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Official Article Publication

COU Research & Study Center

Catholic Open University

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by:

Dr. Anne Marie McIlwraith

COU Member ID:

966112

September 1, 2025

The 10 Signs You May Be in Manopause:
Understanding the Midlife Hormonal Shift in Men

Manopause, also known as andropause or male menopause, is a real and under-recognized phase in a man’s life when testosterone levels begin to decline, usually from the age of 35 onward. While this is a natural part of aging, it can have a serious impact on your mental, physical, emotional, and sexual health.


This guide outlines 10 key signs that may indicate you're experiencing Manopause — and offers clarity on what to do next.


The 10 Signs You May Be in Manopause


1. Low Energy or Constant Fatigue

You wake up tired, rely heavily on caffeine, or feel like you’re running on empty — even when you’ve had enough rest.


2. Mood Swings or Irritability

Feeling more impatient, snappy, anxious, or down than usual? Hormonal changes can affect emotional regulation just like in menopause.


3. Loss of Motivation or Drive

A noticeable dip in your ambition, focus, or purpose can signal low testosterone and declining dopamine levels.


4. Decreased Libido

You’re less interested in sex or find it harder to get or maintain an erection — even though you want to connect with your partner.


5. Poor Sleep or Insomnia

Struggling to fall asleep or waking up frequently in the night may indicate hormonal imbalance or stress overload.


6. Weight Gain (Especially Belly Fat)

Even with the same diet or exercise routine, your body changes — and stubborn fat around the midsection appears.


7. Reduced Muscle Strength

You may feel weaker or notice that it’s harder to maintain muscle mass at the gym.


8. Brain Fog or Forgetfulness

You forget names, lose your train of thought, or struggle to stay focused for long periods.


9. Hot Flashes or Night Sweats

Yes — men can get hot flashes too. Sudden body heat, sweating, and discomfort are real signs of male hormonal shifts.


10. Feeling Disconnected or Lost

You may feel like you’ve lost your edge, direction, or sense of identity — a common emotional symptom of manopause.


What Can You Do?


If any of these signs sound familiar, you’re not alone — and you’re not broken. You may be in a normal, treatable phase of male hormonal transition.


Next Steps:


• Take the Manopause Symptom Quiz manopausehelp@gmail.com

• Track your energy, mood, and sleep for 7 days

• Download the full Manopause Lifestyle Journal

• Speak with your GP or a men’s health specialist

• Consider attending a Manopause Workshop


Stay Connected


Find books, journals, and symptom checklists see links below 

Subscribe for updates: manopausehelp@gmail.com

Book a workshop or 1:1 coaching: manopausehelp@gmail.com


Journaling for Manopause: Clarity and confidence, while navigating the next chapter of life, by A McIlwraith | 20 November 2024

Mental Health and Mindfulness for Men, by A McIlwraith | 15 November 2024

Fatherhood and Legacy Building: A Father's Guide to Impactful Parenting, 

by A McIlwraith | 14 November 2024

The Next Chapter”: The Aging Man, A New Lease of Life; A Guide for Men “Rediscovering Purpose, Health, and Growth in Midlife”

by A M McIlwraith | 6 November 2024

Manopause: Mid-Life Crisis, Male Menopause & Andropause

by Anne Marie McIlwraith | 1 April 2024

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This article represents the personal opinions and perspectives of the author and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the Catholic Open University Research & Study Center. Authors are given the academic freedom to share their insights and expertise in order to promote dialogue and the dissemination of knowledge within their respective fields.

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