Healthy talk.

Like women, many men struggle with physical and psychological changes during mid-life. But unlike female menopause, which signals the end of a woman's fertility, a man's "change of life" has relatively no impact on his reproductive capacity. A decline in testosterone is slow and progressive, and most men can reproduce into their 70s.

Known by several names, including andropause, male climacteric, viropause, and low testosterone syndrome, male menopause should not be confused with a midlife crisis. A midlife crisis is what happens when men have a hard time handling the life changes that typically begin around 40. Aging parents, mortality issues and job frustration are some of the hazards that hit around this time. To avoid being overwhelmed, men should remain aware and confront them constructively. It's also important to stay connected to friends and family. Reaching out for support and exploring emotions are always helpful.

In reality, male menopause can result in some of the same challenges as female menopause, including increased fat, decreased muscle and bone mass, hot flashes, irritability, mood swings, depression, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, breast tenderness and/or enlargement. Additionally, it can cause erectile dysfunction and a decrease in beard growth. The important thing to remember is that it doesn't affect all men the same way. And if you're experiencing extreme difficulty or a dramatic decrease in testosterone, there are treatment options available. Testosterone replacement therapy is one alternative.

Andrew J. Vosburgh is medical director for St. John Health System Occupational Health Partners. For more information about male menopause, call [phone].