Testosterone: Not Just a “Male Hormone”—Why Women Need It After Menopause

When most people hear the word testosterone, they think “male hormone.” And while it’s true that men produce more testosterone than women, this powerful hormone is far from male-only. In fact, testosterone plays a critical role in women’s health—especially after menopause.

As women transition through perimenopause and into menopause, their production of not just estrogen and progesterone, but also testosterone, declines. While estrogen gets most of the attention, the loss of testosterone has serious consequences—many of which are under-recognized and undertreated.

Let’s talk about why testosterone matters for women—and why restoring it after menopause can be a game-chaxnger for health and quality of life.

GSM is a cluster of symptoms caused by the drop in sex hormones after menopause. It includes vaginal dryness, irritation, painful intercourse, urinary frequency, urgency and incontinence.
Most women are told that estrogen is the answer—and it is, partially. But research and clinical experience show that testosterone is equally important in maintaining the health of urogenital tissues. It helps thicken and moisturize the vaginal walls, supports healthy blood flow and lubrication, and may improve pelvic floor muscle tone and the tissue that surrounds the urethra (where urination happens).

Women with low testosterone often find that even with vaginal estrogen, symptoms persist—until testosterone is added. It’s the missing piece of the puzzle.

It’s not just about desire—testosterone affects the entire sexual experience. Adequate levels are essential for:

• • Libido and mental interest in sex
• • Genital sensitivity and pleasure
• • Arousal and lubrication
• • Orgasmic strength and ease

For many women, declining testosterone leads to a lack of sexual interest or satisfaction—not because they’re “getting older,” but because their biology has shifted.

Restoring testosterone to optimal levels can reignite the spark—not just in body, but in confidence and connection.

Another major concern after menopause is the loss of lean body mass—what we call sarcopenia. This natural decline in muscle accelerates with age and is worsened by hormonal changes. The result? Slower metabolism, increased fat gain, increased blood sugar levels, frailty, and higher risk of falls.

Testosterone is an anabolic hormone, meaning it helps build tissue, particularly muscle. When combined with strength training and adequate protein intake, testosterone helps preserve and rebuild lean body mass, support bone density, and maintain physical independence.

For women over 50, especially those who want to stay strong, toned, and metabolically healthy, testosterone is a vital tool.

Testosterone is not just a male hormone. It’s an essential part of a woman’s hormonal orchestra—and when levels drop after menopause, the effects ripple through nearly every system of the body.

Replacing testosterone after menopause, especially as part of a bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) plan, can:

• • Relieve urogenital symptoms
• • Enhance sexual responsiveness
• • Support muscle and bone health
• • Boost energy, mood, and vitality

It’s time to drop the stigma and start the conversation. If you’re in or past menopause and feeling the effects of low testosterone, talk to a hormone-literate healthcare provider about testing and treatment.

You deserve to feel strong, sensual, and supported at every stage of life.