Andropause Testing and Treatment in Phoenix
“Andropause” is a term adapted from “menopause.” “Andro” is short for androgen, the class of hormones like testosterone that influence male development. While not wholly comparable to menopause, andropause can cause symptoms that significantly lower quality of life. At Living Wellness Medical Center in Phoenix, AZ , our naturopathic doctors use precise testing and natural, personalized treatment to restore hormone balance.
Request an AppointmentSymptoms of Andropause
In some men, hormone levels can begin declining as early as age 30. Because the decrease is gradual, it can go undetected for years. Common symptoms include:
- Mental changes: depression, decreased self-confidence, lack of motivation, and fatigue. Patients often say they feel like someone has “taken the wind out of my sails.”
- Sleep changes: insomnia or increased sleepiness
- Physical changes: difficulty losing weight, decline in muscle mass, increased breast tissue, loss of body hair, and changes in head hair thickness and growth
- Changes in sexual function: decreased libido and erectile dysfunction are the most common symptoms
How Do You Test for Andropause?
Hormone levels can be measured through blood or urine testing.
Blood Testing
Blood testing is a long-established, reliable way to check most hormones, especially for men who have not yet started hormone replacement therapy. You don’t need to fast, but testosterone should be measured with an early morning blood draw. Many substances in the body follow a circadian rhythm, and research published in the Journal of Urology shows testosterone peaks around 7:00 am for men under 45. If you were told you have low testosterone from an afternoon blood draw, it is worth retesting at the right time of day.
DUTCH Urine Testing
The DUTCH (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones), developed by Precision Analytical, measures hormone levels from urine samples collected at specific times over 24 hours. Unlike blood testing, it also measures hormone metabolites, or breakdown products, which provide valuable insight into cancer risk, methylation, and HPA axis (hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal) dysfunction. This single test also measures your 24-hour cortisol rhythm and nighttime melatonin production, which affect sleep quality, weight loss, and more. Learn more about our laboratory testing and adrenal stress panel.
Treatment Options for Andropause
Our naturopathic doctors use a variety of approaches to balance hormones naturally, often in combination:
- Nutrition and dietary changes: the foods you eat can help or interfere with hormone balance. Learn about our dietary counseling.
- Plant-based medicines: botanical medicine chosen for your individual hormone profile can gently and powerfully restore balance.
- Hormone replacement: a reliable way to raise and balance hormones, available as creams, injections, and pellets.
Check out our Happy Hormones at Home Guide for natural ways to support your hormones.
Supporting Your Long-Term Health
Balanced hormones support more than energy and sex drive. They also affect heart health, bone density, body composition, and mood. Your physician will monitor your levels and adjust treatment over time as part of comprehensive men’s health care. Learn more about bioidentical hormone replacement.
Andropause FAQs
What is andropause?
Andropause refers to the gradual decline of androgen hormones like testosterone in men, which can cause fatigue, low mood, weight gain, muscle loss, sleep changes, and decreased sexual function.
At what age does andropause start?
In some men, hormone levels can begin declining around age 30. Because the decline is gradual, it can go unnoticed for many years.
What is the best time to test testosterone?
Testosterone should be tested with an early morning blood draw, since levels peak around 7:00 am in men under 45. Fasting is not required.
What is the DUTCH test?
The DUTCH test is a dried urine test that measures hormones and their metabolites over 24 hours, along with cortisol rhythm and melatonin production.
What treatments are available for andropause?
Treatment may include nutrition and dietary changes, botanical medicine, and hormone replacement through creams, injections, or pellets.
Can andropause cause erectile dysfunction?
Yes. Declining testosterone commonly contributes to low libido and erectile dysfunction.
How do I get tested for andropause?
Call (480) 588-6856 to schedule a consultation, and your physician will order the right hormone testing for you.
Feel Like Yourself Again
Get the wind back in your sails with personalized hormone care. Call Living Wellness Medical Center in Phoenix, AZ at (480) 588-6856 to schedule your andropause consultation.
