Biodentical Hormone Replacement for Men

Is There a Male Menopause?

Men at mid-life are no more immune than their female counterparts to a drop in hormone production as we age. The so-called 'male menopause', or as it is officially named, "andropause", signifies the midlife retreat of androgens, the male hormones: DHEA, and in particular, testosterone, the most potent force underlying mental and physical energy in men. In contrast to the 'roller coaster' effect so common to women in menopause, the symptoms of andropause are much less obvious. So while the average male may initially be unprepared for the subtle signs of hormone deficiency, the good news is that its gradual appearance allows time to make adjustments.

Symptoms of andropause include:

Fatigue	Sleep disturbances
Headaches	Depression
Anxiety	Nervousness
Apathy	Decreased libido
Less stamina	Erectile dysfunction
Prostate problems	Decreased urine flow
Increased urinary urge	Premature aging
Thinning/sagging skin	Insulin resistance
Hot flashes	Night sweats
Mood swings	Stress
Abdominal weight gain	Decreased strength
Decreased mental sharpness	Elevated triglycerides
Bone loss	Decreased muscle mass
Memory lapses	Decreased exercise capacity
Thinning hair/beard	Breast enlargement
Irritability

The first thing a man entering andropause generally notices is a subtle downward shift in strength and energy as hormone levels taper off. He may begin to lose his enthusiasm for the challenge of work, competition and sexual activity. As symptoms kick in, hormone testing can identify andropause as well as hidden imbalances and/or related deficiencies.

As normal aging puts the brakes on hormone production, the decline can be more precipitous in some men than others. The bottom line is lifestyle and how well men take care of themselves.

Men can try the following steps to restore normal hormone balance:

• Request bioidentical hormones, if supplementing
• Throw out testosterone robbers like caffeine, alcohol and cigarettes
• Reduce weight-fat cells lower available testosterone by converting it to estrogen
• Boost testosterone through strength training
• Counteract stress with regular exercise
• Choose hormone-free foods
• Take a daily multi-vitamin/mineral that includes zinc
• Get plenty of sleep
• Make time to do the things you enjoy!
• Set an appointment at Indigo MedSpa or with a physician to test hormone levels

How Can Indigo Help?

If you are experiencing hormone imbalances that you feel are negatively affecting your quality of life, call Indigo MedSpa to book your consultation with Dr. Stephen PreFontaine. Indigo accepts several health insurance providers for the treatment of hormonal imbalance. To learn how we can help you feel your best call 616.336.7662 or click on "book a consultation".

Will treatment be covered by my insurance?

Indigo MedSpa does not participate directly with insurance companies. We strive to be an advocate for our patients, and our philosophy is such that the patient and physician should be the ones deciding what is best for the patient, not someone working at an insurance company. Although we do not accept insurance as payment, our services may be covered by your insurance company. To help with your reimbursement process, our Indigo staff will provide you with an encounter form at each office visit. You may submit these to your insurance company for direct reimbursement to you. To learn if you are a good candidate for hormone therapy, book your consultation today by calling 616.336.7662 or click on book a consultation.

*Some information about Andropause provided by ZRT Laboratory