As a woman enters to her menopausal transition, she will begin to experience an array of hormonal fluctuations and symptoms related to them. Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone decrease as a woman ages, causing a series of mental and physical changes. Most women, who have done their research about menopause, know that estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone have profound effects on the body. For example, women need testosterone just as much as men do - just in much lower doses. Keep reading to learn more about the relevance of testosterone during postmenopause.
What Does Testosterone Do?
Testosterone is a type of sex hormone known as an androgen, which means it is a steroid that influences the male characteristics in the body. Although testosterone is not present in the same quantities in females as in males, testosterone's functions within the female body still include important roles. It influences the sex drives of both men and women.
In women particularly, testosterone allows them to become more easily aroused, have more enjoyable intercourse and orgasm more frequently. Testosterone is not all about pleasure though; it affects the brain and cognition as well as blood circulation, muscle building, and bone strength.
Why Do I Produce Less Testosterone as I Age?
In women, testosterone is produced in the adrenal glands and ovaries. As they age, the ovaries and glands do not work as well as they once did, and the production of testosterone is limited. Another catalyst for declining testosterone production is a higher presence of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) which literally clings to testosterone and estradiol, a form of estrogen, to prevent them from functioning.
Is There a Connection Between Testosterone and Breast Cancer?
Some studies have suggested that testosterone has protective properties that may guard the body against carcinogens, or cancer causing agents. However, other studies have shown that high levels of testosterone may in fact raise the risk of pre and postmenopausal breast cancer.
Recommendation
There are many conflicting views in the world of medicine; this will become even more apparent as you delve deeper into your research. The best advice is to find a doctor you trust, ask all the questions you can think of, and then get a second opinion. At the end of the day, only you can decide what is best for you and your body. For more information on testosterone effects, follow the links below.
