Testosterone Therapy for Women
Testosterone is present in women as well as men, but testosterone therapy in women has much narrower evidence-based indications than testosterone replacement in men. Evaluation should begin with symptoms, medical history, medications, menopausal status, sexual health, and other possible causes of the concern.
When Testosterone May Be Considered in Women
Testosterone therapy may be considered in selected women after a comprehensive medical evaluation, particularly when clinically appropriate for persistent sexual-desire concerns after other contributing factors have been addressed. Testosterone should not be prescribed simply because a laboratory value is low or as a general treatment for fatigue, weight loss, mood, or “anti-aging.”
Comprehensive Evaluation Before Treatment
Symptoms can overlap with menopause, thyroid disease, sleep disorders, medication effects, mood disorders, relationship factors, genitourinary symptoms and other medical conditions. Evaluation may include targeted laboratory testing when clinically appropriate and discussion of alternatives to testosterone therapy.
Safety and Monitoring
When testosterone is prescribed, dosing and monitoring should be individualized. Follow-up may include symptom response, adverse effects and clinically appropriate laboratory testing. Potential androgenic effects such as acne, increased facial or body hair, scalp hair changes and voice changes should be discussed.
Read our detailed guide to low testosterone and testosterone therapy in women.
Written and medically reviewed by David Nazarian, M.D.
