Testosterone Use for Women

Testosterone is not just a hormone for men. It is also secreted in small amounts by the ovaries and the adrenal gland and made from other hormones. It plays several roles in female sexuality:

• It stimulates desire.
• Boosts vaginal lubrication and genital sensitivity.
• It may also affect the enzyme that makes nitric oxide. This is a compound that helps dilate blood vessels in the genitals.
• Several studies have shown that testosterone (both in pills and patches) increases desire, orgasm, frequency of sexual activity, and other measures of sexual functioning in postmenopausal women.

Testosterone is sometimes prescribed “off-label” in the U.S. for sexual dysfunction in women. “Off-label” means that it is not approved for that purpose. There is currently no testosterone product approved for women in the U.S.

Before you consider taking testosterone, keep in mind that the connection between testosterone and sexual function in women is not so clear-cut.

• Testosterone production drops with age. But not all studies show a relationship between low levels and low libido (sex drive).
• Also, most research has included women who have had their ovaries removed (surgical menopause).
• Evidence that testosterone helps women who go through menopause naturally is more limited.
• Not much is known about its effects in premenopausal women and women not also taking estrogen.

Another problem is that no one knows what a “normal” range of testosterone is for women. This means that there is no correct dose. Depending on the form and dose, side effects of taking testosterone may include:

• Excess body or facial hair
• Acne
• Deepening of the voice
• Psychological changes
• Liver damage
• Lowering of HDL (“good”) cholesterol

Testosterone plays a role in female sexual function. But the role is not yet completely clear. Talk with your doctor before deciding to try a testosterone product.