Low Testosterone in Women: Understanding the Causes and Solutions
When you hear the word "testosterone," do you immediately picture muscular physique, competition, and perhaps agression? If so, you're not alone. Testosterone has long been associated with male characteristics, but it is actually a hormone that plays a vital role in women's health.
Testosterone, an androgen, contributes to various aspects of women's well-being, including sexual desire, arousal, bone density, immunity, and muscle mass. Additionally, it has a significant impact on mood, energy levels, and overall vitality.
Just like any other hormone, maintaining a balance with other sex hormones is crucial for optimal health. When testosterone levels dip too low, it can give rise to a range of issues, such as fatigue, diminished interest in sex, and more.
In this article, we will delve into the causes and solutions for low testosterone in women, as well as the symptoms to be aware of.
Identifying Signs and Symptoms of Low Testosterone in Women
Testosterone affects various systems and functions in the body due to the presence of androgen receptors in almost all tissues. This widespread influence can make it challenging to pinpoint low testosterone as the underlying cause of specific symptoms.
Nevertheless, the following are commonly observed signs and symptoms associated with low testosterone in women:
Decreased sexual desire and satisfaction
Difficulty achieving orgasm
Feelings of anxiety or depression
Physical fatigue
Loss of bone density and muscle strength
Joint pain
Cognitive changes
Insomnia
Dry skin and thinning hair
Weight gain
Decreased muscle mass
Lack of motivation
Easy susceptibility to crying
Given that many of these symptoms can also be attributed to other conditions, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider if you experience any of them. They can assist in determining if low testosterone is the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Causes of Low Testosterone in Women
There are several causes of low testosterone in women. The primary reason is that it naturally declines starting in the mid to late 30s and continues later in life.
Testosterone is made in the ovaries, adrenal glands, and fat cells. As we age, the ovaries produce less and less testosterone. But other things can lead to low testosterone levels, including:
Impaired production of or reduced ability to convert testosterone precursors like dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). Precursors are hormones the body uses to make other hormones. DHEA is a common one, and can be used as a supplement to increase testosterone levels.
Poor adrenal gland function. The adrenal glands produce DHEA, so if they're not functioning correctly, DHEA levels can be low. This can be due to HPA-axis dysregulation (aka adrenal fatigue) or adrenal insufficiency.
Surgically induced menopause.
Certain medications, especially related to taking the birth control pill.
Exploring the Relationship Between Low Testosterone and Inflammation
The decline in estrogen levels during menopause is associated with heightened inflammation, which partly explains why women face a greater risk of chronic diseases during this stage. However, testosterone may also have a role to play in inflammation.
While most studies on this topic focus on men, it is valuable to examine what we currently know about the connection between testosterone and inflammation in men to gain insights into its potential implications for women. Ideally, studies specific to women would provide the most comprehensive understanding, but we must work with the available information.
One study discovered a correlation between low testosterone levels and elevated markers of inflammation, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). TNF-alpha is involved in various inflammatory conditions, including Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Conversely, testosterone may have anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the expression of inflammatory molecules.
Low testosterone levels have been linked to conditions like metabolic syndrome (a group of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes), heart disease, and increased mortality. Inflammation could be one contributing factor to these associations.
Testosterone also plays a role in regulating fat tissue and blood sugar metabolism. Consequently, when testosterone levels are low, these functions can be disrupted. Therefore, when patients express concerns about weight gain or difficulties losing weight, checking testosterone levels becomes an important consideration.
While further research specific to women is warranted, the available evidence suggests that testosterone may have a complex relationship with inflammation, impacting various aspects of health and disease.
The Relationship Between Testosterone Levels and Adrenal Gland Function
As mentioned earlier, the adrenal glands play a significant role in testosterone production, establishing a clear connection between adrenal gland function and testosterone levels.
Located on top of the kidneys, the adrenal glands are small but mighty. They produce various hormones, including DHEA, cortisol, epinephrine, and norepinephrine. These hormones are involved in critical functions such as stress response, energy production, inflammation regulation, anti-aging processes, and blood sugar regulation.
Approximately 25 percent of androgen production occurs within the adrenal glands, with the majority of DHEA-S (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) synthesized there. DHEA and DHEA-S can be converted into testosterone with the assistance of enzymes, and they can also be transformed into estrogen.
Hence, maintaining healthy adrenal gland function is essential for optimal testosterone levels. When the ovaries cease hormone production, the adrenal glands take on the responsibility of producing estrogen and testosterone.
Adrenal Fatigue and its Impact on Testosterone Levels
Adrenal gland function can affect testosterone levels in two primary ways:
Primary Adrenal Insufficiency (Addison's disease): This condition occurs when the body fails to produce sufficient adrenal hormones. Insufficient DHEA levels can result in low testosterone levels.
"Adrenal fatigue" or HPA-axis dysregulation: This condition, more accurately referred to as HPA-axis dysregulation, involves a lack of synchronization between the adrenal glands and the brain, leading to disruptions in hormone production and utilization. It is important to note that this condition does not imply complete exhaustion of the adrenals but rather suboptimal functioning.
When chronic stress persists without respite, the adrenals are constantly engaged. The body continues to release cortisol and other hormones in an attempt to maintain cortisol production. Over time, the production of all hormones, including DHEA, diminishes, consequently impacting testosterone production. While this may feel like a betrayal by the body, it is actually the body's mechanism to prevent excessive production of the pro-aging hormone, cortisol.
Maintaining a healthy balance in adrenal gland function is vital for optimal testosterone levels. Chronic stress and HPA-axis dysregulation can influence testosterone production, underscoring the importance of addressing stress and supporting adrenal health to maintain hormonal balance.
Symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue
HPA-axis dysregulation, often misdiagnosed due to its resemblance to other conditions, manifests through various common symptoms, including:
Fatigue
Cognitive difficulties (brain fog)
Insomnia
Anxiety
Depression
Blood sugar imbalances
Low blood pressure or feeling lightheaded upon standing up quickly (orthostatic hypotension)
Cravings for salty or high-fat foods
Decreased libido
It is important to note that many of these symptoms are also prevalent in individuals with low testosterone. Therefore, seeking the guidance of a healthcare practitioner who comprehends HPA-axis dysregulation is crucial if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
Natural Approaches to Boosting Testosterone Levels
Support your adrenals:
Prioritize getting sufficient sleep every night, as proper rest is crucial for adrenal health. Consider incorporating adrenal-supportive herbs like ashwagandha or licorice root into your routine, as they can help the body manage stress. To further aid your adrenal and hormone health, explore the Nourish Adrenals protocol, which includes these supportive herbs and more.
Engage in regular exercise:
Physical activity plays a significant role in regulating hormones and promoting overall well-being. Studies have shown that consistent exercise, particularly strength training, can increase testosterone levels. If you are currently dealing with adrenal fatigue, it's important to approach exercise gradually and avoid overexertion. Start slowly and gradually increase intensity and duration over time.
Zinc Supplementation:
Zinc is a vital mineral for testosterone production. Incorporate zinc-rich foods into your diet, such as pumpkin seeds, oysters, beef, chicken, and beans. If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet and don't consume meat or seafood, consider supplementing with zinc. However, remember to maintain a balance by also incorporating copper into your diet or supplementation.
Optimize your diet:
A nutrient-dense diet is essential for supporting adrenal and hormone health. Focus on including ample healthy fats like avocados, olive oil, coconut oil, and nuts and seeds. Make vegetables a significant portion of your meals, aiming for at least half of your plate to consist of vegetables. Include a moderate amount of fruit and choose high-quality sources of protein.
The Takeaway
Low testosterone in women is a prevalent issue that often goes unnoticed. If you identify with any of the symptoms discussed, it is important to undergo testing to confirm the diagnosis. While DHEA supplementation may offer potential benefits, it is crucial to work closely with a healthcare practitioner to determine the appropriate dosage for your specific needs.
Additionally, there are numerous natural approaches to support optimal hormone health. Prioritizing sufficient sleep, engaging in regular exercise, and adopting a nutrient-dense diet are all integral components of the holistic puzzle.