
Why It’s Finally Getting the Attention It Deserves
When most people think about hormones in women, they think of estrogen and progesterone. But there’s another hormone that plays a critical role—and for a long time, it’s been overlooked.
That hormone is testosterone.
And in recent years, the medical community has started to take a much closer look at how important it really is for women’s health
Testosterone Isn’t Just a “Male Hormone”
Women naturally produce testosterone throughout their lives. It’s made primarily by the ovaries, with additional support from the adrenal glands. Levels peak in early adulthood and gradually decline with age, with a more noticeable drop during and after menopause. For women who have had their ovaries removed, that decline can be even more significant. So while testosterone is often associated with men, it’s actually essential for women in the right balance.
What Testosterone Does in the Female Body
Testosterone plays a role in multiple systems, not just libido.
It contributes to:
- Energy levels and motivation
- Lean muscle mass and metabolic function
- Bone density and long-term skeletal health
- Cognitive function and mood stability
- Sexual health, including desire and responsiveness
This is why low levels can show up in ways that don’t immediately seem “hormonal.”
What Happens When Levels Drop
As testosterone declines, many women report:
Persistent fatigue, even with good sleep
Decreased strength or muscle tone
Brain fog or reduced mental clarity
Low motivation or drive
Changes in libido
In other words, we just feel tired, physically and emotionally. These symptoms are often dismissed or attributed to “normal aging,” but in many cases, hormones are playing a role.
What Research Says About Testosterone Therapy
Clinical interest in testosterone therapy for women has grown significantly. According to the The Menopause Society and the Endocrine Society:
- Testosterone therapy can be beneficial for women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD)
- When used at appropriate doses, it has been shown to improve sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction
Beyond sexual health, emerging research suggests potential benefits in:
- Bone density support, especially when combined with other therapies
- Body composition, including maintenance of lean muscle
- Mood and cognitive function, although more research is ongoing
What About Anemia and Other Benefits?
Testosterone has been shown to stimulate red blood cell production, which is why it’s sometimes used in specific medical contexts related to anemia. However, in women’s hormone therapy, this is considered a secondary effect, not the primary reason for treatment. The primary clinical indication remains symptom-based, particularly related to sexual health and overall quality of life.
Is Testosterone Therapy Safe for Women?
When prescribed and monitored appropriately, testosterone therapy is considered safe for many women. The key is dosing. Women require significantly lower doses than men, and therapy should always be individualized. Potential side effects, such as acne, hair changes, or voice deepening, are typically associated with excessive dosing and are avoidable with proper medical oversight. This is why working with knowledgeable providers is essential.
Why Conversation Is Changing
For years, testosterone in women was either ignored or misunderstood. Now, with better data and a more individualized approach to hormone therapy, providers are recognizing that optimal hormone balance includes more than just estrogen and progesterone. The focus has shifted from simply managing symptoms to supporting overall vitality, strength, and long-term health.
Our Approach at Dermahue Total Wellness Studio
At Dermahue Total Wellness Studio, we look at hormone health as a complete picture.
That means:
- Evaluating symptoms alongside lab work
- Understanding how different hormones interact
- Creating a plan that supports energy, metabolism, and overall well-being
Because feeling like yourself again shouldn’t be optional.
Final Thought
Testosterone isn’t about turning women into men. It’s about restoring balance.
And for many women, it’s the missing piece that helps them feel stronger, clearer, and more like themselves again.










