Is Testosterone useful in Menopause? With Dr Sam Brown

When we talk about menopause, we often focus on oestrogen, but there's another hormone that deserves our attention: testosterone. Yes, women produce it too, and it's not just about sex drive. Testosterone helps with our energy, mood, and even muscle strength

Why Testosterone Matters for Women

As we age, our testosterone levels naturally drop, which can leave us feeling tired, less motivated, and sometimes a bit foggy in the brain. If you're already on HRT and still not feeling quite right, low testosterone might be the culprit.

"It's really important not to see this in isolation and to assess all the different factors that can come into play."

Getting Testosterone Right

If you're thinking about testosterone therapy, it's usually added to your existing HRT regimen. Your doctor might want to check your hormone levels first to make sure you're a good candidate for it. The treatment often starts with a specialist and then can be managed by your GP.

What to Expect

Testosterone for women isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. It comes in gels and creams, and sometimes we use products designed for men in smaller doses. It's important to keep an eye on how you're feeling and any side effects, like acne or unwanted hair growth. A yearly check-in with your doctor can help keep things on track.

"We don't have a lot of research, and we really, really do need much more research in this area."

Can You Take It Forever?

There's no clear end date for testosterone therapy. It's about how you feel and what works for you. If it's helping, and you're not having any issues, there's no pressing reason to stop. Just like any other medication, it's about weighing the pros and cons with your doctor.

“Go into that appointment with your GP armed with research, and if you think testosterone might be missing, then ask if they can prescribe it if they're confident to or get a referral on to a menopause clinic because I do think for some women, this can be a game changer.”

The Takeaway

If you're navigating menopause and HRT isn't quite doing the trick, it might be worth having a chat with your doctor about testosterone. It's not just for guys, and it could be the missing piece that helps you feel more like yourself again.