Testosterone Therapy for Women: A Critical Hormone for Energy, Libido, and Wellbeing
While testosterone is typically associated with men’s health, it also plays a critical role in the wellbeing of women. Produced in the ovaries and adrenal glands, testosterone contributes to libido, energy, muscle mass, bone density, and mood regulation. For many women, especially those approaching menopause or who have undergone surgical oophorectomy, testosterone levels decline significantly which leads to a constellation of symptoms that can be addressed with carefully monitored hormone replacement therapy.
The Role of Testosterone in Women
Although women produce much less testosterone than men, it remains essential to multiple systems. Testosterone supports:
- Sexual function, including desire, arousal, and orgasmic response
- Cognitive health, influencing memory, verbal fluency, and mental clarity
- Mood stability, including resilience to stress and reduced risk of depression
- Musculoskeletal integrity, helping maintain lean muscle mass and prevent osteoporosis
- Metabolic function, assisting in fat metabolism and insulin sensitivity
- Connective tissue production in tendons and ligaments
Women with low testosterone may experience fatigue, low libido, poor concentration, depressed mood, and loss of muscle tone.
Who Might Benefit from Testosterone Therapy?
Testosterone therapy is considered for women with clinical symptoms of androgen deficiency and confirmed low levels on lab testing. Common candidates include:
- Perimenopausal or menopausal women experiencing sexual dysfunction or low vitality
- Women with premature ovarian insufficiency or early surgical menopause
- Patients with chronic stress or adrenal dysfunction leading to androgen depletion
- Athletic women experiencing muscle loss, slow recovery, or overtraining symptoms
It is important to rule out other causes of fatigue, low mood, or sexual dysfunction before initiating testosterone therapy.
At the Performance Medicine Institute, we use personalized formulations to target safe physiological ranges and minimize adverse effects.
Benefits of Therapy
When properly dosed and monitored, testosterone therapy can lead to:
- Improved libido and sexual satisfaction
- Increased energy and stamina
- Reduced depressive symptoms and anxiety
- Enhanced muscle tone and fat loss
- Sharper focus and mental performance
Monitoring and Safety Considerations
Monitoring is essential to avoid overtreatment. We track labs closely. Side effects such as acne, oily skin, hair growth, voice changes, and mood changes are rare at physiological doses but can occur with supraphysiologic levels. Long-term data suggest that properly managed testosterone therapy does not increase the risk of breast cancer or cardiovascular disease and may in fact support overall metabolic and bone health.
Testosterone and Sexual Health
For women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), testosterone therapy has shown efficacy in restoring sexual interest, especially when estrogen alone is insufficient. It can also reduce pelvic floor discomfort and enhance vaginal lubrication indirectly by improving tissue tone and circulation.
Conclusion
Testosterone is a vital hormone for women’s health, not just a "male" hormone. Thoughtfully prescribed therapy can restore vitality, strength, and sexual health in women experiencing age-related or surgical hormonal decline. Interested in learning if testosterone therapy is right for you? Contact Us
References
Davis, S. R., et al. (2020). Global consensus position statement on the use of testosterone therapy for women. Climacteric, 23(5), 421–426.
Braunstein, G. D. (2007). Safety of testosterone therapy in women: implications for clinical practice. Fertility and Sterility, 88(1), 1–17.
Goldstat, R., et al. (2003). Transdermal testosterone therapy improves well-being, mood, and sexual function in premenopausal women. Menopause, 10(5), 390–398.
Wierman, M. E., et al. (2014). Androgen therapy in women: a reappraisal. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 99(10), 3489–3510.