Low Testosterone in Women : Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Many people tend to associate the word "testosterone" with men automatically. This is because testosterone is often viewed as a hormone that is exclusive to men. However, it is worth noting that women also need testosterone in their bodies, while men have oestrogen in theirs. The only difference between the two is the ratio in which they are present. As a woman, you will naturally have lower testosterone levels than men, but that doesn't mean it's not an important hormone for your body to function properly. Too little or too much testosterone can affect your overall health and impact the levels of other sex hormones in your body. . If the testosterone levels drop, it can lead to negative effects on her reproductive health and general well being. At this time, there are no conclusive guidelines for what should be considered “low” testosterone levels in females.A female’s testosterone levels fluctuate throughout life, the menstrual cycle, and at different times of the day.

Dr. Haritha Mannem, Senior Consultant Delhi, Indirapuram and Greater Noida

Mar 21, 2024

Low Testosterone in Women Symptoms Causes and Treatment (1)

What Causes Low Testosterone in Women?

Testosterone is produced largely by a woman’s ovaries and to certain extent by adrenal glands and fat tissue. So, most causes of low testosterone in women stem from ovaries. Getting older (entering menopause) is one of the largest causes of low testosterone. By the time a person reaches menopause, their testosterone levels may have decreased by half of what they once were. Other causes can be

Recently underwent surgery to remove your ovaries or chemotherapy or radiotherapy
Underdeveloped ovaries
A tumor on the hormone-producing glands
malnutrition
hyperprolactinemia
Using hormonal birth control pills
Using antiandrogen medications
Taking medicines like corticosteroids , opioids
Some people may also have something in their genetic makeup (their DNA) that interferes with their body’s ability to produce or process testosterone.

Symptoms of Low Testosterone in Women

It’s important to understand the symptoms of low testosterone and keep an eye on them. Here are the main symptoms of low testosterone in women that you should look out for

Weakness ,
Lack of energy
Trouble getting pregnant
Irregular periods
Depression
Dry brittle skin
Hair thinning
Dryness in vagina
Reduced sexual desire
Affected sexual satisfaction
Anxiety or stress
sleep disorders
decreased bone density

Similar to this condition, your hormone levels can also increase. If you have high Testosterone and you are a woman, you may develop male features. This can include facial hair and a hoarse voice.

Treatment of Low Testosterone in Women

Because testosterone levels fluctuate so much, it can be challenging to diagnose low levels. They undergo testing using a straightforward blood test. You should obtain a blood test if you have any of these symptoms. Doctors recommend that you have a blood test 8–20 days after the start of your menstruation. After seeing a doctor, you can make an appointment with the closest laboratory to complete this test.

Unfortunately, the research on the treatment of low testosterone in women is not extensive enough. There is no fixed treatment for this issue. Depending on your age and testosterone level, the doctors will treat you with testosterone supplements in various forms like Injections,

Pellets.
Creams.
Patches.
Gels.
Pills/capsules.

Medicines used to improve testosterone levels should not be consumed by pregnant or breastfeeding women. There is a risk that they could transfer it to their child, which may not be healthy.

Doctors do not recommend Testosterone therapy to women due to its side effects and the lack of research on this topic. The products used for this issue, like gels and creams, have not been approved specifically for women. They are targeted towards men, who need a much higher level of Testosterone.You should discuss the risks of each treatment method with your healthcare provider before deciding.

A doctor may also recommend alternative therapies to treat the symptoms of low testosterone in females. These treatments and lifestyle strategies can include:

sex therapy
taking steps to manage stress
getting enough sleep
eating a balanced diet

Conclusion

Your general well-being and reproductive health may be impacted by low testosterone. You ought to be aware of the signs of this problem and the remedies for it. Ignoring these signs can negatively affect your relationships, career, and mental health. This hormone problem also causes anxiety and despair. See your physician right away if you have any of the low testosterone symptoms.