Dr. Jennifer Berman – Sexual Health Expert in Los Angeles

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Testosterone for Women

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Hormones are chemical messengers that are essential for the precise and flawless functioning of the body. They also strengthen bones, muscles, improve brain function and allow for a healthy and potent sex life. Nearly every biological process in the human body involves hormones, including the sexual function, growth, metabolism, weight control, blood pressures, and immune function of the individual. Estrogen plays an essential role in regulating memory, mood, sexual function, bone density and relief from common symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. Hormones and hormonal imbalance can have a significant impact a person’s mood, cognitive ability, short term memory and overall health of the brain.

Hormonal imbalance, due to drops in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone occur when women enter perimenopause and/or menopause. During perimenopause and menopause, the production of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone production by the ovaries becomes irregular and eventually stops. Estrogen levels dropping can cause mood swings, anxiety, memory loss, and difficulty falling and/or staying asleep. It can cause weight gain, vaginal dryness and urinary frequency and urgency.

What is Testosterone?

Testosterone is a fundamental hormone that is equally important for women as men. Testosterone plays an integral role in regulating your energy, lean muscle mass, and libido. It also helps to maintain bone density, fat distribution, muscle mass, muscle strength, sleep, and your physical energy levels. Women produce testosterone, just like men, but in smaller amounts. A drop in testosterone levels in women can lead these symptoms:

  • Low sex drive
  • Depression and/or anxiety
  • Fatigue
  • Inability to focus or concentrate.
  • Decline in memory and cognitive skills
  • Decreased muscle mass and strength
  • Sagging Skin
  • Insomnia
  • Increased abdominal fat
  • Psychological symptoms (mood swings, anxiety, lack of vitality and insomnia)

What Causes Low Testosterone in Women?

Low testosterone levels can have a detrimental impact on overall health and bodily functions in both men and women. Testosterone levels continually change as women age and fluctuate during the menstrual cycle. However, as women age, testosterone levels significantly drop. Other common causes of low testosterone in women include:

  • Long-term use of oral birth control pills and contraceptive patches.
  • Pre-mature Ovarian failure
  • Chemotherapy, radiation treatment, and eating disorders.
  • Medications like anti-hypertensives and opiates.
  • Tumors
  • Hysterectomy
  • Adrenal insufficiency
  • Aging
  • Peri-menopause and menopause

What Are the Symptoms of Low Testosterone in Women?

Contrary to popular belief, low testosterone levels impact women as well. A drop in testosterone can cause health issues and emotional distress. Low testosterone levels in women is associated with the following symptoms:

  • Hair loss
  • Thinning and dry skin
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Overall decrease in muscle strength
  • Reduced muscle tone.
  • Weight gain, especially around the middle
  • Problems with fertility
  • Menstrual cycle irregularity
  • Loss of bone density
  • Fatigue for no obvious reason
  • Less interest in sex and intimacy
  • Mood changes, including feeling depressed or anxious
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Loss of “pep” or overall motivation

However, it is important to note that other conditions, associated with ageing and menopause, can also cause these symptoms and also need to be evaluated and addressed. These include hypothyroidism, iron deficiency, and depression.

Testosterone Therapy in Women

Hormones are produced in the endocrine glands which release these hormones into the bloodstream, allowing them to be transported throughout the body. Hormones control and influence various bodily functions including metabolism, reproduction, growth and sexual function.

Bio-identical hormones are natural and identical to the hormones your body produces, which allows for easier absorption.

What are the Potential Benefits of Testosterone Therapy for Women?

Hormone therapy can be required for different reasons as an imbalance of the hormones can cause unpleasant symptoms. Common causes that require hormone treatment can include aging and major life changes like menopause. BHRT reduces these symptoms and allows for a better, healthier lifestyle. BHRT can improve:

  • Weight gain
  • Mood swings
  • Hot flashes
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Night sweats
  • Low energy levels
  • Memory loss
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Decreased interest in sex‌

Are There Any Other Options for Treating Reduced Sex Drive in Women?

There are various treatments options available for women with low testosterone levels and reduced sex drive. These treatments must be delivered by a medical provider who can properly evaluate, dose, and treat each patient’s individual needs.

Every woman is unique, and the treatments needs can vary. For this reason, a formal consultation is important before any hormonal treatment is initiated. The symptoms need to be properly identified and assessed to ensure proper delivery and dosing. For the appropriate patient, Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement therapy is safe, effective, and improves overall health and well-being. Achieving hormone balance improves general health, sexual health, promotes longevity and helps to prevent diseases such as Alzheimer’s, colon cancer, and bone demineralization.

FAQs:

What are the Risks and Limitations of Testosterone Therapy for Women?

There are various types of testosterone therapy available for women, but it is extremely important to consult with an expert in this area. Getting a consultation and diagnosis before attempting any type of treatment is required to optimize the benefits and minimize risks.

Who is Eligible for Testosterone Therapy?

The only way to find out whether you are eligible for testosterone therapy is to consult with your provider. Our proper diagnosis, based on your age, labs, risk factors, and lab results is required to correctly diagnose and treat.

Is Testosterone Therapy Approved by the FDA for Women?

It is important to note that great care must be taken when taking testosterone as an imbalance can cause various side effects that are detrimental for the body. The FDA has not approved testosterone for use in women. For this reason, it should only be provided and used under the direct care of a medical provider.

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