Testosterone is an androgen hormone that is present in both men and women. For women testosterone is created in the ovaries and the adrenal glands. Testosterone controls much of the sexual function in women, and low testosterone can often severely impact sexual health.
What Causes Low Testosterone?
Quick Fact
The main cause for low testosterone in women is the result of surgery, either for a hysterectomy or the removal of ovaries. Low testosterone can also occur in women during menopause. Other reasons for low testosterone are not uncommon however. These can include:
- Natural old age in conjunction with a drop in progesterone and estrogen levels
- Damage or disease in the pituitary or hypothalamus gland
- Infections (e.g., meningitis, mumps)
- High blood pressure
- Morbid obesity
- Chemotherapy
- Diabetes
What Are the Symptoms of Low Testosterone?
Clinical studies have shown that the main negative impact of low testosterone in women is a dangerous effect on their sexual health. The treatment for low testosterone can include sexual health supplements. Low testosterone doesn't only affect sexual health; it also affects the general well-being of women. For this reason it is important that knowledge of the symptoms of low testosterone be familiar to those who believe they may be suffering from low testosterone. Such symptoms include:
- Build up of extra weight, usually around the abdominal area
- Loss of muscle mass and strength
- Irregular periods
- Vaginal dryness
- Fatigue
- Greater risk of cardiovascular disease
- Lack of sex drive
- Pain during sex
- Anorgasmia
- Lack of sex drive
- Osteoporosis
- Depression
Recommendation
Low testosterone can cause a number of problems which are not solely isolated to sexual health complications. Due to its importance to women's bodies, it is advised that the symptoms of potential low testosterone levels to be monitored closely. In the event of low testosterone levels a variety of treatment courses can be followed. These include: a gel that provides continuous release, a patch or a sublingual tablet that dissolves under the tongue.
Testosterone supplements are used by many women to treat their menopause symptoms. Studies have found, however, that testosterone comes with a flurry of side effects, which can be dangerous to women's health. These are mainly associated with taking too high a dosage. Because of this, it is advised that women consider all of the alternatives before taking testosterone medications.
