Why Are So Many Women on Testosterone?

Author: AlphaMD
Why Are So Many Women on Testosterone?

When most people hear "testosterone," they think of men—muscle, aggression, libido. But what’s less commonly discussed is the vital role testosterone plays in women’s health—and why more women than ever are turning to testosterone therapy as part of their wellness journey.

So what’s behind the rise in female testosterone use? Let’s break it down.

🧬 Yes, Women Naturally Produce Testosterone

Although women have much lower testosterone levels than men, it’s still a critical hormone in the female body. Produced primarily in the ovaries and adrenal glands, testosterone helps regulate:

  • Sex drive (libido)
  • Energy levels
  • Mood stability
  • Bone density
  • Lean muscle mass
  • Cognitive function

When levels drop—due to age, hormonal shifts, or surgical menopause—many women begin to notice changes that feel like they’re "off," even if basic labs appear "normal."

📉 Why Would a Woman Have Low Testosterone?

There are several reasons why a woman’s testosterone might fall below optimal levels:

  • Perimenopause and menopause
  • Hysterectomy or oophorectomy (removal of ovaries)
  • Chronic stress or adrenal fatigue
  • Birth control use or long-term hormonal contraceptive suppression
  • Underlying hormonal imbalance or endocrine disorder

Even healthy women in their 30s and 40s can experience gradual declines—especially if they’ve been under intense physical, emotional, or professional stress.

💊 What Is Female Testosterone Therapy?

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for women involves prescribing very low, carefully controlled doses of bioidentical testosterone—typically in cream, gel, or pellet form—to help restore hormonal balance and relieve symptoms.

Unlike male TRT, which focuses on restoring higher levels, female testosterone therapy aims for subtle, supportive enhancement—just enough to restore vitality without triggering masculinizing side effects.

✅ The Benefits Women Are Reporting

Many women on testosterone therapy report improvements in:

  • Sexual desire and function
  • Mood and emotional resilience
  • Energy and mental clarity
  • Fat loss and muscle tone
  • Motivation and drive

For women who’ve tried antidepressants, thyroid meds, or hormone replacements without success, testosterone therapy can be the missing piece.

“I felt like myself again. More energy, more interest in intimacy, and no more foggy brain,” says one AlphaMD patient in her 40s.

⚖️ What About Safety?

Like any medical treatment, testosterone therapy for women must be prescribed and monitored by an experienced provider. Side effects from poorly managed testosterone use can include:

  • Acne or oily skin
  • Hair growth in unwanted areas
  • Voice changes (rare, and typically at high doses)
  • Mood swings or irritability

But under expert guidance and with the right dosing strategy, these risks can be minimized or avoided entirely.

👩‍⚕️ AlphaMD’s Perspective

At AlphaMD, we’re seeing more women seek answers beyond “just live with it.” They’re tired of feeling ignored, dismissed, or told that everything is “normal” when they know something isn’t right.

Our approach is data-driven, compassionate, and tailored to each patient—because hormone optimization is not just for men. It’s about helping everyone feel better, move better, and live stronger.

Curious if testosterone therapy might be right for you?
Schedule a consultation with an AlphaMD provider today »

Have Questions?

Ask us about TRT, medical weightloss, ED, or other men's health topics.

Ask Now

People are asking...

Do you think that most mental health issues are contra indications for starting TRT? Such as depression and bipolar for example? Or have you seen peop...

For us, we have had a significant number of patients join us with slight anxiety or depression start TRT and find that those mental health issues improved or went away for them. It is likely that it w... See Full Answer

I've been on TRT for 1.5 years and have not been able to figure out why it has caused ED. Estrogen is where it should be. I'm not on excess T. Not on ...

The melanocortin receptor pathway is a relatively newly discovered mechanism for both erectile function and libido. It is entirely separate from traditional hormonal pathways previously thought to be ... See Full Answer

Would a person that has low test and takes trt build more or less muscle than an average person that doesn’t take anything?...

They would generally build the same amount of muscle, assuming that "average person" was not also a low Testosterone individual. This is because the primary goal of TRT is to get you back to where you... See Full Answer

Get $30 off your first month’s order

Enter your email address now to receive $30 off your first month’s cost, other discounts, and additional information about TRT.

Legal Disclaimer

This website is a repository of publicly available information and is not intended to form a physician-patient relationship with any individual. The content of this website is for informational purposes only. The information presented on this website is not intended to take the place of your personal physician's advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Discuss this information with your own physician or healthcare provider to determine what is right for you. All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. The information contained herein is presented in summary form only and intended to provide broad consumer understanding and knowledge. The information should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of a visit, phone or telemedicine call, consultation or advice of your physician or other healthcare provider. Only a qualified physician in your state can determine if you qualify for and should undertake treatment.