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Women and Testosterone: Benefits, Risks, and the Current Debate
This article explores the rising trend of women using testosterone therapy, examining its benefits, risks, and the FDA's stance.
English
United States
HealthEntertainmentGender IssuesWomenTreatmentTherapyHormones
GennevStanford MedicineNorthwestern Medicine Center For Sexual Medicine And MenopauseMassachusetts General Hospital’s Midlife Women’s Health CenterFda
Rebecca Dunsmoor-SuAmy VoedischTraci KurtzerJan ShifrenMarcella Hill
- What is testosterone and what role does it play in women's bodies?
- Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, but women also have it in much lower levels. It plays a role in libido, muscle health, and energy for both sexes, and levels naturally decline with age.
- What cautions should women consider before starting testosterone therapy?
- Testosterone therapy should only be considered after addressing other potential causes of low libido in women, including relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and medical conditions. It's not a miracle cure-all for menopausal symptoms.
- What are the potential risks and side effects of testosterone therapy for women?
- While generally safe when prescribed and monitored by a doctor, high doses of testosterone for women can cause side effects including acne, excess hair growth, and voice changes, some of which can be permanent.
- Why are more women seeking testosterone therapy, and what are the common reasons?
- Women use testosterone to alleviate symptoms like low sex drive, depression, lethargy, and brain fog associated with perimenopause and menopause. Social media has fueled interest, but the FDA hasn't approved it for these uses beyond low libido.
- What is the FDA's stance on testosterone therapy for women, and what does the research show about its effectiveness?
- The FDA hasn't approved testosterone therapy for women except to treat low libido after other causes are ruled out. Clinical trials show modest benefits for libido, with one extra satisfying sexual event per month compared to placebo.