Testosterone is primarily thought of as a male sex hormone, but it is also present in females in very low amounts. In females, it is produced by the ovaries and indeed has several essential roles to play in contributing to their overall health and well-being.
Although females have very low levels of testosterone in their bodies, if their levels drop below the required amount, this might give rise to some health issues. Similarly, when their levels rise, above the required amount, then this can also affect them in some ways.
Role of testosterone for women
Just like testosterone is the primary sex hormone in males, in females it is estrogen that plays a crucial role. However, males do have some amounts of estrogen, and similarly, testosterone is also present in small amounts in females.
The combination of estrogen and testosterone is needed to carry out several processes in both males and females. Here are various ways in which testosterone supports female health:
Sexual function
Testosterone hormones are responsible for regulating the sex drive or libido in females. It increases the sexual desire and inclination to intimacy. Females with low levels of testosterone have a low sex drive, which makes them lose interest in sexual activity. They might avoid sexual interactions.
On the contrary, those females who have sufficient levels of testosterone have healthy sexual interest and responsiveness.
Bone health
Estrogen hormone is primarily responsible for maintaining bone health in females, however, testosterone also contributes to bone density. Testosterone supports bone formation by stimulating the osteoblasts, which are cells that lead to an increase in bone mineral density and bone strength.
It has an essential role in preventing fractures and eliminating the risk of developing osteoporosis in females. After menopause, the likelihood of osteoporosis in females rises because of a drop in estrogen. However, when there are adequate levels of testosterone in the body, this risk gets reduced.
Muscle mass
Testosterone aids in the growth and development of muscle mass in both males and females. It promotes the synthesis of muscle proteins, which is necessary for muscle growth, development, and repair. This hormone helps trigger the activity of satellite cells that are involved in processes like muscle regeneration and hypertrophy.
As a result, it contributes to increased muscle strength, which also reduces the fat mass. Testosterone increases muscle mass and metabolism, which helps improve body composition.
Besides, the hormone also boosts exercise performance, thereby increasing muscle strength, power, and endurance. As a result, athletic performance and fitness are improved, which enables females to stay in good shape.
Mood regulation
The testosterone hormone regulates mood. It can influence the emotional well-being of females. Those with low testosterone tend to exhibit symptoms like sudden mood changes, fatigue, depression, and, irritability.
Cognitive function
As per some studies, Testosterone can impact cognitive function by influencing memory, attention, concentration, and, spatial abilities. However, comprehensive research is needed to support these claims.
Effects of high testosterone in women
Testosterone imbalance can affect the health and sex drive in females. It can cause physiological changes in them and their appearance might change. The symptoms of high testosterone include balding, excess body hair, growth of facial, acne, decreased breast size, enlarged clitoris, deepening of voice, and increased muscle mass.
Some severe effects of high testosterone for women are low sex drive (libido), mood changes, and irregular menstrual cycles.
Testosterone therapy for women
Women with certain health conditions are prescribed testosterone therapy by their healthcare providers. Such health conditions can be:
Menopausal symptoms
The levels of testosterone naturally decline with age in women, particularly during and after menopause. Some women may develop several symptoms of low testosterone, which include, decreased sex drive, fatigue, and mood changes.
To alleviate these symptoms, healthcare providers recommend getting testosterone therapy as part of hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD)
HSDD is a condition that is characterized by persistently low sexual desire, which contributes to distress or interpersonal difficulties. Healthcare providers may suggest testosterone therapy to increase sex drive or libido and enhance sexual satisfaction in women with HSDD.
Note that, testosterone therapy in women is generally prescribed at much lower doses compared to men. It is carefully performed by a skilled and certified healthcare practitioner.
Moreover, this therapy is not suitable in the case of every woman. It might have potential risks and side effects, therefore, it is necessary to discuss the potential benefits and risks associated with a healthcare professional before considering the treatment.
