Testosterone Deficiency In Women
By Dr Hazel Batten, Integrative GP at Remede Wellness Medicine
When we think of testosterone, we often associate it with men’s health—but did you know that women also need this vital hormone? While oestrogen and progesterone typically take centre stage in discussions about female hormones, testosterone plays a crucial role in energy levels, mood, muscle strength, and even libido. However, many women experience testosterone deficiency without even realising it, often attributing to symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and low motivation to ageing or stress.
What is the function of testosterone in the female body?
- Bone health
- Muscle mass and strength
- Energy levels
- Sexual desire
- Improve sexual arousal and pleasure
- Brain function
- Improved mood
- Reduced anxiety
- Improve sleep
- Weight and metabolic health
Where does testosterone it come from?
As much as 75% of our testosterone is made in our adrenal glands. Half of testosterone is produced from a precursor hormone called DHEA. 25% of testosterone is made in the ovaries. The adrenals and ovaries can keep on making testosterone well beyond the menopause, but levels will slowly decline with age.
Why might I have low testosterone?
Testosterone fluctuates throughout the menstrual cycle. It is highest around ovulation (mid-cycle) and throughout the luteal phase. The main reasons I see testosterone deficiency in clinic include:
- Stress; which can affect adrenal output. This can happen at any age.
- Endogenous suppression (e.g from the oral contraceptive pill).
- Surgical removal of the ovaries.
- Ageing; with time the adrenals and the ovaries will decrease in size and decrease their production of the hormones.
What investigations do I require?
If you are concerned it is important to get your levels checked. A blood test can check total testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin and free testosterone. This is a good start. I usually also review what’s going on with the other hormones as testosterone is often given in conjunction with other hormones such as oestradiol and progesterone to enhance its effectiveness.
What is available in Australia?
We have one product on the market called AndroFeme® cream, which can be applied to the skin daily to increase levels. Levels must then be checked within 8 weeks following the start of use to check that therapeutic levels have been met. It can be easy for levels to go too high, which can cause a myriad of other side-effects.
It is also important to work on lifestyle factors such a good quality sleep, reducing stress, strength training and focussing on healthy nutrition.