Is your hair starting to fall out (more than usual)? Maybe you’re experiencing hot flashes or mood swings. You might not realize it, but your symptoms could point to low testosterone. Though most people associate testosterone as the “male” hormone, it’s actually a hormone in women as well. Low testosterone in women can have as much of an impact as high testosterone levels.
Understanding the common signs of low testosterone can ensure you get the help you need.
Keep reading to discover the top indicators of hormone imbalances in women today.
Signs of Low Testosterone
First, let’s discuss the signs of low testosterone in women.
There are a few different reasons you might develop low testosterone, including:
- Using certain medications
- Ovarian failure (caused by eating disorders, menopause, radiation treatment, and chemotherapy)
- Tumors on certain glands
- Long-term use of birth control methods (including oral birth control pills)
Age can impact testosterone production in women as well. By the time a woman is 40, her androgen levels could decrease by half.
Your adrenal glands and ovaries are responsible for producing testosterone. When your hormones are at a normal level, they can regulate your mood. They’re also responsible for keeping your reproductive tissues and bones healthy.
Testosterone can also decrease body fat and increases body mass. It could even support your cardiovascular health.
Too little testosterone in women, however, can cause:
- Dry skin
- Thinning hair
- Lost muscle mass
- Increased body fat
- Mood swings (including increased anxiety)
- Sexual dysfunction
- Reduced sex drive
- Bone loss
- Reduced strength
If you experience these symptoms of low testosterone, consider scheduling an appointment with your doctor.
Signs of High Testosterone
High testosterone levels can impact your overall health, too.
Many women who have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormone disorder, have too much testosterone in their blood.
An adrenal disorder can also cause an increase in testosterone levels.
Signs of high testosterone levels include:
- Smaller breast size
- Enlarged clitoris
- Menstrual irregularities
- Weight gain
- Excess acne
- Abnormal hair growth throughout the body
- A deeper voice
- Male pattern baldness
If you’re post-menopausal, you might experience insulin resistance as well.
Treatment Options
There are a few homeopathic options you can use to reduce your testosterone levels.
For example, you can consume licorice. Licorice might reduce your testosterone when consumed daily.
Green tea is able to block testosterone from converting into the DHT hormone. You can also drink spearmint tea, which decreases levels of free testosterone.
Your doctor might also suggest testosterone injections or pellets. Some physicians prefer alternative therapies, including DHEA supplementation and lifestyle changes.
For example, a doctor might suggest you improve your diet, get enough sleep, and manage your stress levels. Sex therapy is common as well.
Watch the Drop: 5 Signs of Low Testosterone in Women
Though low testosterone in women is common, you don’t have to live with it. Instead, keep an eye out for these symptoms. If they sound familiar, consider consulting a physician about your options.
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