Morning erections are part of the normal functioning of the male body. When they become rarer or gradually disappear, many men don’t pay attention to them. However, this change can sometimes reveal age-related androgen deficiency (ALAD), better known as andropause. This gradual decline in testosterone can have repercussions well beyond your sex life.
A video recently published on Instagram by Léa Pateras-Pescara, doctor of pharmacy, reminds us that we should not draw hasty conclusions, but that it is useful to remain attentive to this signal when it is accompanied by other symptoms.
Can morning erections indicate andropause?
Andropause corresponds to a gradual decrease in testosterone production over the years. This hormone is involved in many functions in the body, including maintaining muscle mass, energy levels, mood and libido.
The frequency of morning erections may also be affected. As the expert explains, “when morning erections become rare, this may reflect a gradual decline in testosterone“. However, this sign alone is not enough to make a diagnosis.
Other elements can influence men’s hormonal health, including sleep quality, chronic stress, being overweight or even a lack of physical activity. Changing these lifestyle habits can sometimes help improve the symptoms experienced.
What symptoms should lead to consultation?
The decline in morning erections deserves a consultation when it is accompanied by other manifestations such as persistent fatigue, a reduction in libido, unexplained weight gain, a drop in muscle mass or even a depressed mood.
In this context, the video emphasizes an essential point: “No diagnosis is made without a blood test“. Only a medical evaluation can confirm a testosterone deficiency or rule out other diseases likely to cause similar symptoms.
The doctor can then offer a complete hormonal assessment and look for possible associated factors before considering appropriate treatment.
Lifestyle habits also play a role in hormonal balance
Even when a testosterone deficiency is suspected, healthy lifestyle remains important. A balanced diet, regular physical activity, sufficient sleep and better stress management help maintain good hormonal balance.
A few simple habits can accompany medical monitoring:
- Monitor the appearance or disappearance of morning erections over time;
- Maintain regular physical activity;
- Maintain a weight adapted to your body shape;
- Pay particular attention to the quality of sleep;
- Consult a healthcare professional in the event of persistent fatigue, reduced libido or other suggestive symptoms.
Andropause remains little known even though it can affect different aspects of men’s health. Faced with persistent changes, a medical assessment makes it possible to identify their origin and direct the most appropriate treatment.