From mood swings to physical changes, hormones play a vital role in our overall health, and even minor imbalances can cause significant changes.

During his recent appearance on the podcast ‘How to Fail with Elizabeth – Part 1‘, Hollywood actress Kate Winslet revealed that sometimes women experience a significant drop in libido, and this may be due to testosterone levels.

Winslet, 48, said many people are unaware that women also produce testosterone, and when its level decreases, it can affect their sexual desire.

She said, “A lot of people don’t know this, but women have testosterone in their bodies, and when it’s gone – like the eggs – it’s gone. Once it’s gone, you have to replace it, and that’s something that can be done. You’ll feel sexy again. I know that.”

His candid comments may leave you curious about testosterone replacement therapy. What exactly is it, and is it safe?

Testosterone and its effect on the body

“Testosterone is a hormone that is produced in the testes of men and in smaller amounts in the ovaries and adrenal glands of women. It plays a vital role in the development of male reproductive tissues, such as the testes and prostate, and is required to promote secondary sexual characteristics,” explains Dr Mahesh DM, consultant endocrinologist at Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru. india today,

The doctor further explains that testosterone also influences a variety of bodily processes, including the regulation of libido, mood, and energy levels, as well as the maintenance of overall health and well-being.

“Its levels can significantly impact physical performance, cognitive function, and emotional stability, making it an important hormone for both men and women,” says Dr. Mahesh D.M.

Furthermore, Dr Rakesh Kumar Prasad, Consultant Endocrinologist and Diabetes Specialist, Fortis Hospital, Noida, says that testosterone has different roles at different stages of life.

• In the developmental stage of the fetus, it triggers the development of the male’s internal and external reproductive organs.
• During puberty, it is responsible for the growth of height, body and pubic hair, growth of the penis, testes and prostate gland and an increase in sex drive, hemoglobin levels, muscle mass and strength.
• Aggression and related behaviors are also controlled by testosterone.
• It has the same role in women as it does in men, determining sexual desire and fertility, producing new blood cells, supporting cognitive health and function, and strengthening muscles and bones.

In addition, Dr. Prasad explains that testosterone levels in women decline with age. Other hormones, such as estrogen, also decline over time, especially when menopause begins.

“Libido in both sexes is also determined by testosterone. In women, testosterone is an important hormone that is often overlooked,” says the doctor.

This decrease in testosterone levels can lead to a decrease in muscle mass and strength, an increase in body fat, and a decrease in bone density, which may increase the risk of osteoporosis.

Low testosterone levels can lead to mood swings, irritability, and an increased risk of depression and anxiety. In addition, cognitive functions such as memory and concentration may also be affected.

Additionally, Dr. Mahesh DM tells us that the potential impact of decreased testosterone levels on a man’s sexual desire is of great interest.

“This decline can indeed affect libido. It’s worth noting that such effects are not limited to men; women may also experience changes in sexual desire as a result of low testosterone levels. The relationship between hormone levels and sexual function is complex, and variations in testosterone can reduce sexual interest and arousal in both sexes,” he says.

What is testosterone replacement therapy?

In simple terms, testosterone replacement therapy is a treatment that aims to restore testosterone levels in the body.

Dr. Mahesh DM says there is growing interest in the use of testosterone therapy to boost libido in women, as a decrease in sexual desire is often caused by hormonal imbalances, menopause, or other health conditions.

They add, “Although some studies suggest that testosterone therapy may positively impact sexual desire in women, it is important for individuals to consult health professionals to assess the appropriateness and safety of such treatment based on their specific health profile and needs.”

Dr. Prasad agrees, “Women treated with intramuscular estrogen and testosterone improve sexually motivated behavior (desire, fantasy, and arousal) and increase rates of intercourse and orgasm. Testosterone levels must be restored to at least the upper end of the normal reproductive range for this to be effective in young women.”

Talking about treatment, it starts with a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s medical history, symptoms and hormone levels through blood tests.

If testosterone deficiency is confirmed, therapy is initiated, which may be given via injections, patches, gels or pills, depending on the individual’s needs and preferences.

Now, in addition to increasing libido, testosterone replacement therapy also has other benefits, such as improved mood, increased muscle mass, and better overall energy levels, which contribute to improved quality of life.

But there are risks, too

• Increased levels of testosterone can cause problems such as acne and oily skin, increased hair growth on the face and body, deepening of the voice, changes in body odor, changes in menstrual cycles, enlargement of the clitoris, and breast atrophy.
• It may cause increases in muscle mass and strength, redistribution of body fat, headaches, changes in skin color or texture, and mood changes including aggression or irritability.
• In addition, some more serious side effects of high testosterone may include cardiovascular problems, such as heart attack and stroke, liver problems, including liver damage or disease, an increased risk of blood clots, and infertility due to suppressed ovulation.

Should you go for it?

“Before considering testosterone therapy for women, it is important to answer essential questions regarding its suitability and potential benefits and side effects,” says Dr. Mahesh D.M.

On the other hand, Dr. Prasad says, “Despite its side effects, testosterone therapy has shown a clear role in the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). Moreover, one of the major organs on which testosterone has a beneficial effect is the central nervous system. Certain biochemical reactions in the brain that have been linked to Alzheimer’s disease are reversed by the use of testosterone in some women.”

The doctor said there is growing evidence supporting the use of personalized doses of testosterone for sexual function, osteoporosis prevention and breast protection.