Testosterone is often associated with male physiology, but it also plays an important role in women’s health. While women and individuals assigned female at birth (IAFAB) naturally have lower levels than men, testosterone is vital for various bodily functions, influencing everything from energy levels to reproductive health. Understanding its role, signs of imbalance, and how to manage its levels can significantly impact a woman’s well-being.
Testosterone’s Function in Women
Testosterone in women and IAFAB is primarily produced in the ovaries and adrenal glands. It contributes to:
- Libido and Sexual Function: testosterone enhances sexual desire and sensitivity.
- Bone Health: it helps maintain bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
- Muscle Mass: supports muscle strength and development.
- Mood Regulation: influences mood and cognitive function.
- Energy Levels: affects overall energy and vitality.
Signs and Causes of Low Testosterone in Women
Testosterone levels in women naturally decrease with age. In fact, peak testosterone is at around age 25, after which it gradually declines That being said, low testosterone has other potential causes, including:
- Genetics: some women may have inherited a genetic anomaly that prevents them from producing enough testosterone.
- Medications: certain medications, including hormonal birth control and corticosteroids, may cause low testosterone in women.
- Ovary removal: if a person has had their ovaries removed, they will produce less testosterone as a result.
- Cancer treatment: radiation and chemotherapy may also affect testosterone levels in the body.
- Malnutrition: being underweight and/or deficient in certain vitamins and minerals can cause low testosterone. A balanced diet and healthy body mass index are important in hormone health in general.
- Certain underlying conditions: certain health issues can contribute to low testosterone in women, including thyroid disorders, Addison’s disease (adrenal insufficiency), and Turner syndrome, a genetic disorder caused by a random mutation on one of the X chromosomes.
Symptoms Of Low Testosterone In Women
As testosterone lowers, many women experience bothersome symptoms. Some of the more common ones include:
- Low sex drive
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness or loss of muscle tone
- Brittle hair and nails
- Fertility issues
- Insomnia
- Loss Of Bone Density
How Is Low Testosterone in Women Treated?
The treatment of low testosterone in women and IAFAB will vary depending on the dose needed and any underlying health conditions that may be present. Your provider may recommend one or more of the following:
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): to restore lost testosterone and help alleviate associated symptoms. Balanced Body Health and Wellness uses a type of HRT called “bio-identical” hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). You can read more about BHRT and its benefits here.
Dietary Modifications: to boost the body’s natural abilities to produce testosterone.
Exercise Modifications: regular exercise is important in maintaining good health overall, and certain exercises have been shown to boost testosterone in both men and women. On the other hand, excessive exercise can have the opposite effect. Your provider will educate you on a healthy exercise routine that will help support your hormone health.
Lifestyle Modifications: chronic stress is a contributing factor in low testosterone and other hormonal imbalances in women. Your provider may recommend ways you can lessen your daily stress through calming activities, such as meditation or yoga.
Effects of High Testosterone in Women
Too much testosterone can also have negative effects for women and individuals AFAB. Higher-than-normal testosterone levels in women may lead to:
- Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Changes in menstrual patterns.
- Acne: Increased oil production leading to breakouts.
- Hirsutism: Excess facial and body hair growth.
- Voice Deepening: Rare but possible with significantly elevated levels.
- Infertility: Can interfere with ovulation and fertility.
What Causes High Testosterone in Women?
High testosterone in women and IAFAB may be due to a number of factors, including:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is one of the most common causes of elevated testosterone in women. This hormonal disorder affects the ovaries, leading to the development of small cysts and irregular menstrual cycles. Women with PCOS often experience increased androgen production, including testosterone, which can result in symptoms like hirsutism (excessive hair growth) and acne.
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)
CAH is a genetic disorder that affects the adrenal glands, causing them to produce excess androgens, including testosterone. This condition can lead to early signs of puberty in girls and increased body hair.
Adrenal Tumors
Tumors in the adrenal glands can cause an overproduction of androgens, including testosterone. These tumors are rare but can significantly affect hormone levels, leading to symptoms associated with high testosterone.
Ovarian Tumors
Certain ovarian tumors can secrete excess androgens, including testosterone, disrupting the normal hormonal balance in the body. This can result in menstrual irregularities and other symptoms of high testosterone.
Medications
Some medications, particularly anabolic steroids or improper dosing in testosterone replacement therapy, can lead to elevated testosterone levels.
Genetic Factors
Some genetic conditions can predispose women to higher levels of testosterone. These may involve mutations that affect the production or metabolism of androgens.
How to Lower Testosterone in Women
Managing elevated testosterone levels in women involves a combination of medical treatments and lifestyle changes.
- Medications such as hormonal contraceptives or anti-androgen medications.
- Lifestyle changes, including a regular exercise routine. HIIT exercise, in particular, has been shown to help reduce testosterone levels in women.
- Dietary modifications that support overall health and regulate hormone production. This may include the addition of probiotics to support gut health, which is very important in maintaining a healthy level of hormones.
Hormone Testing in Omaha
Balanced Body Health and Wellness offers specialized assessments to evaluate testosterone and other hormone levels. We are Omaha’s top BHRT clinic, offering unique and effective ways to help our patients achieve optimum wellness. Contact us today for a free discovery call to see what we can do for you.
