There is a common misconception that testosterone is a male hormone and thus, women do not need it. However, this hormone is vital if balance is to be maintained within the female body.
What is testosterone and why is it important for women?
Testosterone is a steroid hormone that occurs in both men and women (although significantly more so in men). In women, it is produced by the ovaries and the body’s fat tissue, and then released into the bloodstream. Testosterone is necessary for the growth and repair of reproductive and other tissues, as well as for the maintenance of bone mass.
What are symptoms of low testosterone levels?
Testosterone hormone imbalance in women can be difficult to diagnose, as the symptoms of testosterone deficiency can also be symptomatic of low estrogen levels. These symptoms include:
- Fatigue and disrupted sleep patterns
- Unexplained weight gain
- Decreased libido and inability to orgasm
- Depression, anxiety and mood swings
- Osteoporosis or decreased bone density
- Irregular periods
- Hair loss
What can cause testosterone imbalance in women?
Testosterone production in women will naturally start to decrease with age, but there are numerous other factors that can put a woman at risk of testosterone hormone imbalance. These include medical procedures such as hysterectomies, diseases like diabetes, measles or cancer, medications (most notably those related to hormones, e.g. oral contraceptive or thyroid medications) and lifestyle factors such as smoking, pregnancy, alcohol intake and a lack of exercise.
What can you do about it?
Due to the difficult nature of diagnosing hormone imbalance, it is best to seek expert advice if you are concerned you may be suffering from low levels of testosterone. Metro MediSpa can offer guidance, diagnosis and treatment to ensure that your hormones retain balance so that your body can operate at peak levels.