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What is testosterone therapy? -

Testosterone therapy, or TRT, is a treatment to help supplement low testosterone levels in the body. Many FDA-approved options for men exist, but none are officially approved for women.

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The role of testosterone in the female body -

Testosterone in women is produced naturally in the ovaries and adrenal glands. It helps regulate desire, maintains muscle and bone strength, and supports cognitive health.

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Declining testosterone levels with age -

At around age 30, testosterone levels begin to decline and can continue to drop gradually. When you reach mid-life, levels might be as low as 25% of what they used to be when you were younger.

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Understanding testosterone deficiency in women -

Low testosterone can cause fatigue, depression, decreased libido, cognitive difficulties, and muscle loss.

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FDA and off-label use of testosterone for women -

Though testosterone therapy for women has never been officially approved by the FDA, it is still prescribed off-label. Doctors and medical professionals often work with compounding pharmacies to create doses that are lower in strength and therefore more suitable for female patients.

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Testosterone and menopause -

When a woman is experiencing menopause, her estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels will decline which can lead to mood swings, weight gain, and low libido. Some studies show that if testosterone therapy is combined with estrogen, it might help improve overall well-being.

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How testosterone therapy works -

TRT can be completed through oral tablets, gels, or injected pellets. Some doctors prefer creams or gels so they can better control the dosage.

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Determining eligibility for testosterone therapy -

Your doctor or medical professional will check your testosterone levels before ever prescribing TRT. They will also measure the sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which can impact the amount of testosterone that is available for the body to use.

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Understanding testosterone dosage for women -

Women require only about one-tenth of the testosterone dose prescribed for men. Because there are no FDA-approved testosterone treatments for women, doctors will often rely on custom formulations, meaning consistency in dosing can be challenging.

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Benefits of testosterone therapy for women -

Women using TRT have reported increased energy, better mood, improved muscle strength, and enhanced cognitive function. However, more long-term studies are needed.

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Testosterone and intimacy -

One benefit of TRT in women is its ability to improve intimacy. Studies show that low-dose testosterone can help women who suffer from hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD).

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Physical performance and testosterone -

Testosterone is important in muscle maintenance, strength, and body composition. Some women have reported improved stamina and physical endurance with TRT.

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Cognitive and mood benefits of TRT -

While results and benefits are anecdotal, women say that using testosterone helps to enhance their focus, mental clarity, and even their emotional stability.

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The uncertainty around TRT’s long-term effects -

There aren't any long-term studies on the impact of TRT on women. Short-term studies suggest it's safe, but questions remain about whether it could affect heart disease and breast cancer.

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The controversy over testosterone therapy -

Medical experts disagree about the use of testosterone therapy in women. Some advocate for its benefits, while others warn about the lack of regulatory oversight, inconsistent dosing, and unknown long-term effects.

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Side effects of testosterone therapy -

TRT can have short-term side effects including acne, hair growth in unexpected areas, mood changes, and irritability.

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Risks of excessive testosterone in women -

Excess testosterone can cause effects like a deepened voice, excessive body hair, and more. High doses may also increase the risk of cardiovascular problems, blood clots, and infertility.

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Why some women stop testosterone therapy -

While some women experience positive results, other women choose to stop because the testosterone is causing hair thinning, aggression, or acne breakouts.

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Testosterone and mental health -

Testosterone contributes to mood regulation, and some women have reported feeling less moody and more balanced when doing TRT. However, if you're not careful, too much testosterone might cause you to become irritable.

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Monitoring testosterone levels during therapy -

It's very important to regularly monitor testosterone levels while on TRT. This can help you avoid too much testosterone and the harmful side effects.

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Testosterone and heart health -

Some studies done with men suggest that testosterone therapy does not increase heart disease risk, but research on women is far from sufficient. Experts say that until more data is available, women should approach TRT with careful medical supervision.

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TRT and bone health in women -

Testosterone can help maintain bone density. There is even some evidence that suggests TRT may reduce osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. More studies are needed, though.

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Challenges in accessing testosterone for women -

Women face a lot of issues with obtaining TRT. This includes a lack of FDA approval, thus limited insurance coverage and lots of medical skepticism. 

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Testosterone and body fat distribution -

Testosterone influences body fat distribution. Some women who do TRT notice changes in weight and fat loss. 

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Misconceptions about testosterone therapy -

There is a common myth that women who take testosterone will develop traditionally male characteristics. However, if properly dosed and with medical supervision, TRT can offer benefits without the woman developing these features. It's important to first seek a doctor's medical advice.

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The future of testosterone therapy for women -

Research is still very limited for women in terms of TRT. Experts hope that future studies will lead to safer, more effective FDA-approved testosterone treatments for female health.

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Alternative ways to boost testosterone naturally -

Lifestyle changes like strength training, reducing stress, improving sleep, and eating a balanced diet can help support natural testosterone production.

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Other uses for testosterone: gender-affirming care -

Sometimes, testosterone is used for gender-nonconforming or trans patients who intend to medically transition. In the end, whether you are transgender or cisgender, it's important to seek a medical professional's advice before taking any testosterone. 

Sources: (Time) (Healthline) (Cleveland Clinic) (Harvard Health Publishing)

See also: How to boost testosterone naturally

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