Summary: Low testosterone in women is a growing concern nowadays. It comprises several symptoms like decreased libido, fatigue, lower sex drive, weight gain, and whatnot. Hence, understanding the causes & looking for proper treatment becomes necessary. So, if you want to learn all that you need to know about low testosterone levels in women, keep reading.
Introduction
Our testosterone levels fluctuate throughout our life, and each of us requires optimal levels of the hormone in our body, too. Since testosterone is vital for us, we must have an understanding of the effects of low testosterone in women so that we can manage our well-being better. So, let's move further into the blog and learn more.
Testosterone isn't a hormone that's found just in men. It's also present in women to some extent. Our ovaries also produce small amounts of testosterone in our body. So, let's get into the blog to have a better understanding of the need for testosterone in women.
Why do Women Need Testosterone?
Women need testosterone because of the roles that the hormone has in our overall health. Thus, making low testosterone in women is a cause of concern for many. So, here is why we need testosterone:
1. We have better sexual health and sex drive when we have optimal levels of testosterone in our bodies.
2. Our bone health is also improved due to testosterone in our body, and our risk of developing osteoporosis decreases, too.
3. Our cognitive function and memory are also improved when we have required levels of testosterone in our bodies.
4. To maintain our hormonal balance, we need progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone in our bodies.
5. Our muscle mass and strength become better when we have proper levels of testosterone in our body, and our ability to maintain lean body mass decreases as well.
6. Metabolism and body composition get enhanced in women due to testosterone, too.
Main Symptoms of Low Testosterone Levels in Women
Abnormal levels of testosterone can cause health issues, which is why we must identify the symptoms of low testosterone levels in women, such as
- Sluggishness
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbance
- Vaginal dryness
- Loss of bone density
- Low sex drive
- Fertility issues
- Irregular menstrual cycle
Symptoms of low testosterone in women can also be linked with other illnesses, so your doctor will look for other issues and signs before diagnosing you. Some symptoms of low testosterone could also be similar to those of depression.
What are the Causes of Low Testosterone Levels in Women?
The healthy levels of blood testosterone should be between 50-70 nanograms. The level of testosterone in your body also depends on the age you are in. Let's get into some of the causes of low testosterone in women:
1. Aging
As we age, our testosterone levels drop and then continue to go down till menopause. Though we still make testosterone in our body after menopause, our estrogen drops down, too.
2. Adrenal Failure
If you have issues with your adrenal gland, then it can also result in low testosterone. If your adrenal glands are failing, your levels of testosterone go down as well.
3. Medications
Taking oral contraceptives can also result in a lowering of testosterone in women. Contraceptives with estrogen and progesterone cause the ovaries to stop making androgenic hormones. Certain glucocorticoid steroids also result in female testosterone deficiency.
4. Pituitary Disorders
When our pituitary gland functions normally, it releases luteinizing hormones that signal our ovaries to produce testosterone. However, if you are dealing with a disorder in your pituitary gland, your ovaries will not receive the message to produce testosterones for you.
5. Both Ovaries Removed
Since our ovaries are responsible for creating androgenic hormones, women who have their ovaries removed have even lower testosterone levels in their bodies. The levels could go much lower than that of a postmenopausal woman, too.
6. HIV
One of the complications of having HIV is endocrine abnormalities. Moreover, a testosterone deficiency is seen as a side effect of having HIV in both men and women.
Five Major Symptoms of Having Low Testosterone Levels
The condition of having low testosterone in women is called hyperandrogenism and can be harmful to the overall well-being of a person. Let's have a look at the main effects of low testosterone:
Fatigue
The vitality in men and women is affected by the presence of testosterone in their bodies. Women feel more fatigued and have lower energy levels when they have low levels of testosterone in their bodies. They might struggle to do their everyday tasks, and their quality of life gets compromised, too.
Mood Swings
The testosterone in our body influences our moods and leads to swings, irritability, or feelings of sadness. These hormonal imbalances can make women feel more anxious and worried than normal.
Bone Health
There is a protective effect that testosterone has on our bone health. If the levels of testosterone are low, then their risk of osteoporosis increases, which is a condition causing weak and brittle bones. Such women are more likely to have fractures and other bone-related problems.
Decreased Libido
One of the most noticeable effects of low testosterone in women is the decrease in sex drive. Our sexual desires are linked to the levels of testosterone in our bodies. Also, testosterone helps with arousal. However, when your testosterone levels are low, you may feel a lack of interest in engaging in sexual activity.
Muscle Mass Loss
Our muscle mass and strength in our body are enhanced due to testosterone. Sometimes, women might experience a decrease in muscle tone and overall strength when their testosterone levels are low. Thus, maintaining a healthy weight becomes tougher when we lose muscle mass and strength.
How to Increase Low Testosterone in Women Naturally?
Have you ever wondered how to increase testosterone in females naturally? Then, you would be glad to know that there are many effective ways to increase your levels of testosterone naturally. Here are some of the foods that can boost your testosterone levels:
1. You must take almonds & pumpkins as they both are a good source of zinc & magnesium.
2. Wild oily fish like salmon or mackerel are also rich in Omega-3 and make a good food option for low testosterone in women.
3. Eggs are also good at boosting your testosterone levels because they are rich in Vitamin B6 and Omega 3.
4. Black beans are also a good option to consider since they are very rich in zinc, vitamins, protein, and more.
Green leafy vegetables and lentils can also boost low testosterone levels and enhance your overall health.
Conclusion
There are several symptoms, causes, and effects of low testosterone in women. Not only this, but testosterone levels fluctuate as the human body ages. Most importantly, if a woman is near to her menopause stage, the levels change a lot. However, if you ever feel like having such symptoms and sudden mood swings, do visit a doctor for a diagnosis and remember to never take any supplements or medications on your own.
Hope this blog you read was insightful. Do you wish to read more blogs on women's empowerment, health, and fitness? If yes, then don't forget to read more of the Voice of a Woman blogs.
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