What is testosterone therapy?
Testosterone therapy involves using small doses of the hormone testosterone to treat certain symptoms in women—especially after menopause. While testosterone is often thought of as a “male hormone,” it is also naturally produced in women, just in smaller amounts.
In some women, particularly after menopause, testosterone levels can fall, which may affect sexual desire, energy levels, and mood.
Who might benefit from testosterone therapy?
Testosterone therapy may be offered to women who have low sexual desire (low libido) that:
- Causes distress or affects quality of life
- Does not improve with lifestyle changes or standard HRT alone
It may also be considered for women with:
- Surgical menopause (after ovary removal)
- Fatigue, low mood, or brain fog—although these are not the main reasons it’s prescribed
Testosterone therapy is not typically recommended for women without low libido or outside of these contexts.
How is testosterone therapy given?
Testosterone for women is usually given as a:
- Gel (applied to the skin—often on the thigh, lower abdomen, or buttocks)
- Occasionally as a cream
Doses are much lower than in men. It’s important to use a formulation suitable for women, and dosing should be carefully monitored.
Benefits of testosterone therapy
In suitable patients, testosterone may:
- Improve sexual desire
- Enhance orgasm and sexual satisfaction
- Help with energy levels and mood in some women
Effects usually appear after a few weeks to months of consistent use.
Possible side effects
Side effects are uncommon when used at the correct dose, but can include:
- Unwanted hair growth (usually mild)
- Acne or oily skin
- Scalp hair thinning
- Mood changes (rare)
- Voice deepening or clitoral enlargement (very rare and usually only with high doses)
Side effects can usually be avoided by using the correct dose and regular monitoring.
Monitoring Testosterone Therapy
If you are receiving testosterone as part of your HRT regimen, regular monitoring is important to ensure both safety and effectiveness.
What to Expect:
- Regular Blood Tests: Blood tests are needed to monitor your testosterone levels and ensure they remain in range.
- Routine Reviews: Your treatment should be reviewed at 3 and 6 months to assess its effectiveness and check for any side effects. After this we advise yearly follow up and blood checks
- Dose Adjustments: Your doctor may adjust your dosage based on your symptoms and blood test results to maintain optimal balance.
- Off-Label Use: While testosterone is not currently licensed for women in many countries, it can still be prescribed off-label by specialists in line with medical guidelines. This is a common practice backed by clinical evidence for symptom relief and well-being.
Is testosterone a replacement for HRT?
No. Testosterone therapy is not a substitute for oestrogen or progesterone HRT. It’s often used alongside HRT for women who still experience low libido despite standard treatment.
Talk to a doctor if:
- You’re experiencing low sexual desire that affects your wellbeing
- You want to explore treatment options after menopause
- You’re unsure whether testosterone might be right for you
Testosterone therapy can be a helpful option for some women, especially when carefully prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional. The goal is to help you feel more like yourself again—with a balanced, safe, and personalised approach.
At WWWW, we provide expert-led testosterone therapy as part of your HRT plan, with regular monitoring to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Book a consultation to learn more about how testosterone therapy could support your hormonal health.