what does testosterone do in women?

Testosterone in women plays several key roles:

1. Energy and Mood: Testosterone can improve energy levels, reduce stress, and enhance overall mood. Women can experience an increase in energy and a reduction in stress when they have stable testosterone levels 1.

2. Libido and Sexual Function: Testosterone helps boost libido and sexual desire. Low doses are sometimes used to treat issues related to low libido in women. Additionally, postmenopausal women experiencing low sexual desire might benefit from testosterone therapy 2 1.

3. Cognitive and Emotional Effects: It contributes to cognitive changes and emotional regulation. For instance, an increase in testosterone can lead to more competitive behavior and an improved feeling of "effort is good" 3 1.

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     Hormones and Behavior

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     Testosterone Insights

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     Testosterone in Women

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     Testosterone and Behavior

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4. Muscle Mass and Bone Density: It helps in maintaining muscle mass and bone density, which is crucial for overall physical health. Having adequate levels of testosterone can prevent muscle mass loss and support healthy bones 4.

5. Skin and Hair: Higher levels of testosterone can cause oily skin and acne, much like in men. It might also contribute to hair growth, including potential facial hair growth in some cases 1.

Moreover, it's intriguing to note that women typically have more testosterone than estrogen, emphasizing the hormone's significance in female physiology. Most of the testosterone in women is produced by the theca cells in the ovaries 5 4.

It's essential for women considering testosterone therapy to seek professional advice to ensure it's suitable for their health needs and to monitor any potential side effects.