Low Testosterone In Women: Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment

While testosterone is commonly linked to males, it is essential to note that women also possess small quantities of this hormone in their bodies.
Testosterone involves numerous physiological processes in women, including regulating mood, energy, sexual drive, muscle development, and metabolism.
Testosterone deficiency in women can be caused by various factors, such as the presence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), surgical removal of the ovaries, or the natural ageing process.
Symptoms of low testosterone levels in women may include a decreased sex drive, feelings of fatigue, mood swings, weight gain, episodes of hot flashes, and vaginal dryness.

Despite being commonly associated with males, testosterone is present in smaller quantities in female bodies, serving essential functions.

Insufficient levels of testosterone in women can give rise to various symptoms, some of which can cause physical discomfort. Moreover, a deficiency in this hormone may also have psychological and emotional repercussions for women, potentially affecting their overall well-being.

This article aims to delve into the various factors that can cause women to have low testosterone levels. We will also examine the common signs and symptoms that may indicate a testosterone deficiency, as well as the different treatment options that are currently available.

What Is Testosterone?

Androgens, including testosterone, play a crucial role in the growth of secondary male sexual traits, including hair growth, voice deepening, and the enhancement of muscle mass.

Testosterone is predominantly synthesised in the testes of men, while in women, it is primarily produced in the ovaries and adrenal glands.

Despite having lower testosterone levels than men, women still rely on this hormone for essential functions such as

Blood cell production
Metabolism
Muscle mass
Cholesterol levels
Mood
Hair and skin growth
Bone strength and health
Energy levels
Libido

Both insufficient and excessive levels of testosterone can significantly affect a woman's overall well-being.

What Causes Low Testosterone In Women?

A testosterone deficiency in women also referred to as hypoandrogenism, can be caused by both primary and secondary factors.

Primary Causes

The following factors cause insufficient testosterone:

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This condition involves an imbalance in hormones that causes imbalanced levels of androgens in women, disrupting normal ovarian function. This interference with testosterone production in the ovaries can lead to various symptoms and complications.
Women Who Have Had Their Ovaries Removed: Following an oophorectomy, women may experience a decrease in hormone levels, as the surgical removal of the ovaries can result in diminished production of this hormone.
Ageing: As women go through the ageing process, their ovarian function naturally decreases, resulting in a decrease in the production of testosterone. This decline in testosterone levels is widespread in postmenopausal women, who are at a higher risk of experiencing low testosterone levels.
Adrenal Insufficiency. This condition, commonly called Addison's disease, is characterised by dysfunction in the adrenal glands, which play a crucial role in hormone production. While its primary impact is on the adrenal medulla, it can disrupt the body's delicate hormone balance.
Congenital Conditions: Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a genetic disorder that can cause the adrenal glands to produce insufficient androgens, leading to hormonal imbalances.

Secondary Causes

These factors can also contribute to low testosterone levels in women:

Hormonal Imbalances: Disruptions in hormone production, such as hypopituitarism, can impair the ovaries' ability to produce testosterone. Additionally, the release of hormones can be affected by chronic stress.
Certain Medications: Glucocorticoids, such as prednisone, have the potential to decrease testosterone levels, similar to certain birth control pills.
Chronic Illnesses: Women with conditions such as kidney disease and diabetes may suffer from hormonal imbalances. Additionally, chronic inflammation caused by these illnesses can disrupt the body's hormone production.
Lifestyle Factors: Imbalances in hormones can occur due to excessive physical exertion, being significantly underweight, or being obese.
Alcohol And Substance Abuse: These behaviours have the potential to disrupt endocrine function, which in turn can result in decreased levels of testosterone.

What Are The Symptoms Of Low Testosterone In Women?

While there is extensive research on the effects of excess testosterone in women, the symptoms and health problems associated with low testosterone in both men and women are still not well understood due to a lack of scientific research.

It should be emphasised that not all women will experience these symptoms the same way, and the severity of the symptoms can vary significantly from person to person.

Low Libido

Testosterone is crucial for regulating sexual desire in both men and women. When testosterone levels are low, there is a decrease in the activation of the hypothalamus, a critical region responsible for sexual arousal.

A decrease in women's sexual desire can hurt the level of sexual intimacy within their relationships, potentially causing tension and strain between partners.

Fatigue And Low Energy Levels

Testosterone plays a crucial role in regulating our energy levels by affecting both muscle mass and metabolism, which are critical determinants of our energy levels.

When testosterone levels fall, individuals may experience a lack of energy and fatigue, which can hinder their ability to stay focused and accomplish their daily responsibilities.

Mood Changes

Testosterone levels in the body have a direct influence on our moods, as well as the functioning of the brain's neurotransmitter systems. When testosterone levels are low, individuals may experience mood swings, irritability, and an elevated vulnerability to mood disorders.

Insufficient levels of testosterone can lead to the deterioration of muscle mass and a decline in overall physical power.

Weight Gain

Insufficient testosterone levels can contribute to excess body fat accumulation, particularly in the abdominal region. This occurs as testosterone plays a crucial role in regulating fat metabolism, and a deficiency can disrupt the body's balance between muscle and fat composition.

Hot Flashes

Hot flashes can occur in women when there are lower levels of testosterone, as this can interfere with the hypothalamus, which is responsible for regulating body temperature.

Sleep Disturbances

When hormones are out of balance, such as having low testosterone levels, it can disrupt the natural rhythm of sleep. As a result, individuals may struggle to sleep throughout the night as well as fall asleep.

Changes In The Skin And Hair

An inadequate testosterone level can lead to hair loss and dry, unhealthy skin. Moreover, it can affect the texture and appearance of both hair and skin.

Vaginal Dryness And Discomfort

Testosterone also contributes to the overall sexual health and well-being of women by maintaining the integrity and elasticity of vaginal tissues, as well as promoting natural lubrication.

Decreased testosterone levels can result in reduced vaginal lubrication, which in turn can lead to discomfort and pain during sexual activity.

Menstrual Pattern Changes

Insufficient levels of testosterone can negatively impact the regularity and flow of menstrual cycles, leading to irregular periods and alterations in menstrual flow.

Cognitive Problems

Limited research suggests that women may experience cognitive function impairments, including memory and mental clarity, as a result of low testosterone levels. These effects are likely linked to the influence of hormones on brain function.

Bone Health Problems

Insufficient levels of testosterone in women, particularly those who have undergone menopause, can heighten the likelihood of osteoporosis and fractures by diminishing bone density.

Key Point: Testosterone And Fertility

Insufficient levels of testosterone in women have been linked to disrupted ovarian function and menstrual cycles, which can potentially lead to difficulties in conceiving, according to certain studies.

Treating Low Testosterone In Women

Women who experience low levels of testosterone can explore several treatment options, such as:

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Healthcare providers prescribe testosterone therapy in various forms, including topical gels, creams, patches, or injections, to address low testosterone levels in individuals.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Supplements: It is essential to consult with your doctor before considering testosterone treatment, as DHEA can have varying effects on individuals and may not be suitable for every woman due to potential side effects. Supervision by a healthcare provider is necessary to ensure safe and appropriate use.
Clomiphene Citrate: This treatment, commonly prescribed to women with PCOS, involves the administration of a medication that boosts testosterone production in the ovaries.
Lifestyle Changes: Increasing your testosterone levels can be achieved through adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and implementing effective stress management techniques.
Management Of Underlying Conditions: In cases where low testosterone is caused by medical conditions like PCOS or adrenal disorders, it is essential to prioritise treatment for these underlying conditions. By effectively managing and addressing these conditions, there is a potential for an increase in testosterone levels.
Medication Adjustments: If certain medications are responsible for low testosterone levels, your doctor might modify your dosage or propose alternative medications as a solution.
Vaginal Hormone Therapy: Women with low testosterone levels can find relief from vaginal dryness and discomfort by using topical hormone therapies. These techniques help to alleviate symptoms and improve overall comfort.

Key Point: How Do Doctors Diagnose Low Testosterone In Women?

While healthcare providers typically use a blood test to diagnose low testosterone levels, it's worth mentioning a woman's hormone levels can fluctuate during the cycle, leading to potential variations in your blood test results.

To determine if you have low testosterone levels, your doctor can perform four different types of blood tests.

Total Testosterone Level: This test assesses the total amount of testosterone circulating in the blood.
Free Testosterone Level: Unlike total testosterone, free testosterone is not bound to proteins in the blood, making it a more reliable measure of actual testosterone levels in the body.
Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG): This protein can bind to testosterone, regulating the amount of this hormone the body can utilise.
Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S): DHEA, as previously stated, serves as a precursor to testosterone, allowing your doctor to gauge the levels of androgen production within your body.
Other Hormone Levels: Alternative tests can be utilised to assess the levels of various hormones within your body.

When Should I Seek Medical Help For Low Testosterone Levels?

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms described earlier, particularly if they significantly impact your well-being, it is crucial to seek medical advice. In women, low testosterone levels can sometimes signal an underlying medical condition like Addison's disease, which necessitates specific treatment.

Mobi Doctor is your solution if you are worried about experiencing low testosterone levels and the accompanying symptoms.

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