Testosterone for women

Why Some Women Need Testosterone Therapy — While Others Need It lowered

Testosterone is often thought of as a “male hormone,” but it is also an important hormone for women. In fact, women produce testosterone in their ovaries and adrenal glands, and it plays a key role in energy, mood, muscle strength, and sexual health.

However, when testosterone levels are too low or too high, women can develop symptoms. This is why some women benefit from testosterone therapy, while others need treatment that reduces or blocks testosterone.

When Women May Need Testosterone Therapy

Some women develop low testosterone levels, particularly during perimenopause and menopause. Levels may also decline after ovary removal, chronic stress, illness, or certain medications.  The indication for testosterone therapy in women is low libido, but other symptoms women experience are:

• Fatigue and low energy
• Brain fog or poor concentration
• Reduced motivation
• Loss of muscle strength
• Low mood

For women with suboptimal levels and symptoms, carefully prescribed testosterone therapy may help restore balance and improve quality of life.

When Testosterone Needs to Be Lowered

Other women experience the opposite problem — too much testosterone or increased sensitivity to it.

This commonly occurs in conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or with insulin resistance.

High testosterone may cause:

• Acne
• Excess facial or body hair
• Thinning hair on the scalp
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Fertility challenges
• Low or high libido

In these situations, treatment focuses on reducing testosterone levels or blocking its effects while addressing underlying metabolic or hormonal issues.

Why Hormone Testing Matters

Not every woman needs the same treatment. Symptoms alone can overlap between hormone imbalances, which is why proper testing and a thorough medical assessment are important.