The Male Menopause Syndrome

Thesis: Our physical ability peaks in early adulthood however, like the declining daylight

after the summer solstice, our muscular strength and reaction time begin to wither. In

later life, the stairs are no longer an option if the elevators around. The newsprint gets

smaller and people begin to mumble. So begins the era in one's life scientifically known

as the "mid-life crisis". For men, "male menopause (also known as andropause or

viropause) begins with hormonal, physiological chemical changes that occur in all men

generally between the ages of forty and fifty-five, though it can occur as early as thirty

five or as late as fifty-five." Throughout the life of a male there are several

psychological issues that he struggles with, and these challenges are often amplified

during the time of the Andropause: his sexuality, his emotions, his mind, his courage,

his productivity, his personality, his character, and his boyish behaviors.

I. Age changes in the male system

A. Testes

1. Size

2. Seminiferous tubules and interstitial cells

3. Sperm and hormone production

B. Glands

1. Seminal vesicles

2. Prostate gland

C. Penis

II. Age changes in male sexual activity

A. Contributing factors and heterogeneity

B. Excitement phase