More women are turning to testosterone therapy and reporting improvements in libido and energy. Yet the trend is complex. Many are taking doses that may be higher than recommended because there are few female-specific, standard-dose products. At present, there is not enough research on testosterone use by women.
Why are women turning to testosterone?
Testosterone is commonly tied to men’s health, but it also plays a key role in women’s health. The hormone is produced by the ovaries and adrenal glands and helps regulate libido, supports bone and muscle health, and contributes to mood and energy. Production peaks in late adolescence and early adulthood and then declines, dropping to about half of its peak by age 60.
Today, many perimenopausal and menopausal women are using testosterone and crediting benefits such as improved sexual desire and energy. However, some women are taking much higher doses than medical guidelines recommend. Women in their 40s and beyond are sometimes using hormone levels that exceed what they produced naturally at any point in their lives, with some users approaching levels typical of teenage boys.
What is the state of research on testosterone therapy for women?
There is no universal standard for what counts as a normal testosterone level in women. The Cleveland Clinic notes the absence of a widely accepted baseline. National Geographic points out that the only evidence-based use of testosterone for women is to treat low libido after menopause, yet there is still no standardized approach to prescribing it for female patients.
Some studies suggest that restoring a woman’s testosterone to levels similar to those in her late 30s can improve sex drive without severe side effects, but there are no products that can reliably achieve this target. Women seeking testosterone support may obtain products intended for men and estimate a suitable dose (roughly one-tenth of male prescriptions) or receive compounded medications from pharmacies. Compounded products are not FDA-regulated, which adds another layer of risk.
Potential risks and benefits
Benefits: Improved libido, potential mood enhancement, and energy gains have been reported by some users.
Risks: Taking too high a dose can cause hair loss, deeper voice, increased facial hair, or clitoral enlargement. Some side effects may be irreversible.
Product availability and regulatory status
The U.S. has not approved any standalone testosterone product for women. FDA rejection of a testosterone patch in 2004 illustrates the regulatory gap.
Women’s access to testosterone often involves nontraditional routes such as wellness clinics, nutritionists, medical spas, or longevity practices, which are typically not covered by insurance.
Australia is the only country with a government-approved testosterone product made for women. Other nations are working to develop and approve similar options.
Recent large trials in various countries have shown that testosterone can improve desire, arousal, and sexual responsiveness in women, alongside improvements in self-image. Researchers hope that more government-funded studies will align research with real-world needs.
Implicating considerations for readers
Seek medical guidance: Given the lack of standardized dosing and regulatory oversight for female-specific testosterone therapies, consult a healthcare professional before starting or adjusting treatment.
Consider risks: Be aware of potential irreversible side effects with dosing that exceeds guideline recommendations.
Evaluate expectations: Recognize that not all benefits are guaranteed long-term, and energy and bone health effects require more robust evidence.
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