People generally consider testosterone to be a male hormone that turns boys into men. Although this is true, testosterone is also present in the female body, and in fact serves a vital function. Women produce about one-seventh of the amount of testosterone that men do, but it is still important that you understand why we need it and what it does.
Read on to find out about testosterone in your body.
Where Is Testosterone Produced?
Despite the differences between men and women, we still have one thing in common — we share the same hormones (just in different proportions). Men have a small amount of progesterone, which is usually associated with femininity, and similarly, women have a small dose of testosterone.
Our testosterone is produced in two separate places, in the ovaries and in the adrenal glands. Production starts when females hit puberty, peaks during their early twenties, and then decreases during menopause. The adrenal glands continue to produce testosterone even after menopause.
Why Do Women Need Testosterone?
Testosterone is a steroidal hormone and is needed just as much for women as it is men. Fortunately, it aids in characterizing us as women and doesn't result in us having big bulging muscles like we might expect it to. Our testosterone is mainly used for the following purposes:
- Sexual development and sexual regulation throughout life
- Mood and emotions
- Strengthens our brain tissue to help prevent blood clots and stokes Promotes healthy skin
- Fights against bone fractures or breaks
- Helps to distribute fat in our bodies
What Emotional Effects Does Testosterone Have?
Testosterone is often referred to as our “personality hormone”, and not because it causes mood swings. The small amount of testosterone in woman has been found to convey us with a sense of well-being, power, motivation, and assertiveness. It can also be helpful in preventing mood swings and depression.
How Do I Cope With Testosterone Imbalance?
Unfortunately when a woman goes through menopause, the production of testosterone will be disrupted. Usually, if a woman has too little testosterone, she will experience a decreased libido, which can be difficult to understand. Fortunately the effects of testosterone deficiency can be reversed fairly quickly by making changes to your diet and lifestyle. If you have too much testosterone, you may notice some changes in your voice, body shape, or hair growth. If this happens, you should visit your doctor to get the appropriate treatment.
Recommendation
If you experience an imbalance of testosterone during menopause, or become worried that you have a lack of testosterone before menopause, then visit your doctor and get a proper diagnosis and some advice. Making lifestyle and dietary changes can certainly have a positive impact on the hormone, so follow the link below to learn more.
