Low testosterone in women is often overlooked, yet it plays a key role in overall well-being. If you’re feeling tired, moody, or noticing a lower sex drive, a hormonal imbalance could be the cause. This guide explores what leads to testosterone deficiency in women, its impact on health, and how to restore balance. Discover how bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can help you feel like yourself again.
You don’t hear much about low testosterone in women, largely due to common misconceptions about sex hormones. Let’s clear one up: Testosterone isn’t just a male hormone—women produce it too.
In fact, women often have higher testosterone levels than estradiol (the main form of estrogen). Though women produce less testosterone than men, low levels can significantly affect the body’s function.
Low testosterone symptoms in women are serious. If you’re experiencing them, you likely have questions.
We’ll explore BHRT as a solution shortly, but first, let’s dive into the causes and effects of low testosterone in women.
What Causes Low Testosterone in Females?
Your testosterone levels naturally change throughout your life, during your menstrual cycle, and even throughout a normal day. But there are instances when your testosterone levels can significantly drop below normal and stay there. Here are a few things that can cause low t in women.
- Long-term use of oral birth control pills and contraceptive patches
- Ovarian failure can lead to low testosterone levels
- Chemotherapy, radiation treatment, and eating disorders
- Using certain medications like anti-hypertensives and opiates
- Tumors on various glands in the body
- Menopause
Yes, menopause! Not only does menopause mess with your estrogen and progesterone levels, but it can also throw your testosterone levels off balance. You may be surprised to find out that medications that combat the side effects of menopause, like oral estrogen, can lower testosterone levels. Dealing with hormones can feel like a vicious circle at times.
What Does Testosterone Do for Women?
Testosterone is categorized as an androgen. Androgens tend to be thought of as male hormones, but the female body naturally produces androgens too. A woman’s body produces testosterone in the ovaries and adrenal glands. Testosterone levels affect
- sex drive
- fertility
- red blood cell production
- muscle mass and fat distribution
- mood regulation
- maintenance and growth of bones
- women’s sexual health
- vaginal health
- cardiovascular health
Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder and Low Testosterone in Women
Low levels of testosterone can lead to hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSSD). This widespread women’s sexual health problem occurs in as many as 8% to 19% of women. The effects of HSDD vary and include:
- fewer (if any) sexual fantasies
- lack of interest in sexual activity
- personal distress
- frustration
- sadness
- decreased self-confidence
- low self-worth
- depression
- fatigue
The exact cause of HSDD is still unknown. However, researchers suspect that low testosterone levels may be one of the culprits because Low-T is linked with less sexual desire. TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) has been shown to boost sexual desire in pre-menopausal and post-menopausal women.
What Is the Normal Level of Testosterone in a Woman?
We’ve discussed what causes low testosterone in women. The best way to find out if your testosterone levels are low is to talk with your healthcare provider.
They’ll order blood tests to measure the testosterone levels in your bloodstream. In addition, they may have you do multiple tests because hormone levels naturally shift from day to day.
You can also check in with yourself to see how you’re feeling:
- Have you been feeling sluggish?
- Do your muscles feel weak?
- Are you experiencing more fatigue than usual?
- Have you been having trouble going to sleep or staying asleep at night?
- Does it seem like your sex drive drove off without you?
- Have you felt less sexually satisfied?
- Do you feel like you’ve plumped up and gained weight?
- Have you been struggling with fertility issues?
- Are your menstrual cycles on no-cycle?
- Has your vagina felt itchy or dry?
- Have your lab results shown a loss of bone density?
These are all symptoms of low testosterone, so if you answered yes to more than one of the questions, it’s time to visit your doctor.
However, these low testosterone symptoms are also common to other conditions, so your doctor may look deeper into your health for signs of other issues or conditions like
How to Increase Testosterone in Women?
You can take two approaches to increase testosterone levels: the medical approach, and the natural approach . You don’t have to rely on one or the other. We find that taking a holistic approach by combining the two is the most effective.
The Natural Approach
- Exercise and lift weights.
- Eat protein, fats, and carbs.
- Minimize stress and manage cortisol levels.
- Get some Vitamin D from the sun or a supplement.
- Get plenty of restorative sleep.
- Enjoy a healthy sex life.
- Avoid exposure to toxins.
- Address excessive alcohol or drug use.
- Laugh…a lot!
The Medical Approach
A medical approach to increasing testosterone levels will ultimately involve bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). We said, up top, that this would be a solution we’d suggest, if appropriate for you. So read on.
What is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Basically, BHRT replaces the hormones you don’t have with bio-identical hormones so that your hormone levels can get back to normal. BHRT is most often used to address the symptoms of menopause in women, but it can be used for a host of other conditions. These can include cancer treatment, adrenal and thyroid disorders, insulin resistance, fibromyalgia, osteoporosis, and more.
Bioidentical hormones differ from synthetic hormones because they’re a natural hormone replacement. They are derived from plant sources and are chemically identical to those produced by your body.
Your practitioner customizes BHRT for your individual needs and can deliver it in many forms, including:
- Injections
- Creams
- Pills
- Patches
- Gels
- Insertable Pellets
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for women is somewhat controversial right now. The FDA has approved few testosterone-based treatments for women because the side effects can include
That’s why it’s crucial that you receive BHRT from a trusted source and a doctor who will monitor your progress.
Women Can Increase Testosterone With Nava Health
Do you think you have low testosterone or suffer from a hormone imbalance? At Nava Health, we want to unlock a healthier you and help you feel your personal 100%. We offer you customized and holistic care, so don’t be afraid to contact us for a consultation today. We always look at your overall health before prescribing any treatment.
We cover what causes low testosterone in women, how you know if you have low levels, why testosterone is crucial to your functioning, and how you can increase your levels, including using BHRT from a trusted provider.
Need More Info? Get Your Questions Answered!
What Is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)?
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), including testosterone replacement therapy, is a method used to restore declining hormone levels. As women age, estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone naturally decrease, leading to uncomfortable symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, and a lower sex drive. BHRT uses bioidentical hormones derived from natural sources to replenish these levels, helping you feel more energized and balanced.
Why Is Testosterone Important for Women?
While testosterone is often associated with men, it plays a crucial role in women’s health too. It helps maintain testosterone production, muscle strength, bone density, and cognitive function. When levels drop, women may experience brain fog, loss of motivation, and increased body fat. Testosterone therapy can help restore these essential functions, allowing women to feel their best.
How Does Testosterone Affect Women During Menopause?
A menopausal woman experiences a dramatic decrease in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. While estrogen loss is widely discussed, testosterone deficiency can also contribute to common menopause symptoms like fatigue, depression, and difficulty maintaining muscle tone. Understanding how testosterone production influences your body during this transition can help you make informed choices about treatment options.
What Are the Symptoms of Low Testosterone in Women?
If your body isn’t producing enough testosterone, you may notice:
- Lowered sex drive: A decline in testosterone can reduce sexual desire and satisfaction.
- Fatigue and low energy: Low testosterone in women may result in feeling persistently drained.
- Mood changes: Anxiety, depression, and irritability are common with testosterone deficiency.
- Muscle loss and weakness: Testosterone is key to maintaining muscle mass and strength.
- Increased body fat: A shift in testosterone production can lead to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.
How Is Testosterone Therapy Personalized for Women?
At Nava Health, we tailor testosterone therapy to each individual. We begin with a comprehensive assessment of your hormone levels, medical history, and symptoms. From there, we create a customized treatment plan that may include testosterone replacement therapy as part of a broader hormone replacement therapy approach. Our goal is to restore balance while prioritizing your overall health.
How Can I Increase Testosterone Levels and Improve My Well-Being?
If you want to support testosterone production naturally, consider:
- Eating a balanced diet: Protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-rich foods can promote hormone balance.
- Strength training: Resistance exercises can stimulate testosterone production and maintain muscle tone.
- Prioritizing sleep: Poor sleep can disrupt hormone levels and lead to testosterone deficiency.
- Managing stress: High stress levels can negatively impact testosterone production and overall women’s health.
Why Consider Testosterone Therapy for Menopause?
For a menopausal or postmenopausal woman, testosterone therapy can be an essential part of overall care. It can help combat fatigue, cognitive decline, and muscle loss, allowing you to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. At Nava Health, we specialize in hormone replacement therapy solutions that are personalized to your needs. If you suspect low testosterone is affecting your well-being, our team is here to help.
Take Control of Your Hormonal Health
Don’t let testosterone deficiency hold you back. Whether you’re struggling with low energy, weight gain, or a declining sex drive, there are solutions available. Contact Nava Health today to learn how testosterone replacement therapy can help restore your vitality and confidence.