Andropause is a term used to describe the age related decreasing levels of the production of the hormone testosterone (male sex hormone) in men. It is also loosely referred to as “male menopause” though it is quite different from female menopause. Testosterone is important Sexual and Reproductive Health Training Module for Youth Empowerment Platforms in Kenya 20 20 for male sexual and reproductive development including the development of male sex organs before birth and secondary sex characteristics at puberty such as voice deepening, increased penis and testes size, and growth of facial and body hair.
Andropause may be characterized by changes in sexual function such as erectile dysfunction, reduce sexual desire, fewer spontaneous erections and infertility. Additionally, it may cause changes in sleeping patterns, physical appearance or emotionally.