Signs & Symptoms of Testosterone Deficiency in Women

Testosterone is mainly a male hormone and is responsible for normal growth and development of the male sex and reproductive organs. However, the hormone is also produced in females in the adrenal cortex. Deficiency of testosterone in young girls can actually result in delayed puberty, shortness of stature and absence of menstruation. In adult women, the hormone levels naturally decline with age. But issues with insufficient levels usually occur during the five years after menopause.

Early Signs

• Diminished sex drive is an early sign.

  One of the most common early signs of deficient testosterone levels in women is diminishing sex drive or lack of libido. Along with waning sexual desire, women may experience loss of sensitivity in the genitalia and nipples, which may affect their ability to get aroused.

Physical Changes

• Unusually dry skin is an early warning sign.

  Some of the physical changes that may accompany low testosterone levels include abnormally dry skin and brittle scalp hair. Some women also report thinning or loss of pubic hair. Another bodily change may be lack of muscle tone in the bladder and pelvic area resulting in incontinence or urine leakage.

Mental Changes

• Mood changes and lack of vitality and energy are also early warning signs of deficient testosterone in women. Some women also report a lack of mental sharpness as well as a diminished sense of overall well-being.

Complications

• Seek early treatment for relief.

  More serious consequences of deficient testosterone in women include the association with muscle weakness and osteoporosis (bone loss). Women who are experiencing any or all of these symptoms can greatly benefit from evaluation and possible testosterone supplementation. The earlier you alert your gynecologist to possible signs and symptoms, the quicker a diagnosis and treatment protocol can be prescribed.