doctors that treat low testosterone

Testosterone and Womens Health

Testosterone and Womens Health

Low estrogen levels can also cause the symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, fatigue, poor sex drive and depression. For women who are postmenopausal and who are still struggling with these symptoms, low estrone levels may be the reason. However, research has not yet found a definite link between the ovary hormone and these symptoms. Sometimes both men and women can struggle with high levels of dihydrotestosterone, which stems from excess testosterone production.

A doctor can work with you to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and develop a plan to manage your hormonal levels. Unfortunately, testosterone is made from pregnenolone, which is also the precursor to estrogen and progesterone. If your body is using more testosterone more muscle pregnenolone to create excess testosterone, there’s a chance your progesterone levels may be low. In certain cases, you may need to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before the test. Ask your provider how you should prepare for a testosterone levels test. A blood sample for a testosterone test should be taken in the morning between 7 and 10. During these hours, your testosterone levels are typically the highest.

The most common reason for low estrogen in women is menopause or surgical removal of the ovaries. This figure shows the normal female testosterone range on the left and the normal male range on the right. Abnormal testosterone ranges can be produced by people with certain differences of sex development (DSDs). The conditions that affect genetic (biological) females are all below the male range. The conditions that affect (genetic) biological males are all above the female range. Those conditions are described further in the answer to Question 27 below. Women experiencing symptoms of low testosterone levels should consult their healthcare provider for medical advice and treatment options.

Some research suggests that low testosterone levels may affect fertility in women. This is because inadequate testosterone levels can disrupt ovarian function and menstrual cycles, potentially resulting in difficulty conceiving. If you experience sudden, unexplained weight gain, it may be worth getting your testosterone levels checked. Weight gain can lead to a number of health problems, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, so it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible. By balancing testosterone levels, women can maintain energy levels throughout the day, making it easier to accomplish daily tasks and maintain a healthy lifestyle. In males, testosterone production is highest during puberty, triggering the development of primary and secondary sexual characteristics. In women, production of testosterone is highest during the reproductive years, then gradually declines over time.

Testosterone also helps with muscle mass and bone strength, cardiovascular health, and overall energy levels and quality of sleep. If any of these organs — your hypothalamus, pituitary gland or gonads — aren’t working normally, that can cause abnormal testosterone levels. Androgen receptors are scattered through the central nervous system, and their activity affects libido, heat regulation, sleep, cognitive function, language, and visuospatial skills. While a marked cognitive shift does not accompany menopause, some women may notice a reduced quality of life. Testosterone therapy does not seem to have any adverse cognitive effect, nor does it adversely affect mood or well-being. About 25% of androgens in women come from the adrenal glands, another 25% from the ovaries, and the rest peripheral tissues. The chief precursors of androgens in the body are DHEA-S – almost always in the adrenal glands – DHEA and androstenedione.

A woman’s testosterone levels may be high due to congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). One study found that taking testosterone may improve muscle strength and cognitive performance in postmenopausal women. However, taking testosterone may also increase the risk of heart disease.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment that involves supplementing the body with bioidentical hormones to address hormonal imbalances. These hormones are structurally identical to the hormones your body naturally produces, which means they blend in seamlessly with your hormonal ecosystem. Menopause is characterized by a decline in estrogen and testosterone levels, which can lead to symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and a decrease in libido. If your testosterone levels are elevated, treatment will focus on balancing your testosterone with other hormones.

Medical, natural, or a combination of both types of treatment may help regulate testosterone levels. It’s important to note that for people assigned female at birth (AFAB), there’s no exact number for determining high testosterone levels, also known as hyperandrogenism. These include low doses of the hormone estrogen and a type of counseling called sex therapy. There are usually no side effects with testosterone treatment as it is given to replace the testosterone that you are otherwise lacking.