Low Testosterone in Women: Causes and Treatments

Low Testosterone In Women: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, And Misconceptions

“There is growing interest in the role of genetics in testosterone production and how the body responds to it. Looking for a healthcare professional that will listen to your concerns and help you take action to feel better? Thrivelab makes hormone health assessment safe, affordable, and effective with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy solutions right from the comfort of your own home. Testosterone is a male sex hormone, but it plays a crucial role in maintaining a woman’s overall health – helping with things like energy, mood, libido, cognition and more. Excessive testosterone can cause male-related side effects in women. You should consult your healthcare provider to determine the safest and most effective treatment method for low testosterone.

With this in mind, it can be difficult to ensure that one test’s results are indicative of an ongoing problem. For the best results and the most consistent reporting, women should be tested 8 to 20 days after the menstrual period begins. Doctors and researchers still do not fully understand how low testosterone levels affect females or how much does a testosterone test cost without insurance best to treat the deficiency. Also, medications that address the side effects of menopause can lower testosterone levels. However, many females with low testosterone levels do not experience these symptoms. Healthcare professionals consider a person’s symptoms when diagnosing low testosterone levels, but they may need to take a blood test for a conclusive diagnosis.

In fact, in a study of 2000 men last month, 55 per cent of men were ignorant about the symptoms. The lack of education about TD, along with the stigma of seeming “unmanly,” means that 85 per cent of men wait over a year before seeking treatment. It is important to note that the symptoms of low testosterone levels can vary widely between individuals, and a diagnosis of low testosterone levels should not be based solely on blood test results. We’ve all heard of testosterone, but did you know this hormone is present in both men and women?

Guidelines suggest yearly colorectal cancer and blood pressure checks. Colorectal cancer screenings start at age 45, and regular prostate cancer screenings should take place from age 50 to 70, unless a strong personal or family history dictates otherwise. A 2020 meta-analysis found that TRT significantly improved depressive symptoms in men with low testosterone. Testosterone is also involved in stimulating muscle growth and bone formation by activating osteoblasts and preventing bone loss. Testosterone aids in improving cognitive functions and cognitive performance in women and men. By Carrie Madormo, RN, MPHMadormo is a health writer with over a decade of experience as a registered nurse.

She has worked in pediatrics, oncology, chronic pain, and public health. You may have low testosterone depending on the symptoms you have, please contact us to find out how we can help. The side effects of DHEA supplementation can be similar to those of too much testosterone. Although lower testosterone may make it harder, you can still lose weight if your levels are low. You may also not want to take DHEA if you have depression or bipolar disorder. It may also worsen liver disease and increase insulin resistance, so ask your doctor before taking it.

Additionally, some estrogen treatments, like birth control pills, can lower a woman’s testosterone levels. Low testosterone levels can lead to numerous health problems that can take a serious toll on a woman’s day-to-day livelihood. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to talk to a licensed and trusted healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause. With the right treatment options, women with low testosterone can improve their quality of life and maintain their overall health and well-being. Low testosterone levels can significantly impact various aspects of a woman’s health.

If you’re still getting a period, there’s a specific window in your cycle that’s best for measuring testosterone in your blood. Talk to a healthcare provider if you struggle with any of these symptoms. They can evaluate you and assess if testosterone levels may be responsible. Testosterone levels gradually begin to decrease as you enter your 30s. But you can experience low testosterone levels at any time in your life.

You should always talk to your doctor before starting any testosterone or related medications and supplements. They’ll be able to provide tests and make sure that there are no interactions with other medications you take. You must be over 38, have had your ovaries removed or have suffered with premature menopause to warrant further hormone tests. This article has been researched and written based on scientific evidence and fact sheets that have then been crossed checked by our team of doctors and subject matter experts. While many women are worried about the effects that low T has on the body, there is plenty of hope for women who are experiencing low T and the side effects. This means that it can be hard to pinpoint exactly where the problem is. It also means that when the problem is found, it is easier to treat because doctors will have a generally good idea of what is causing it.

To tell if you’re in menopause, and if you aren’t experiencing any of the most common symptoms, first try to track your period. Any irregularities could be a sign that you’re in perimenopause. Menopause causes symptoms, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood changes, in an estimated 85% of people. But this leaves 15% of people who may not see any of these symptoms. While at-home tests can give you an idea of your hormone levels, they’re not 100% accurate.

Low testosterone is often hard to diagnose because its symptoms mimic other conditions like depression, thyroid issues or low iron (anemia). Testosterone is an androgen (sex hormone) produced in your ovaries and adrenal glands. Low testosterone levels can affect your mood, libido and musculoskeletal health. But, even though PCOS dominates the conversation, it’s not the only condition behind androgen excess.