Testosterone in Women: It’s More Important Than You Think

When it comes to women’s health, testosterone is often overlooked. Unlike hormones like estrogen, testosterone isn’t typically evaluated or replaced in women. In fact, neither the American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) nor the North American Menopause Society (NAMS) currently recommend routine testosterone assessments or therapy for women. Yet, mounting research suggests that testosterone plays a vital role in women’s well-being, especially as they age, impacting everything from mood to heart health.

Testosterone Deficiency and Aging in Women

While most testosterone research has focused on men, insights from experts like Dr. Abraham Morgentaler and Dr. Rebecca Glaser show us that testosterone also significantly affects women’s health. Dr. Morgentaler, a leading researcher, has gathered substantial data on testosterone’s effects on the body, showing that deficiency can impact overall quality of life, energy levels, and more. For women, Dr. Glaser highlights testosterone as the most abundant sex hormone throughout life, meaning it plays a crucial role beyond libido, influencing numerous aspects of health.

How Testosterone Impacts Women’s Health

Testosterone receptors, known as androgen receptors, are found in many areas of the body, including the heart, bones, muscles, breasts, and even the brain. This hormone contributes to:

• Mood and Mental Clarity: Higher testosterone levels correlate with improved mood and mental clarity, while low levels can lead to fatigue, memory issues, and irritability.

• Physical Health: Testosterone deficiency can result in bone and muscle loss, joint pain, and increased inflammation.

• Heart Health: Testosterone acts as a vasodilator, which means it helps dilate blood vessels, supporting heart health by reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Testosterone doesn’t cause unwanted masculinizing effects in women when dosed properly. Virilization, or the development of male-like features, occurs only with significantly high testosterone levels, typically seen in cases of testosterone-producing tumors. The carefully controlled doses used in therapy for women are far lower, providing benefits without these unwanted side effects.

The Connection Between Testosterone and Breast Cancer

One of the most compelling aspects of Dr. Glaser’s research involves the relationship between testosterone and breast cancer. Her studies indicate that testosterone may actually reduce breast cancer risk. Androgen receptors in breast tissue have anti-estrogenic effects when activated, reducing both abnormal and normal breast cell growth. In one of her studies, Dr. Glaser observed that women using testosterone therapy had a 39% lower incidence of invasive breast cancer compared to those who did not use testosterone. Another study comparing baseline breast cancer risks across various groups found that women using testosterone had significantly lower breast cancer rates than the general population. These findings point to the potential of testosterone as a preventive tool for breast cancer, meriting further study.

Reducing Cardiovascular Risk with Testosterone

Heart disease is a leading cause of death in women, more so than breast cancer. Testosterone therapy has been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular events. A study over 23 years following 16,000 women on testosterone therapy found that these women had a lower risk of heart disease, blood clots, and breast cancer compared to those not on therapy. This effect was even more pronounced in younger women, suggesting the importance of starting hormone therapy earlier in life, ideally before age 65.

The Bottom Line: A Safe and Effective Hormone for Women

Testosterone therapy for women isn’t just about boosting libido; it’s about improving energy, sleep quality, cognitive function, and overall health. Beyond these immediate benefits, testosterone can potentially lower the risks of serious conditions such as cardiovascular disease and breast cancer. With evidence supporting its safety and effectiveness, it’s worth discussing testosterone therapy with a qualified provider, especially for women approaching menopause. Embracing testosterone as part of women’s health opens the door to aging better, stronger, and with a reduced risk of major age-related diseases.

Listen to Dr Jackson go into detail about this topic!  You can hear the full episode on her podcast, Ageless and Outrageous.  Be sure to like and follow so you don’t miss an episode!

https://agelessandoutrageous.alitu.com/

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