Testosterone in Women: Everything You Need to Know
Sex drive, muscle mass and bone density
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Today At A Glance:
Testosterone isn't just for men; in women, it's a key player in energy, mood, and libido. Understanding and managing testosterone levels can unlock a healthier, more vibrant life for women at any age.
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Neuro Athletes,
Testosterone is often thought of as a male-only hormone. However, it's time to shed light on the critical role of testosterone in women's health and debunk the myths that surround female testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
Let’s dive into why testosterone is not just beneficial but essential for women, especially as they age.
Understanding Testosterone in Women
Contrary to popular belief, testosterone is as vital for women as it is for men, albeit in smaller quantities. It plays a crucial role in various bodily functions beyond just libido, including maintaining muscle mass, ensuring bone health, and regulating mood and energy levels. Women produce testosterone in their ovaries and adrenal glands, and just like men, they experience a decline in testosterone levels as they age.
This decline can lead to several uncomfortable symptoms that can affect a woman's quality of life.
Why Women Need Testosterone
Women need roughly four times as much testosterone as they do estrogen, a fact that surprises many given the traditional focus on estrogen's role in women's health.
Testosterone helps combat fatigue, supports a healthy libido, and maintains muscle strength and bone density. It also contributes significantly to cognitive clarity and emotional stability
The Consequences of Low Testosterone
As women enter their 30s and beyond, the natural decline in hormone levels can lead to symptoms that are often mistakenly attributed to aging or menopause alone. These can include:
Reduced libido and sexual dissatisfaction
Increased body fat and decreased muscle mass
Fatigue and decreased energy levels
Mood swings and depression
Cognitive decline and memory problems
These symptoms are frequently overlooked or misattribated to other causes by healthcare providers, leaving many women without the correct diagnosis or treatment options.
Testosterone and Moral Judgement
I found this study super interesting because it explores how testosterone administration in females can influence moral judgments and brain activity. Specifically, the study showed that testosterone could lead to more utilitarian decisions during moral dilemmas and also affected brain regions involved in moral reasoning, such as the amygdala and prefrontal cortex.
This suggests that hormonal influences, possibly even from prenatal exposure, may shape how we make ethical decisions later in life.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy: A Beacon of Hope
For women experiencing low testosterone, TRT can be a game-changer. Although it's more commonly associated with men, TRT for women can safely and effectively alleviate many symptoms of testosterone deficiency. It's important to note, however, that while testosterone replacement therapy is an option, it is not FDA-approved for women and should be approached carefully under the guidance of a knowledgeable healthcare provider.
Natural and Safe Approaches to Boosting Testosterone
For those wary of traditional hormone therapies or for whom TRT might not be an option, there are natural ways to support testosterone levels:
Supplementation with DHEA: DHEA is a hormone that serves as a precursor to testosterone (and estrogen). It is naturally produced in the body and can be taken as a supplement to help gently boost testosterone levels.
Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, particularly strength training, can naturally boost testosterone levels. A balanced diet rich in proteins, healthy fats, and certain minerals like zinc and vitamin D can also support hormone health.
Reducing Stress and Getting Adequate Sleep: Both high stress and poor sleep are known to negatively impact hormone levels, including testosterone. Managing stress through techniques like meditation or yoga and ensuring 7-8 hours of quality sleep can help maintain healthy testosterone levels.
Addressing the Myths
It's crucial to address the myths surrounding testosterone therapy in women. No, it will not make you appear more masculine, nor will it drastically change your personality or physical appearance. When administered in the right doses, it helps restore hormonal balance and improve overall health without drastic side effects. As always, check all of this with your physician prior to adding anything in when it comes to hormones.
I hope you enjoyed this one team, if you did, send it to a friend and let them know the importance of testosterone !
Until next time,
Louisa x
The challenge is finding a provider that will prescribe…
I am a 59 year old woman, what should my testosterone level be? I find a lot of variation in recommended levels. I do feel better when my level is higher, recently a blood test showed a my level to be 323 and I felt great at that level but my doctor thinks that is too high. She can’t tell me why though.