Testosterone is typically thought of as the ‘male’ hormone. But while it’s true that men have up to 100 times more in their bodies than women, testosterone is equally crucial for female health and wellbeing.
‘The benefits in women are both physical and emotional,’ says bioidentical hormone specialist Dr Marion Gluck (mariongluckclinic.com). ‘Testosterone gives women energy, drive and confidence. It enhances libido and is essential for maintaining strong bones to avoid osteoporosis later on in life.’
THE MENOPAUSE EFFECT
Most women are familiar with plummeting oestrogen and progesterone levels during the menopause. Hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings and menstrual cycle fluctuations are telltale signs that our hormones are changing. But did you know that the amount of testosterone in the body also gradually declines as you age?
Around half of our testosterone is produced by the ovaries and the other 50% by the adrenal glands. Levels are highest in women in their 20s, but have usually halved by the time they reach 40.). ‘Women who experience surgical menopause by removal of the ovaries are likely to notice the change in testosterone much more because the drop is sudden.’
