The Importance of Testosterone in Women's Health
Testosterone plays a crucial role in various physiological functions as well as overall health and well-being for women. Here are ten important aspects where testosterone is vital.
Libido and Sexual Function
Testosterone is key for maintaining healthy libido and sexual function in women. Adequate levels of testosterone support sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction. Research indicates that women with low testosterone levels may experience decreased libido and sexual dysfunction.
Bone Health
Testosterone contributes to bone health by supporting bone density and strength. In women, testosterone helps maintain bone mass and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Optimal testosterone levels within the specified ranges are associated with better bone mineral density and decreased fracture risk, particularly after menopause when estrogen levels decline.
Muscle Strength and Mass
Adequate testosterone levels are essential for maintaining muscle strength and mass in women. Testosterone supports muscle protein synthesis and overall muscle function. Women with optimal testosterone levels tend to have better muscle tone, strength, and physical performance, contributing to overall mobility and metabolic health.
Mood and Cognitive Function
Testosterone influences mood, cognitive function, and mental well-being in women. Low testosterone levels have been linked to mood swings, irritability, and decreased cognitive function. Maintaining testosterone within the ideal ranges can support mental clarity, stable mood, and cognitive sharpness throughout different life stages.
Energy Levels and Vitality
Testosterone plays a role in energy production and vitality. Women with sufficient testosterone levels often report higher energy levels, improved stamina, and a sense of vitality. Optimal testosterone levels support metabolic function and help mitigate feelings of fatigue and low energy.
Cardiovascular Health
Testosterone contributes to cardiovascular health in women by supporting healthy blood vessel function and circulation. Adequate testosterone levels are associated with improved cardiovascular outcomes, including better lipid profiles and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Maintaining testosterone within the specified ranges may contribute to heart health.
Skin and Hair Health
Testosterone influences skin health by promoting collagen production and maintaining skin elasticity. In women, optimal testosterone levels contribute to healthy skin texture, moisture balance, and overall appearance. Additionally, testosterone plays a role in maintaining hair growth and thickness, supporting scalp health and hair follicle function.
Metabolic Function and Weight Management
Testosterone helps regulate metabolic processes, including fat metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Women with optimal testosterone levels may experience improved metabolic function, better weight management, and reduced risk of insulin resistance. Maintaining testosterone within the recommended ranges supports overall metabolic health.
Menstrual Cycle Regulation
Testosterone plays a role in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and reproductive health in women. Balanced testosterone levels contribute to normal ovarian function and menstrual regularity. Women with adequate testosterone levels within the specified ranges may experience more predictable menstrual cycles and hormonal balance.
Overall Quality of Life
Testosterone is essential for overall quality of life in women, influencing various aspects of physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Optimal testosterone levels support a healthy, active lifestyle, contributing to enhanced vitality, resilience to stress, and a sense of well-being throughout different stages of life.
As a functional medicine practitioner, recognizing the multifaceted role of testosterone in women's health is crucial. Monitoring testosterone levels within the recommended ranges of 35-45 ng/dL for total testosterone and 3.25-4.6 pg/mL for free testosterone allows for targeted interventions to optimize health outcomes and improve quality of life for women.
Balancing testosterone levels through personalized approaches such as lifestyle modifications, nutritional support, and hormone therapy when appropriate can help women achieve and maintain optimal health across their lifespan.
Not sure if you need to have your testosterone levels checked? Below are symptoms associated with imbalanced testosterone levels:
How do you know if you should test your hormones to see if they're optimal?
The following symptoms could be caused by testosterone imbalance.
Low testosterone:
Irregular periods
Absence of menstrual periods
Decreased muscle mass
Increased body fat, especially around the abdomen
Loss of bone density (osteoporosis)
Decreased breast size
Dry skin
Thinning hair
Decreased libido (sex drive)
Reduced sensitivity in the genitals
Difficulty achieving orgasm
Fatigue or lack of energy
Mood swings
Irritability
Depression or anxiety
Poor concentration or memory
Hot flashes
Sleep disturbances
Decreased sense of well-being
Reduced motivation or drive
High testosterone:
Hirsutism
Alopecia
Acne
Increased Muscle Mass
Weight Gain
Oily Skin
Body Odor
Irregular periods
Infertility
Mood swings
Depression
Anxiety
Insulin Resistance
Dyslipidemia
Skin tags
Enlarged Ovaries (PCOS)
Need someone to run testing for you?
As an Integrative Clinical Nutritionist, Jade has access to affordable labs of all kind, including sex hormones! If you’re looking for a lab analysis, check out the options below.