Testosterone for Women? The Benefits & Risks

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Last week we discussed Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) for men. It may be surprising to learn that many women are now taking testosterone as part of their health plan too. Though commonly associated with male physiology, testosterone is found naturally within women and is the most abundant active sex steroid in women throughout the female lifespan. It is essential for her physical and mental health including her energy, libido, and mood.

It is now common practice for women to take estrogen and progesterone hormone therapy, however, many medical professionals are now also supporting women supplementing testosterone to achieve more youthful levels. With that said, testosterone therapy for women remains a topic of debate.

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Overview: determine if TRT might be a suitable option for you

Also, we invite you to attend the free workshop on Tuesday June 25th (details below) to learn more about testosterone therapy and answer any questions you may have.

Benefits of Testosterone Therapy for Women:

Enhanced Libido and Sexual Satisfaction

Similar to men, low testosterone levels in women can lead to a decreased sex drive and less satisfaction during sexual activity. Testosterone therapy can help revive sexual desire and improve overall sexual experience.’

Increased Energy and Reduced Fatigue

Women experiencing persistent fatigue and low energy levels, particularly those in menopause or post-menopause, might benefit from testosterone therapy, which can help restore vitality and reduce feelings of tiredness.

Improved Mood and Mental Clarity

Testosterone can positively influence mood and cognitive functions. Women on testosterone therapy often report better mental clarity, reduced symptoms of depression, and a general sense of well-being.

Muscle Mass and Strength

Testosterone contributes to muscle growth and strength. Women receiving therapy may notice increased muscle mass and improved physical performance, aiding in better overall health and fitness.

Bone Density

As women age, particularly after menopause, bone density tends to decrease, raising the risk of osteoporosis. Testosterone therapy can help maintain or improve bone density, reducing the likelihood of fractures.

Risks of Testosterone Therapy for Women

There are many perceived risks associated with testosterone therapy for women including masculinization, cardiovascular risks, mood swings, emotional changes, hormonal imbalance and more.

With that said, a 2013 Review of the Literature in the Scientific Journal Maturitas titled “Testosterone therapy in women: Myths and misconceptions” by Rebecca Glaser and Constantine Dimitrakakis provided scientific evidence to question many of these myths. The authors encourage physicians to abandon the misconceptions associated with testosterone therapy, to provide evidence-based recommendations, and to fully understand proper dosing and delivery of testosterone therapy to help their patients decide if testosterone therapy is a treatment they should pursue to achieve optimal health. 

Determining If You Are an Ideal Candidate

To assess if testosterone therapy is right for you, consider the following steps:

Medical Evaluation

Begin with a comprehensive medical evaluation, including a detailed history and physical exam, to rule out other causes of symptoms and determine baseline hormone levels.

Blood Tests

Measure testosterone and other relevant hormone levels. Low testosterone should be confirmed with blood tests taken at different times.

Symptom Analysis

Evaluate symptoms such as low libido, fatigue, mood changes, and decreased muscle mass, and consider how they impact your quality of life.

Consultation with a Specialist

Discuss the potential benefits and risks with a healthcare provider specializing in hormone therapy, such as an endocrinologist or gynecologist, to tailor a plan suited to your individual health needs.

Regular Monitoring

If you start testosterone therapy, regular follow-ups and monitoring are essential to adjust dosages and manage any potential risks effectively.

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Testosterone therapy can be a valuable tool for improving women’s health and quality of life, but it requires a thoughtful and personalized approach. Consulting with knowledgeable healthcare professionals and carefully weighing the benefits and risks is crucial for making an informed decision.

Jeff Grimm, NP, a local expert in Anti-aging & Functional medicine with 15 years clinical experience in hormone related treatments and founder of BioLoungePDX, a longevity and functional medicine clinic, will discuss the following benefits and potential risks at the free workshop on June 25th. 

Free Workshop – Testosterone Replacement Therapy for Men (*Note, although this workshop will be focused on TRT for men, women can also benefit from the discussion)

When: Tuesday June 25th from 6:45-7:45pm

Where: NW Personal Training, 1011 Broadway, Downtown Vancouver WA

Speaker: Jeff Grimm, a local expert in Anti-aging & Functional medicine with 15 years clinical experience in hormone related treatments and founder of BioLoungePDX, a longevity and functional medicine clinic.

Sign up here or call 360.574.7292 to reserve your spot.

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Yours in health & fitness,
Sherri McMillan