For years, testosterone has been associated primarily with men, but a growing number of postmenopausal women are now turning to this hormone as a potential solution for low libido, fatigue, and mood changes.
Dr. Risa Kagan, a gynecologist in Berkeley, California, recalls how few women were open to the idea of testosterone therapy just five years ago.
«Patients used to be skeptical. They worried about developing facial hair or a deeper voice. Now, everyone is asking for it.»
The surge in interest is largely fueled by social media influencers, menopause advocates, and even celebrity endorsements, such as Kate Winslet, who credited testosterone for making her «feel sexy again.»
But as testosterone therapy gains mainstream attention, misconceptions about its effects on mood, cognition, and overall health are also spreading.
So, what does scientific research actually say about testosterone for women?
Why Do Women Need Testosterone?
Testosterone is commonly known as a male hormone, but women also produce it, primarily in the ovaries and adrenal glands. It plays a critical role in reproductive health, but researchers believe it may also affect the brain, muscles, bones, and heart.
How Does Testosterone Change Over Time?
- Peak Levels: Women experience their highest levels of testosterone in their 20s.
- Gradual Decline: Levels slowly decrease with age, dropping significantly after menopause.
- Late-Life Increase: Research suggests that testosterone levels may rise again in women over 70, possibly contributing to longevity benefits.
However, not all women experience a decrease in libido with lower testosterone levels, suggesting that other factors like emotional well-being, relationship satisfaction, and mental health play significant roles.
Can Testosterone Therapy Improve Libido and Well-Being?
Studies show that low-dose testosterone therapy can benefit some postmenopausal women with low libido, improving:
✔ Sexual desire
✔ Arousal and orgasm frequency
✔ Overall sexual satisfaction
However, effects are often subtle rather than dramatic. Lauren Streicher, a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University, explains:
«Testosterone can provide a boost, but libido is complex. Many women benefit more when therapy is combined with sex counseling.»
While many women report feeling more energized, focused, and confident, scientific research has not definitively proven that testosterone improves:
❌ Mood or mental health
❌ Cognitive function
❌ Muscle strength or heart health
Some studies even show that women taking a placebo report similar improvements, suggesting that feeling validated and heard about health concerns may play a crucial role in perceived benefits.
How Is Testosterone Therapy Taken?
The safest and most common method for women is a low-dose testosterone gel, applied to the thighs or calves.
However, testosterone therapy is not FDA-approved for women in the U.S., meaning:
- Women must use male-formulated testosterone gels and carefully adjust their doses.
- Compounded formulations are available but may lack consistency in dosage.
- Some women import testosterone gel from Australia, where it is approved for female use.
Most insurance plans do not cover testosterone therapy for women, with monthly costs starting at $10 or more.
Potential Risks of Testosterone Therapy
When used at low doses, side effects are rare. However, high or prolonged doses can cause:
🚨 Facial hair growth
🚨 Acne and oily skin
🚨 Voice deepening (may be irreversible)
🚨 Clitoral enlargement
🚨 Irritability or aggression
Excess testosterone may also convert into estrogen, increasing the risk of:
🚨 Uterine lining thickening
🚨 Vaginal bleeding
🚨 Endometrial cancer
Why Experts Warn Against «Pellet» Injections
One of the most concerning trends in hormone therapy is the use of testosterone «pellets». These small implants, inserted under the skin, release high doses of testosterone over time.
While marketed as a long-lasting and convenient option, many women experience severe side effects, including:
- Excessively high testosterone levels
- Irritability and aggression
- Permanent voice deepening
«Once the pellet is inserted, you cannot remove it,» warns Dr. James Simon, an expert in menopausal medicine. «Women are stuck dealing with side effects for months.»
Should Women Consider Testosterone Therapy?
Testosterone therapy can help some women with low libido, but it is not a miracle drug for mood, energy, or overall well-being.
Women considering testosterone should:
✅ Consult a doctor to discuss risks and benefits.
✅ Use low-dose gels instead of high-risk pellet injections.
✅ Combine therapy with counseling for long-term sexual health improvements.As more scientific research emerges, it will become clearer whether testosterone truly benefits women’s health beyond sexual function. Until then, careful, informed decision-making remains essential.
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