Final answer:
A midlife change in hormone levels is referred to as menopause in women and andropause in men. These changes involve a decrease in estrogen and progesterone in women, and a decrease in testosterone in men, leading to various physical and emotional symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Midlife Hormonal Changes
The term that refers to a midlife change in hormone levels for women is menopause, which is characterized by the decline of ovarian function, leading to a decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels. For men, a similar process called andropause, or male menopause, is identified by a reduction in testosterone levels beginning around 40 to 50 years of age.
Women typically experience menopause around 50 years old, with symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and changes in menstrual cycles, signaling the onset of the menopausal transition or peri-menopause. Men undergoing andropause may experience fatigue, reduced muscle mass, depression, and sexual dysfunction.
Patients experiencing symptoms related to hormonal changes may opt for hormone replacement therapy, consulting with an endocrinologist to weigh the risks and benefits. Conditions associated with low hormone levels, like osteoporosis, atherosclerosis, and hyperlipidemia, can be a part of the aging process.