Testosterone: Not Just a Man’s Hormone
For years, testosterone therapy has been known as the ‘male hormone’. Fear of bulking muscle, growing unwanted chin hair, and “back-ne” has always pushed women away from discussing testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Although these side effects are possible at high and unmonitored doses, it is less likely when microdosing under the supervision of a medical professional utilizing a personalized approach.
Fun Fact: While women produce significantly less testosterone than men—approximately 1/10 to 1/20 of male levels—this hormone contributes to numerous physiological functions beyond simply reproductive health. Typical testosterone levels for females range from the teens to low 20’s, when a woman is on TRT, optimized levels should range between 80 - 100. This leaves a HUGE gap between what most traditional providers will say is ‘normal’ and what is truly optimized.
How do we know we aren’t optimized?
Unfortunately, for decades hormonal therapy has been displayed in a very negative and poor light, providing inaccurate and skewed data as a result of poor studies. Men are left thinking that testosterone is something needed only if they desire to have a Terminator physique, while women simply just don’t even have the acknowledgement that we do in fact product testosterone. Women and men alike are expected to simply accept their levels in “normal range” as part of a “normal part of aging” based on traditional guidelines, despite feeling utterly terribly. Symptoms can begin as early as mid-30s and last through menopause – that leaves patients feeling terrible for almost a third of their lives! So what do these symptoms look like?
- Persistent fatigue despite adequate rest
- Decreased muscle strength and increased difficulty maintaining lean body mass despite adequate gym regimens
- Reduced bone density despite strength training
- Diminished sexual desire and satisfaction
- Vaginal dryness/erectile dysfunction despite desire
- Memory loss
- Mood changes including increased irritability or depression, tension and anxiety
- Cognitive challenges including brain fog or reduced mental sharpness
- Sleep disturbances (waking anxious, or unable to fall/stay asleep that is new)
Sounding familiar? Keep reading…
So how do we optimize?
Well first, we draw labs to measure a variety of electrolyte and hormones, which also allows us to rule out some common causes of disruption, as well as an evaluation and assessment of symptoms and medical history. If you haven’t started with lifestyle modifications yet, research has consistently shown that the following can significantly influence testosterone production:
Regular resistance training
7-9 hours of consistently timed sleep
Stress management (did you know that chronic stress elevates cortisol levels which suppress testosterone production
0.8-1.0g per kg of body weight of protein daily at minimum
Sufficient intake of healthy, monounsaturated fats
When medical supplementation is needed, there are many safe options. While most are familiar with IM (intramuscular) injection of testosterone or a transdermal patch/gel, subcutaneous injection has been found to be more comfortable and just as effective, with lower side effects. Rather than injecting in the muscle, it can be injected just underneath the skin for slower, more consistent absorption, leaving fewer high’s and low’s as well as increased compliance due to ease of use. Additionally, some oral supplements may be needed as well to optimize absorption and decrease side effects and risks.
When testosterone levels are optimized for both men and women; energy, muscle mass, bone density, heart health, mood, and overall vitality improve enormously. The key to successful optimization lies in individualized assessment, comprehensive lifestyle approaches, and, when necessary, carefully monitored medical interventions. As research continues to evolve in this field, women benefit from working with knowledgeable healthcare providers who understand the nuances of female hormonal health. Remember that "optimization" means achieving appropriate female-range levels—not male levels—and should always prioritize overall hormonal balance and well-being.
To get the conversation started, book a wellness consultation at Aiyana Wellness. All labs and deep interpretation with a personalized conversation are all done in-house, and can be done virtually if needed as well. Our goal is to make it easy, approachable, and simple for you to get optimization.
