Although the word "testosterone" is commonly associated with men, women also produce a small amount of this hormone. A woman's ovaries and adrenal glands secrete testosterone and, although the qualities compared to a male are much less, it is a critical hormone for women. According to the North American Menopause Society (2005), female testosterone peaks typically at the age of 20, then steadily decreases as a woman approaches 40. Testosterone is necessary for normal female growth and development.
Body Fat Levels
As women approach middle age and menopause, many complain of increased body fat, particularly around the abdomen. Also referred to a "visceral fat," this deep-level fat forms around organs located in the abdominal area. According to a Rush University Medical Center 2009 study, this fat is considered a greater risk factor than fat in other areas, and contributes to increased heart disease and arteriosclerosis. The study found women who were within six years before or after menopause to have a rising level of "active" testosterone, which corresponds with an increase in this deep-level body fat.
Bone Density
Women who have reached or are past menopause may have lower bone density, and run the risk of osteoporosis. Adding testosterone to hormone-replacement therapy for postmenopausal women can have a positive effect on bone density. A study by Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research found that "in postmenopausal women, treatment with combined estradiol and testosterone implants was more effective in increasing bone mineral density in the hip and lumbar spine than estradiol implants alone."
Sex Drive
Reduced female libido after menopause also may be due to lower testosterone levels. In 2004, BioSante Pharmaceuticals Inc. (BPA) conducted a double-blind study of the drug "LibiGel," intended for women. This drug claims that measured low doses of testosterone can improve a woman's libido. The study found that women using the patch did have a "... statistically significant increase in sexual activity."
Cholesterol
According to the American Menopause Society, oral testosterone treatments cause lower HDL levels in women. HDL is the "good" cholesterol that transports cholesterol to your liver, which then excretes it as bile. HDL is critical to cardiovascular health, as it counters the actions of LDL cholesterol, which is considered "bad," since LDL deposits cholesterol in your arteries. Low HDL levels contribute to the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Possible Testosterone Treatment Risks
Testosterone treatments also carry some rare but reported side effects. Some of these are serious, such as an increased risk of blood clots, seizures and hepatitis. Women taking DHEA supplements (dehydroepiandrosterone) should mention this to their physician before starting any testosterone treatment. Women should let their doctor know of all prescription and over-the-counter drugs they are taking before starting any testosterone therapy.
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