Testosterone Therapy for Women: An Emerging Standard
Women produce testosterone throughout life, and levels fall by half between the 20s and menopause. In selected patients, low-dose replacement improves libido, energy, and mood.
Why testosterone matters for women
Ovaries and adrenals produce testosterone throughout adult life. Deficiency contributes to persistent low libido (hypoactive sexual desire disorder), reduced energy, and — in some patients — reduced muscle strength and mood resilience.
The 2019 Global Consensus Position Statement on the use of testosterone in women endorses low-dose transdermal testosterone for postmenopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder when other causes have been excluded and estrogen replacement is optimized.
How it is prescribed
Low-dose transdermal testosterone (roughly one-tenth of a male dose) is applied daily. Target free testosterone in the upper female reference range — never supraphysiologic. Baseline and 3-month labs monitor efficacy and rule out virilizing side effects (acne, hair changes).
Discuss whether it is right for you
Ready to discuss hormone therapy? Book an initial hormone therapy consultation or a perimenopause / menopause appointment, or contact us via our booking page.
Frequently asked questions
Is testosterone approved for women in Canada?+
There is no dedicated Health Canada-approved female product; off-label prescribing of a low male dose is standard practice.
Will it make me grow facial hair?+
Not at physiologic doses monitored properly. Dose reduction reverses early virilizing signs.