Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Tempe for Women

We often mistake testosterone as the “male” hormone. While it’s true that men do produce ten times more testosterone than women, it still plays an important role in the health of women. What experts now agree on is that both sexes need an adequate level of testosterone to maintain both physical and mental health. They now believe that low testosterone, not estrogen, is what leads to weight gain, fatigue, loss of mental focus and low libido in middle-aged women.

What is Testosterone and How Does it Affect Women?

Testosterone is an androgen, or a hormone, that contributes to growth and reproduction in both men and women. Testosterone in females is produced in the ovaries and by the adrenal glands and helps promote bone growth, libido, and mood. It also helps relieve some vasomotor symptoms and vaginal atrophy and dryness. It is also the precursor to estrogen meaning without testosterone, there would be no "woman." “Normal” levels of testosterone vary from one woman to another, but experts suggest that the range of healthy testosterone levels is between 15 ng/dL – 85 ng/dL.

Low testosterone levels have been proven to have the potential to seriously impact female health and well-being.

What Are the Symptoms of Low Testosterone?

Clinical studies have shown that low testosterone in women can have several negative impacts, primarily related to physical, sexual, and psychological well-being. The main symptoms include:

Reduced Sexual Desire and Function

Decreased libido (sexual desire) is the most consistently documented and clinically significant effect of low testosterone in women.
Women may also experience reduced sexual arousal, fewer spontaneous sexual thoughts, and diminished sexual satisfaction.
Some studies have shown improvement in these symptoms when testosterone levels are restored to normal physiological ranges.

Loss of Muscle Mass and Strength

Testosterone contributes to muscle protein synthesis, so low levels can lead to reduced lean body mass and decreased muscle strength.
This can impact overall physical performance and energy.

Decreased Bone Density

Testosterone plays a role (alongside estrogen) in maintaining bone mineral density.
Chronic deficiency can contribute to osteopenia or osteoporosis, increasing fracture risk, especially in postmenopausal women.

Mood and Cognitive Effects

Low testosterone has been linked with fatigue, low motivation, depressive symptoms, and difficulty concentrating.
Some women describe a general sense of “loss of vitality” or reduced well-being.

Body Composition Changes

Low testosterone contributes to decreased lean muscle mass and increased fat mass, especially visceral (abdominal) fat.
Testosterone supports muscle protein synthesis and helps regulate fat metabolism. When levels fall, the resting metabolic rate (RMR) decreases, making it easier to gain weight even without dietary changes.

Metabolic Effects

Low testosterone is associated with insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism, both of which can promote central adiposity (belly fat).
Studies have found that women with lower free testosterone tend to have higher fasting insulin levels and higher BMI—particularly after menopause when estrogen also declines.

Benefits of Testosterone Replacement Therapy for Women

Increased muscle mass & strength
Increased libido
Lowers cholesterol levels
Increased energy, stamina and endurance
Improved mental functioning
Improves mood
Improved feeling of well-being
Protects against heart disease
Improved focus and concentration
Protects bone mass

Testosterone Replacement Therapy Options and Treatment

Testosterone can be combined with Estrogen and Progesterone or it can be prescribed individually. If your Estrogen and Progesterone levels are normal, you will only be prescribed Testosterone for your therapy. Hormone levels can be checked with a simple blood test that is covered by most insurances. Testosterone replacement comes in the form of a topical cream or injection. Either way the dosage can be adjusted up or down.

Testosterone replacement is not suitable for all women either for medical or personal reasons. Pregnant women, those suffering with severe acne, and those with excessive body hair growth or balding should not take testosterone.

Additional Resources:

Timeline for Testosterone Injections

Effects of Female Testosterone Levels

Testosterone Replacement Therapy Consultation