Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Aug 14: Mood swings, irritability and changes in behaviour are often associated with the days leading up to menstruation in women. However, men can also experience mood changes linked to hormonal fluctuations, although they do not have a menstrual cycle or periods.

Unlike women, men do not undergo a 28-day reproductive cycle or shed the lining of the uterus. However, testosterone levels in men fluctuate naturally and can influence energy, mood and overall well-being.

Testosterone, the primary male sex hormone, follows a daily pattern rather than a monthly cycle. Levels generally peak in the morning, particularly between 7 am and 10 am, before gradually declining towards the evening.

This fluctuation is linked to the body's circadian rhythm, which regulates several biological processes. Experts note that the morning rise in testosterone tends to become less pronounced with age.

Although these hormonal changes can influence mood and energy, experts say they are not significant or predictable enough to be classified as a 'male period'.

The term 'male irritable syndrome' is sometimes used to describe irritability, mood swings and other behavioural changes that may occur alongside hormonal fluctuations in men. However, it is not recognised as a standard medical diagnosis.

Testosterone levels generally decline with age, and various factors, including stress, lack of sleep, illness, depression, smoking and alcohol consumption, can also affect hormone levels and mood.

A substantial fall in testosterone may be accompanied by symptoms such as low energy, irritability and changes in emotional well-being.

While high testosterone is often popularly associated with aggression or anger, low testosterone levels can also contribute to mood changes and increased irritability in some men.

Therefore, although men experience hormonal fluctuations, comparing them directly to the menstrual cycle is inaccurate. Persistent mood changes, fatigue or other unexplained symptoms should be medically evaluated rather than automatically attributed to hormonal changes.