Testosterone is a hormone that is typically associated with men, but women also need testosterone. Adequate levels of testosterone in women are important for bone density and muscle mass, cognitive function, mood, sexual function, and energy. Testosterone, combined with estrogen, helps with the growth, maintenance, and repair of a womans reproductive tissues, bone mass, and human behaviors. However, too little or too much testosterone can affect overall health and impact the levels of other sex hormones in the body.

There is little research on the safety and effectiveness of testosterone therapy in women, and the side effects of testosterone on women are not fully understood. Testosterone therapy may boost sex drive for some women after menopause, but it is controversial and not widely studied. The Endocrine Society stated in 2019 that while trying testosterone therapy is generally safe for post-menopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), they do not support low-T therapy for other female health conditions. Side effects from testosterone therapy in women can include deepening of voice, enlargement of clitoris, excessive body hair, increased acne, and abnormal fetal development during pregnancy.

In summary, testosterone is important for womens health, but too little or too much can have negative effects. Testosterone therapy in women is controversial and not widely studied, and the side effects are not fully understood. Women who are considering testosterone therapy should talk to their healthcare provider and carefully consider the potential risks and benefits.