Myths about testosterone harm for women. Myth 1: “Testosterone is a male hormone, and women need it only for libido”

Even in scientific publications, testosterone is called the "male hormone". Men do have higher circulating testosterone levels than women; however, quantitatively testosterone is the most abundant active sex steroid in women throughout their entire lives.

Testosterone levels peak at around 18 or 19 years of age and then decline throughout the rest of adult life.

Androgens play an important physiological role in women and can contribute to sexual health.

However, the role of testosterone in sexual function and libido is only a small part of its physiological effect in women. Testosterone receptors are located in virtually all tissues, including the breast, heart, blood vessels, gastrointestinal tract, lungs, brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, bladder, uterus, ovaries, endocrine glands, vaginal tissues, skin, bones, bone marrow, synovial membrane, muscle and fat tissue.

Women in pre- and postmenopause may experience symptoms of androgen deficiency:dysphoric mood (anxiety, irritability, depression)poor wellbeing, physical fatigueloss of bone mass — osteopenia, osteoporosisloss of muscle mass — sarcopeniamemory problems, insomniahot flashes, sensations of heatpain in bones and jointsfrequent urination, urinary incontinencesexual dysfunction

These symptoms of androgen deficiency are increasingly identified in women and are treated with testosterone.

Prevention is the path to preserving health. If you have these symptoms, regardless of age, do not hesitate to see a doctor.