experience hormonal imbalances throughout their life. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of the symptoms to look out for and educate yourself on your hormonal health.
Symptoms of a male hormone imbalance usually occur due to a lack of testosterone. The simple fix to this problem is to increase the amount of testosterone to their optimal levels. This can be done through testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
“Low testosterone can lead to a range of symptoms that have a major impact on a man’s health, from anxiety and depression to erectile dysfunction. Our leading bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) and personalised plans are a highly effective way for men to regain their physical health and mental well-being, helping them on the road to feeling themselves again.”
-Dr Elaine McQuade
At the Marion Gluck Clinic we understand how important it is for men to have the right hormone balance. Through our bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) and personalised treatment plans we can get men back to feeling their best. Bioidentical hormones differ from traditional hormone replacement therapy in that it is derived from natural sources and has the same chemical structure as the hormones found in your body.
What are the benefits of testosterone replacement therapy for men?
Testosterone is an incredibly important hormone for men in order for their body to function as it should. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can help restore many of the health benefits lost due to a depletion in your natural testosterone levels particularly as you age. This includes improving your bone health, cardiovascular function, energy levels, libido and muscle mass. Along with improving your mental function and emotional wellbeing.
If you are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone then book a consultation with our expert hormone doctors and start your journey to better health now.
