Dr Katie and Dr Laura from The Lifestyle Health Clinic provide expert answers to your most common questions about testosterone
When we think about hormones and menopause, oestrogen usually takes centre stage. But there’s another hormone that matters too: testosterone. Women make it in smaller amounts than men, but it plays an important role in how we feel through perimenopause, menopause and beyond.
Dr Laura – The Lifestyle Clinic
Here’s Dr Laura and Dr Katie’s expert Q&A to help you separate fact from fiction.
Quick Facts About Testosterone
- Women produce testosterone in the ovaries and adrenal glands
- Levels start to drop from our 30s
- Low levels can affect energy, sex drive and muscle strength
What does testosterone do for women?
Testosterone helps with:
- Energy and motivation
- Muscle strength and tone
- Sex drive and pleasure
- Mood and confidence
- Mental focus and clarity
What happens to testosterone during menopause?
Levels of testosterone start to fall in our 30s. During perimenopause and menopause this decline becomes more noticeable, especially as oestrogen is falling at the same time.
Some women notice:
- Loss of interest in sex
- More difficulty building muscle tone
- Fatigue that feels different from just being busy
- Brain fog or trouble concentrating
Is testosterone therapy available for women?
Yes. Testosterone can be prescribed for women when symptoms suggest it may be helpful.
Most women use a small amount of testosterone gel or cream applied to the skin each day. The dose is carefully tailored to individual needs, with regular follow-up appointments and blood tests to make sure levels remain safe and treatment is effective.
Not all GPs can prescribe testosterone. This doesn’t mean they are unwilling, just that they may not have the specialist experience or training. You may need to see a doctor or clinic with a special interest in menopause and women’s health to access this treatment and get the right monitoring.
New: Testosterone Cream for Women
The MHRA has now approved AndroFeme®, a testosterone cream designed specifically for women.
‘Dr Katie Hilton – The Lifestyle Clinic’
This is the first licensed female testosterone product in the UK. Until now, women have been prescribed very small amounts of testosterone products designed for men (such as gels) or AndroFeme used “off label”.
It is not yet available via NHS prescription, only via private clinics, but this approval is a big step forward and should make treatment more consistent and easier to access in the future.
Is testosterone safe?
When prescribed carefully and monitored, testosterone therapy is considered safe for most women. Side effects are uncommon at the right dose but can include mild acne or increased facial hair if levels get too high.
Can I boost testosterone naturally?
Yes. Lifestyle plays a big part.
- Strength training helps maintain muscle and support healthy testosterone production
- Eating enough protein and healthy fats provides the building blocks for hormones
- Good quality sleep supports hormone balance
- Managing stress helps adrenal hormones work well
Quick Facts About Testosterone
• Women produce testosterone in the ovaries and adrenal glands
• Levels start to drop from our 30s
• Low levels can affect energy, sex drive and muscle strength
The Bottom Line
Testosterone is not just about sex drive. It can support energy, strength, confidence and mental clarity for some women. If you still do not feel yourself in midlife, or if HRT has not fully eased symptoms like low libido or fatigue, a consultation about testosterone might help.
What does testosterone do for women?
Testosterone helps with:
• Energy and motivation
• Muscle strength and tone
• Sex drive and pleasure
• Mood and confidence
• Mental focus and clarity
For more information about The Lifestyle Health Clinic, visit their profile on the Women’s Health Club Health & Wellbeing Directory.
Read Dr Laura and Dr Katie’s article about bone health and the menopause here.
