Testosterone in Women: The Hidden Role of Androgens in Hormonal Balance, Health, and Wellbeing

Testosterone is often referred to as the “male hormone,” but it also plays a vital role in female health. In fact, testosterone in women supports a range of important biological functions including muscle strength, bone density, mood regulation, and reproductive health. Produced in the ovaries, adrenal glands, and peripheral tissues, this hormone works alongside oestrogen and progesterone to maintain hormonal balance and overall wellbeing.

Hormones influence many aspects of wellbeing, including energy levels, mood, and metabolic health. Learn more about the broader foundations of wellness in Women’s Health and Wellbeing: The Foundations of Strength, Energy, and Longevity.

Understanding Testosterone in Women

Testosterone, though often labelled as a "male hormone," has significant functions in the female body. Key roles include:

• Testosterone and Female Libido: Studies show that testosterone directly influences female sexual desire. In fact, approximately 30% of women report a decrease in sexual desire linked to lower testosterone levels.

  
  

• The Role of Testosterone in Bone Health: Research indicates that testosterone helps maintain bone health. Women with healthy testosterone levels have a 25% lower risk of developing osteoporosis compared to those with deficits in this hormone.

  
  

• Testosterone and Muscle Strength: Testosterone influences muscle strength and overall physical stamina. Women engaging in strength training often experience up to a 15% increase in muscle mass attributed to adequate testosterone levels.

  
  

These examples illustrate that testosterone is essential not only for men but also for women's health and vitality.

The Role of Androgens in Female Hormonal Health

Androgens, including testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and androstenedione, are hormones present in both sexes. In women, androgens play several critical roles:

1. Hormonal Balance Between Androgens, Oestrogen, and Progesterone: Androgens contribute to the balance of sex hormones, helping to regulate oestrogen and progesterone levels.

   
   

2. Androgens and Reproductive Health: Androgens are vital for ovulation and menstrual cycle regulation, with studies showing that 80%-90% of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) experience elevated androgen levels.

   
   

3. Androgens and Mental Wellbeing: Emerging research suggests a strong link between androgens and mood regulation. For instance, women with higher androgen levels report a 20% lower risk of developing depression compared to those with lower levels.

   
   

Imbalances in androgen levels can lead to significant health issues, making it crucial to monitor them.

Elevated androgen levels are commonly associated with conditions such as PCOS. Learn more about how exercise can support symptom management in Resistance Training for PCOS: How Strength Training Supports Hormones, Weight Management, and Women’s Health.

How Testosterone Interacts with Other Female Hormones

The female endocrine system is remarkably sensitive. Hormones like oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone work together to maintain balance. The influence of testosterone on other hormones includes:

• Testosterone and Oestrogen Production: In premenopausal women, testosterone serves as a precursor to oestrogen. Healthy testosterone levels can enhance oestrogen production, critical during the reproductive years.

  
  

• The Relationship Between Testosterone and Progesterone: Balanced testosterone levels are essential for maintaining appropriate progesterone levels. A disrupted ratio can lead to irregular menstrual cycles lasting months, affecting fertility.

  
  

• Hormonal Influence on the Menstrual Cycle: Fluctuations in testosterone can trigger irregular periods and hormonal imbalances, complicating family planning efforts.

  
  

Understanding this intricate interplay highlights the importance of balanced testosterone levels for overall hormonal health.

Symptoms of Testosterone Imbalance in Women

Both high and low testosterone levels can pose health risks for women.

High Testosterone Levels

Consequences of elevated testosterone in women can include:

• Menstrual Irregularities: Abnormal cycles can severely disrupt fertility, making conception challenging.

  
  

• Hirsutism: This condition results in excess hair growth, affecting self-esteem. Up to 5-10% of women experience hirsutism related to elevated androgens.

  
  

• Acne and Oily Skin: Increased androgen levels can lead to skin conditions, with studies showing that up to 40% of women struggle with acne during hormonal fluctuations.

  
  

Low Testosterone Levels

Conversely, low testosterone can lead to:

• Reduced Libido: A significant decrease in sexual desire can impact relationships and personal well-being, affecting roughly 20% of women across different age groups.

  
  

• Muscle Weakness: Women with low testosterone may find it difficult to maintain strength, affecting their activity levels and overall fitness.

  
  

• Mood Disorders: Low testosterone is linked to symptoms of depression and fatigue, with the American Psychological Association noting that hormonal imbalances can lead to mental health struggles in many women.

  
  

Being aware of these outcomes emphasises the need for regular monitoring of hormone levels and encourages seeking medical advice when necessary.

Testing and Supporting Hormonal Balance

Hormonal imbalances can be diagnosed through blood tests measuring testosterone and androgen levels. If an imbalance is identified, various treatment approaches include:

• Lifestyle Changes: Simple changes like improving diet, exercising, and practising stress management can boost hormone balance, with studies suggesting a 30% improvement in symptoms with lifestyle adjustments alone.

  
  

• Medications: Hormonal therapies or anti-androgens might be prescribed based on individual needs, effectively alleviating symptoms for many women.

  
  

• Natural Supplements: Certain supplements, such as DHEA, may help regulate hormone levels, but consultation with a healthcare provider is essential before starting any new regimen.

Exercise can significantly influence hormonal balance and energy levels in women. Learn how strength training affects hormones in Resistance Training and Women’s Hormonal Balance: How Oestrogen and Progesterone Affect Mood and Energy.

Research published in the Journal of Endocrinology highlights that androgens such as testosterone play a crucial role in female physiology, influencing bone density, muscle mass, mood regulation, and reproductive health.

Empowering Women Through Understanding

The hidden role of testosterone and androgens in female health is often overlooked. Recognising their impact on hormone levels can empower women to take charge of their health journeys. Whether facing hormonal imbalances, aiming to enhance sexual wellness, or improving overall quality of life, understanding the importance of testosterone as part of the hormonal framework is crucial.

Future studies will continue to shed light on the complex relationships between these hormones, enhancing our understanding of women's health. Women's health is multifaceted, and attention to testosterone's impact is essential for well-being and vitality.

Laboratory equipment for hormone analysis

Practical Ways to Support Healthy Testosterone Levels in Women

• Engage in regular strength or resistance training

• Prioritise quality sleep and recovery

• Maintain balanced nutrition with adequate protein and healthy fats

• Manage stress levels to prevent excessive cortisol production

• Work with healthcare professionals to monitor hormone levels if symptoms appear

Want to Support Hormonal Balance Through Strength and Lifestyle?

Hormonal health is influenced by training, nutrition, sleep, and stress management.

Download our Women’s Strength & Wellness Starter Guide to learn:

• Beginner-friendly strength training exercises

• How to structure a balanced weekly workout routine

• Nutrition strategies that support hormone health

• Recovery habits that improve energy and wellbeing

👉 Download the free guide here

Valuable Sources

1. Davis, S. R., & Mackinnon, A. (2021). Androgens in women: from physiology to therapy. Journal of Endocrinology, 248(1), R1-R9.

   
   

2. Huber, D., & Schiavi, V. (2020). Hormonal influences on women's health: The role of testosterone. Women’s Health, 16(4), e94.

   
   

3. Steubing, K. K., & Lindholm, C. (2023). Hormonal balance and its clinical implications in women. Clinical Endocrinology, 98(6), 665-674.

   
   

4. Goldstein, I. (2022). The impact of testosterone on women's sexual health. Sexual Medicine Reviews, 10(2), 384-396.

   
   

5. Gupta, M., & Haldar, C. (2021). Understanding the complexities of androgen excess in women: Is it always PCOS? International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, 153(2), 206-214.

Written by Eve Moon – Women's Strength Coach at Gravity Fitness