Hormonal balance in men's sexual well-Being After 40 years

As time progresses, we realize that the hormonal dance that occurs within our body plays a crucial role in our sexual health. Especially in men who have crossed the 40-year-old barrier, a proper hormonal balance can be the secret ingredient to a healthy and satisfying sex life.

Testosterone The Key Hormone

Testosterone is essential for many functions in the male body, including sperm production, fat distribution, red blood cell production and, of course, sexual function. ( 1) Over time, it is normal for testosterone levels to decrease. This decline can begin as early as the mid-30s and continue throughout a man's life. However, the speed and magnitude of this decline can vary considerably among men. (2)

We call it “the key hormone” because its role is so important that lower-than-normal testosterone levels can cause symptoms such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and loss of muscle mass ( 3). Although it is true that testosterone levels tend to decrease with age, the good news is that it does not necessarily translate into sexual health problems. Men with healthy testosterone levels can continue to enjoy an active and satisfying sex life even into old age (4)

Hormonal Imbalance

Male sexual dysfunction is not always a result of decreased testosterone. Thyroid problems, which are quite common after age 40, can also contribute to sexual problems. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can result in erectile dysfunction and decreased libido. (5)

A hormonal imbalance can occur when the body produces too much or too little testosterone. (6) There are several ways in which a hormonal imbalance can occur. Some of the possible triggers include:

• Aging: Testosterone levels in men tend to decline with age.
• Underlying health problems: Some medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and certain heart diseases, can affect testosterone levels. (7)
• Lifestyle: Factors such as diet, physical activity, stress, and sleep can influence hormone levels. (8)

Identifying a hormonal imbalance can be complicated, as symptoms can vary considerably from person to person. Some of the possible signs of a hormonal imbalance in men include (9):

• Mood changes, such as feeling more irritable or anxious than normal.
• Decreased sexual desire or difficulties with erectile function.
• Fatigue or lack of energy.
• Loss of muscle mass or increase in body fat.
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering things.
• Changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or excessive sleepiness.

If you suspect that you may be experiencing a hormonal imbalance, it is important to speak with a health professional. They can perform tests to measure your hormone levels and, if necessary, can work with you to develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Achieving Hormonal Balance

There are a number of ways to maintain or even improve hormonal balance. Lifestyle changes, such as healthy eating, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, can have a significant impact on hormonal health. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight is essential since obesity can interfere with the production of several hormones, including testosterone. (10)

In case of a severe hormonal imbalance, a series of treatments could be considered, which can be simply taking a medication that helps achieve the necessary balance in the body to more complex therapies. But it is very important to remember that any hormonal treatment must always be supervised by a health professional since it is a personalized diagnosis that requires close monitoring. (eleven)

The crucial thing to highlight is that maintaining hormonal balance is essential for men's sexual health, especially after the age of 40, and today there are treatments to achieve it easily. If you have questions about your sexual health or hormonal levels, do not hesitate to consult a medical professional who can guide you with the best treatment alternatives for your needs.