What’s ‘Male Menopause’? — Ask Dr. Harry Fisch

Is there such a thing as the male menopause? -- Hannibal, 24, Denver

You bet! It goes by other names, such as “andropause” or the “male biological clock.” In women, menopause happens when estrogen levels drop relatively quickly, causing infertility and other symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats.

It’s different for guys. Male fertility, testosterone levels, and sexuality decline slowly with age. For example, men ages 35 or older have half the chance of fathering a child within 12 months, compared with a man who is a younger than 30. Older men are also more likely to father children with genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome.

The male biological clock also affects sexual performance, overall physical health, and mental functioning. But you can slow down the male biological clock by exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and taking time out to reduce your stress levels.

Dr. Harry Fisch is a board certified urologist. He’s here to answer reader questions in an effort to get guys to “man up about health.”