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Let’s face it, perimenopause and menopause can be rough. It’s a time when your ovaries start to wind down, causing a drop in hormone levels and leading to a host of symptoms that can feel overwhelming.
But here’s something many women in Australia might not know: testosterone isn’t just a “male” hormone. It plays a crucial role in women’s health too, and it could be the key to getting your mojo back.
Testosterone is Not Just a Guy Thing
Surprised? You’re not alone. Most of us think of testosterone as the hormone that fuels men, but women’s bodies produce it too, right alongside oestradiol and progesterone. While the exact role of testosterone in women isn’t completely understood, what we do know is that it starts to gradually decline as we age. And that decline? It could be a big part of why you’re feeling off balance.
Struggling with Low Libido? You’re Not Alone!
Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) is a thing!
One of the most common symptoms of perimenopause and menopause is Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD), which affects about one in three women.
HSDD is more than just a dip in libido; it’s a persistent lack of desire for sex that causes distress.
And let’s be real, when there’s a mismatch in sexual desire between you and your partner, it can lead to serious friction, both in and out of the bedroom.
Common signs of HSDD include:
No interest in sex or sexual fantasies
Little to no desire to masturbate
Reduced sensation during sex
Difficulty reaching orgasm
These issues can snowball, eroding intimacy and putting strain on even the strongest relationships.
Testosterone Therapy: A Game-Changer for Women
Here’s the good news: clinical studies have shown that boosting testosterone levels can be a safe and effective way to manage HSDD in menopausal women. Australia is leading the charge as the first country to offer a licensed 1% testosterone cream specifically for post menopausal women**, and it’s already helping lots of Australian women to reclaim their libido.
But that’s not all. Researchers are also looking into how testosterone therapy might benefit muscle and bone strength, which could be a huge bonus as we age.
It’s Not Just About Hormones - Let’s Look at the Bigger Picture
While testosterone therapy can be incredibly effective, it’s important to remember that HSDD isn’t always just about hormones. Your doctor will need to rule out other causes, such as Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), which can lead to vaginal dryness and painful sex.
A thorough check-up, including a psychosexual health assessment, might uncover other contributing factors. Hormone therapy is powerful, but it won’t solve relationship or life challenges on its own.
Meet Androfeme®: Australia’s Own 1% Testosterone Cream
Androfeme® is a body-identical 1% testosterone cream that’s now available by prescription in Australia. This cream is designed specifically for post menopausal women dealing with HSDD**. It is applied daily to skin in small measured amounts.
Your doctor will do a blood test before you start to ensure your testosterone levels are within normal limits. Follow-up tests are usually done twice a year to ensure that levels are not too high. It might take a few months to notice the full effects, but the wait is often worth it. Just keep in mind, too much testosterone can lead to permanent side effects like voice deepening, acne, and facial hair, so it’s important to stick to the prescribed dose.
Beyond Libido: Could Testosterone Help with Other Symptoms?
Some women using Androfeme® have noticed improvements in other areas, like reduced brain fog, less muscle and joint pain, and even better workout performance. While more research is needed to confirm these benefits, the anecdotal evidence is promising.
Do You Have Questions?
Check out our comprehensive Testosterone for Women FAQs here, and if you have more questions, don't hesitate to get in touch or make an appointment.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re ready to take control of your menopausal journey and explore whether testosterone therapy is right for you, don’t wait. Book an appointment with one of our expert doctors at Clinic 66 or via telehealth at Clinic 66 Online (no matter where you are in Australia). We’re here to help you navigate this transition with a treatment plan that’s as unique as you are.
Contributors; Dr. Karen Osborne and Dr Emma Boulton
**Androfeme is also available to women who are not post menopausal via “off label prescribing”.
This article uses the term “women” to describe individuals born female. Gender-affirming therapy is outside the scope of this article.*
References
- Nappi R et al. (2010). Management of hypoactive sexual desire disorder in women: current and emerging therapies. Int J Womens Health, 2, 167–175.
- Islam, R. M. et al. (2019). Safety and efficacy of testosterone for women: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trial data. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol, 7(10), 754-766.
- Lawley Pharmaceuticals. https://www.lawleypharm.com.au/
- NICE Guideline [NG23]. (2019). Menopause: Diagnosis and management.
- Australian Menopause Society
- British Menopause Society
- Global Consensus Position Statement on the Use of Testosterone Therapy for Women
- Podcast for patients presented by Jean Hailes.