When you hear the word testosterone, chances are you think of men. Low testosterone, often referred to as low T, can lead to symptoms such as decreased energy, reduced libido, and diminished muscle mass.
However, what many people don’t realize is that women also produce testosterone, albeit in smaller amounts. And, this hormone is vital for their overall health and well-being.
Despite its significance, low testosterone in women remains under-discussed. Yet, by addressing it, women can benefit. This is especially true when both partners manage their hormone health together.
Understanding Testosterone in Women
Women’s bodies generate testosterone primarily in the ovaries and adrenal glands. This hormone helps support a range of functions, including:
- Maintaining bone density
- Regulating muscle mass
- Boosting energy and mood
- Enhancing sex drive (libido)
Research shows that women’s testosterone levels peak in their late 20s. They then decline with age, becoming even lower after menopause or if the ovaries are removed. Along with this, even small dips in testosterone can impact overall wellness.
Signs of Low Testosterone in Women
Similarly to men, women with low testosterone may experience symptoms, including:
- Feeling run down or fatigued
- Reduced sex drive
- Irritability and mood swings
- Muscle weakness
- Potential bone loss
Diagnosing low T in women can be tricky because symptoms might overlap with other hormone or health issues. Often, doctors will order blood tests to check estrogen, progesterone, thyroid hormones, and testosterone levels simultaneously.
What Causes Low Testosterone In Women?
Several factors can cause a dip in women’s testosterone production. While the natural drops in hormones that happen with age or after ovary removal are most common, other reasons include:
- Genetic conditions like Turner syndrome
- A pituitary gland tumor or too much of the hormone prolactin
- Ovarian or adrenal gland insufficiency
- Medical treatments like chemotherapy or radiation
- Hitting menopause before you turn 40
- Extreme stress, rapid weight loss, or intense exercise
- Undernourishment or conditions like anorexia
- Medications such as corticosteroids, hormonal therapy, or opioids
Why Consider Treatment?
There’s growing interest in testosterone’s benefits for women with low levels. Many clinicians and patients report meaningful improvements when therapy is carefully monitored.
Potential advantages can include:
- Improved energy and vitality
- Increased libido
- Better mood regulation
- Support for muscle and bone strength, particularly important after menopause
The Couple’s Approach
If a male partner is already being treated for low T, it can create an imbalance in energy, mood, or libido if the female partner also has unaddressed hormonal issues. When both partners work together on hormone health:
- Sex drives align.
- Teamwork and relationship-building are fostered.
- It raises a sense of lifestyle balance and mutual understanding.
How to Treat Low Testosterone In Females
The two most common methods for boosting testosterone in females are injections and topical creams.
1. Injections
Testosterone can be administered through intramuscular or subcutaneous injections. This approach delivers a reliable dose. But, it may require clinic visits or self-injection. You may also experience slight peaks and troughs between doses.
2. Topical creams
Applied to the skin, often the abdomen or thighs, a topical method allows gradual absorption. It’s crucial to avoid transferring the cream to others, especially children and pets. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly and wait for the application site to dry before interacting with others.
Determining how to treat low testosterone in females requires a close partnership with an experienced physician. Whichever administration method you choose, it’s important to have regular checkups to ensure testosterone levels remain within a safe range. Your doctor can also help you watch for side effects.
Partner with a Urologist for Female Testosterone Replacement
Addressing hormonal issues as a couple can improve intimacy and understanding. It can also lead to a healthier lifestyle.
If you’re ready to get started, our knowledgeable urologists can offer personalized recommendations for women as individuals or couples. They can also closely monitor your therapy.
Learn more about how to treat low testosterone in females—call 843.347.2450 to schedule an appointment today!