Women tend to overlook the possibility of having low testosterone despite experiencing common symptoms. Feeling tired, lacking desire, and experiencing declining mental health can have a significant impact on their well-being. However, it is uncommon for women to associate these problems with a deficiency in testosterone.
As a result, the condition often goes undiagnosed, leading to worsening symptoms. To remedy this situation, the ‘male hormone’ effects on the female body must be better understood. In this article, we take a comprehensive look at low testosterone in women, including methods for recognizing and treating it.
Low Testosterone In Women: How Does It Harm Your Health?
Low testosterone levels in women can have consequences for their health. While testosterone is commonly associated with men, it also plays a role in women’s well-being. Insufficient testosterone can result in feelings of fatigue, decreased desire, changes in mood, and a decrease in muscle mass. It can also contribute to a loss of bone density and increase the likelihood of osteoporosis.
Hormonal imbalances caused by low testosterone can affect fertility and menstrual cycles. It is essential to seek medical advice to address these issues and explore options for hormone replacement therapy, which can help restore hormonal balance and improve overall health and quality of life.
What Are The Most Important Hormones For Women In General?
Crucial hormones—estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone—significantly impact women’s health. Oestrogen, primarily produced by the ovaries, regulates the menstrual cycle, maintains strong bones, and aids in reproductive development.
Progesterone helps maintain pregnancy and regulates menstruation. Testosterone, although lower in women than in men, affects mood, energy, and libido. Hormonal balance is critical to a woman’s overall well-being, affecting fertility and mood stability.
What Is The Role Of Estrogens?
Estrogens play a role in women’s well-being as a group of hormones. These hormones are primarily produced in the ovaries. Serve various essential purposes. Estrogen helps regulate the cycle, aids in breast development, and is crucial in maintaining strong bones and reducing the chances of osteoporosis. It also influences mood, skin elasticity, and vaginal health. Moreover, estrogens contribute to health by governing ovulation and promoting the growth of the uterine lining for a potential pregnancy.
What Exactly Is Testosterone?
Compared to other sex hormones, testosterone is a potent androgen hormone typically associated with males. As this primary sex hormone surges during the onset of male puberty, it triggers the development of distinctive male characteristics, including:
- Growth of facial hair
- Broader shoulders
- Increased muscle mass
- Increased libido
- Increased sexual appetite
The main source of testosterone production in men is the testes. In women, testosterone is produced in the ovaries and adrenal glands.
What Is The Role Of Testosterone In Women?
While testosterone is mainly known as the hormone associated with male characteristics, it also holds significance in women’s health. Generally, women have lower levels of testosterone, ranging from 15 to 70 ng/dL on average. These levels amount to 1/20 to 1/40 of what is typically found in men. Nevertheless, the lower amounts of testosterone in women should not undermine its relevance. In women, testosterone plays a role in aspects such as:
- Increased sexual desire
- Increased libido
- Bone health support
- Muscle mass support
- Mood regulation
- Maintain energy levels
- Influence menstrual cycle and fertility
It is clear that maintaining appropriate levels of testosterone, along with other hormones, is crucial. The balance between testosterone and other hormones is crucial to a woman’s well-being. Whether too low or too high, imbalances can lead to significant health problems. In summary, testosterone is a compound that brings vitality, youthfulness, energy, and improved mental well-being to both men and women, underlining its importance in our lives.
Signs Of Low Testosterone In Women
Low levels of testosterone in women are a matter of concern that can impact individuals across age groups ranging from post-menopausal women to young and active adults. Like men, it usually takes some time for symptoms of low testosterone to become noticeable in women, and these symptoms tend to worsen and become more common as time goes on. Some common signs of testosterone in women are:
- Reduced sexual desire and satisfaction (difficulty reaching orgasm)
- Feelings of anxiety or depression
- Increased emotional sensitivity
- Physical tiredness
- Weakened bones
- Joint pain
- Cognitive changes
- Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
- Dry skin and thinning hair
- Weight gain
- Loss of muscle mass
- A feeling of decreased motivation
Unfortunately, many of these symptoms can be attributed to factors such as poor sleep or increased stress, so many men are unaware that low testosterone levels may be contributing to their health problems.
What Are The Consequences Of Low Testosterone In Females?
From what I’ve observed through conversations with friends who have dealt with low testosterone levels and stories I’ve come across on platforms like Reddit and online forums, it seems that a decrease in testosterone among women can result in a deterioration of symptoms and, ultimately, a decline in overall well-being. Many women have mentioned experiencing an indication of not feeling like their usual selves. This sensation is akin to depression. Leads to a loss of interest in once-pleasurable activities.
In addition, this initial change is often accompanied by a deterioration in sleep patterns, exacerbating other related problems. Subsequently, women may experience a decrease in libido, which is currently the only symptom for which exogenous testosterone can be prescribed. Finally, there are physical manifestations to consider. These may include increased muscle soreness or prolonged recovery periods after exercise, eventually leading to muscle weakness and possible loss of muscle mass.
It’s crucial to understand that the experience of testosterone can differ for each woman in terms of symptoms and how severe they are. As mentioned earlier, when women have levels of testosterone, it usually results in a decreased quality of life since testosterone plays a vital role in regulating different aspects of our overall well-being and sense of self.
How To Treat Low Testosterone In Women
Fortunately, there are several ways that women can boost their testosterone levels, from simple lifestyle changes to taking specific supplements.
- Improve sleep quality: Insufficient sleep is a major contributor to low testosterone in women because it disrupts several physiological systems, including the adrenal glands. As mentioned above, the adrenal glands and testosterone production are closely linked. The solution is relatively simple – get 7-8 hours of restful sleep every night.
- Get regular exercise: Exercise is one of the most effective ways to maintain healthy hormone levels. However, including resistance training in your routine is important, as excessive cardio exercise can increase cortisol levels. Find an appropriate exercise plan for women and stick to it.
- Eat a nutritious diet: It is well known that consuming processed foods and added sugars can be detrimental to health and lead to obesity and weight gain, with all the associated risks. An unhealthy diet can also contribute to low testosterone levels in women. Studies have shown a link between diets high in processed foods and added sugars and low testosterone. Therefore, eating a healthy, balanced diet is one of the most effective ways to combat low testosterone.
- Increase your zinc intake: Although the body only needs a small amount of zinc, this trace mineral plays an important role. Among other things, zinc is essential for testosterone production. Research has shown that women with inadequate zinc levels may have low testosterone levels and that zinc supplementation may be beneficial. In fact, the importance of zinc in boosting testosterone is highlighted in our list of the best supplements to boost testosterone naturally.
- Consider ashwagandha & liquorice root: Both ashwagandha and liquorice root effectively treat adrenal fatigue and androgen deficiency. Ashwagandha, in particular, has received scientific support and has been shown to improve testosterone levels independently.
- Explore testosterone boosters: Another option to consider is the use of a testosterone booster – a supplement that can be incorporated into your daily routine to increase testosterone levels.
What Are Testosterone Boosters?
Testosterone boosters are supplements containing ingredients like herbs, plants, vitamins, and minerals. They are formulated to enhance testosterone levels in the body. The effectiveness of a testosterone booster varies based on its components. However, many boosters, including vitamin D, zinc, and magnesium, aim to address potential deficiencies in these vital nutrients.
It is essential to clarify that testosterone boosters are different from testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).TRT involves the administration of synthetic testosterone by injection or other means and requires close medical supervision. Therefore, if you suspect low testosterone and are considering TRT, you must consult a healthcare professional. For those seeking a more personalized and supervised approach, TRT clinics or online testosterone therapy are valuable options.
In this era of technology, accessing clinics has become easier, especially with the availability of numerous online TRT clinics. If you’re looking for a suggestion for a TRT clinic, I would highly recommend Fountain TRT. They provide a personalized evaluation for TRT that includes a testosterone test and a one-on-one video consultation with a Fountain provider to discuss the results of your test.
What Are The Most Effective Testosterone Supplements For Women?
Women must select supplements that aid in maintaining hormone equilibrium while avoiding any adverse outcomes. Some popular choices include fenugreek, ashwagandha, and DHEA supplements. However, it’s essential to consult a healthcare expert before commencing any routine to guarantee its safety and suitability for one’s specific requirements.
As A Woman, How Can I Increase My Testosterone Levels Naturally?
Boosting testosterone levels naturally in women involves several lifestyle changes. Prioritise strength training, such as weightlifting or resistance training, to stimulate muscle growth and increase testosterone production. A balanced diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and various nutrients can also play a key role.
Include lean meats, nuts, and leafy greens in your diet while limiting your intake of sugary and processed foods. Maintaining body weight and managing stress through meditation or yoga is essential, as these can help promote hormonal balance. Additionally, getting sleep and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption play crucial roles in maintaining optimal testosterone levels for overall well-being.
How Will My Testosterone Levels Change During Menopause?
A woman’s testosterone levels typically change significantly during the menopause. In the years leading up to menopause, known as perimenopause, there is often a gradual decline in testosterone production, which can lead to symptoms such as reduced libido, fatigue, and mood swings. However, some women may experience a more dramatic drop in testosterone levels, making these symptoms worse.
After going through menopause, when estrogen levels are still low, some women may experience a slight increase in testosterone production. This can potentially lead to an improvement in desire and overall well-being. It’s worth noting that these hormonal changes differ from one person to another, and seeking guidance from a healthcare professional can assist in managing any related symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do women really have low testosterone levels?
Of course, they do! Although testosterone is commonly associated with men, women also produce and need testosterone, albeit in smaller amounts. The occurrence of low testosterone in women can be attributed to several factors.
What are the signs of low testosterone in women?
Some common indications of this condition include feeling tired all the time, experiencing a decrease in desire, having mood swings, and feeling physically weak. Additionally, it can impact bone strength and overall well-being.
What causes low testosterone in women?
Contributing factors may include the aging process, medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), stress, and hormonal imbalances. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
Is it possible to effectively treat low testosterone in women over the long term?
With the support and regular check-ins, numerous women can successfully handle low testosterone levels and keep their hormones in balance.
Are there any natural ways to increase testosterone levels in women?
In fact, regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress management, and adequate sleep can all help to naturally optimize testosterone levels.
The Bottom Line
Low testosterone levels in women are frequently disregarded, which can be detrimental to individuals. Recognizing the symptoms associated with this condition helps us understand how it greatly affects our well-being. If you have been experiencing these symptoms without determining the cause, scheduling an appointment with your healthcare provider or seeking guidance from an online TRT clinic would be wise. They can conduct a blood test to evaluate your testosterone levels and provide appropriate recommendations.
Even without a blood test, you can take proactive steps today to address low testosterone. Regular exercise, prioritizing adequate sleep, and eating a balanced and nutritious diet can all contribute to your overall well-being and vitality.
Sources
- Olson BR. “Compounded Testosterone Preparations Raise Testosterone Levels to Premenopausal Ranges in Postmenopausal Women With Hypo-Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD).” Journal of the Endocrine Society, 2020. Read more
- Davis, S. R., & Wahlin-Jacobsen, S. “Testosterone in women–the clinical significance.” The Lancet. Diabetes & Endocrinology, 2015. Read more
- Elizabeth Barrett-Connor and others. “The Association of Testosterone Levels with Overall Sleep Quality, Sleep Architecture, and Sleep-Disordered Breathing.” The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, Volume 93, Issue 7, 1 July 2008. Read more
- Chen, L., Xie, YM., Pei, JH. et al. “Sugar-sweetened beverage intake and serum testosterone levels in adult males 20–39 years old in the United States.” Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology. Read more
- Mazaheri Nia, L., Iravani, M., Abedi, P., & Cheraghian, B. “Effect of Zinc on Testosterone Levels and Sexual Function of Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy. Read more
- Kalani, A., Bahtiyar, G., & Sacerdote, A. “Ashwagandha root in the treatment of non-classical adrenal hyperplasia.” BMJ Case Reports, 2012. Read more
Mark Willson, holding a Ph.D., functions as a psychotherapist in Washington, D.C. His specialized fields encompass addiction, anxiety, depression, as well as sexuality and interpersonal connections. Dr. Willson holds the distinction of being a diplomat for the American Board of Addiction and Anxiety, further serving as a certified counselor and addiction specialist.
Aside from his personal professional endeavors, Dr. Wilson has engaged in roles as an author, journalist, and creator within substantial medical documentary projects.
Isabella Clark, Ph.D., held the position of a professor within Emory University’s School of Medicine, working in the Department of Mental Health and Nutrition Science. Alongside this role, she served as a research associate affiliated with the National Research Center. Dr. Clark’s primary area of research centers on comprehending the mechanisms through which adverse social encounters, encompassing prolonged stress and traumatic exposure, contribute to a spectrum of detrimental mental health consequences and coexisting physical ailments like obesity. Her specific focus lies in unraveling the reasons behind the varying elevated susceptibility to stress-linked disorders between different genders.
