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9 Proven Low Testosterone Symptoms in Women

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Testosterone, the male sexual hormone, is undoubtedly found in men, but a tiny amount is also synthesized in women. To put it into perspective, men synthesize about 40-1000 ng/dl of testosterone; in women, testosterone levels lie in the 9-55 ng/dl range. Therefore, testosterone does not give women any male characteristics nor contribute to a more muscular build or a hoarse voice.However, healthy levels of testosterone released in women play an essential role in promoting libido, stimulating bone growth and development, and promoting ovarian health. While no known disease conditions are associated with low levels of testosterone in women, it may lead to a few significant changes in women, such as mood swings and decreased libido, and may even cause depression.Low testosterone levels in women may result from adrenal insufficiency or the surgical removal of ovaries that secrete testosterone. It may also be caused due to early menopause in women. If you find yourself or women around you feeling low, agitated, or depressed for months together, it is quite possible that low testosterone levels are to be blamed for it. Read more about the low testosterone symptoms in women, as mentioned in this article.

What are the 9 proven low testosterone symptoms in women?

Low testosterone levels may contribute to significant changes in the body and mind of a woman. Here are a few noteworthy symptoms observed as the levels of testosterone drop.

1. Decreased sexual fantasies

As expected, since testosterone plays a vital role in the stimulation of female hormones, the desire to be sexual or think about intercourse decreases. Women feel moody and do not desire to be aroused, nor are they aroused by any gesture.

Also, Read: Dear Men! Are You Aware of These Sexual Problems And Dysfunctions?

2. Decreased performance

The sexual drive in women is also affected by low levels of testosterone. Even if, by some grace, women push themselves to perform, achieving an orgasm might be brutal under conditions of improper hormonal balance.

3. Fatigue

Do you quickly get tired? It might be your body showing you some low testosterone symptoms. Walking a short distance and climbing a short flight of stairs may also seem like an arduous task with exhaustive fatigue. Women will feel quickly tired with the simplest of chores, as seen in postmenopausal women.

Also Read: 5 Reasons Why You Always Feel Tired, Plus Tips to Boost Your Energy

4. Reduced concentration

Lack of attention and reduced focus are side effects of low testosterone levels. There may be a rise in cortisol levels that prevent the circulation of testosterone levels in the blood.

5. Muscle weakness

Changes in the hormonal balance can lead to muscle fatigue and weakness. You may not feel the urge to perform simple tasks and may have muscle spasms and muscle aches. When combined with other symptoms mentioned here, low testosterone levels are likely responsible for this.

6. Pain in the joints

Testosterone is involved in the natural growth and development of bones. Hence, in the case of low testosterone, pain may result in the joints of the knees, the shoulder, and even the finger joints.

Also Read: Painful Joints: Understanding Bursitis

7. Reduced vaginal lubrication

Another severe symptom of lowered testosterone levels is the changes in the women's bodies while engaging in sexual acts. Several reports state a reduced or close to no secretion from the vagina. This makes it difficult to perform and may cause intense pain, which can add to the feeling of not wanting to perform.

8. Thinning hair

This is seen in both men as well as women. Thin and brittle hair that easily breaks, along with a depressed mood and fatigue, are signs of low testosterone levels in women.

9. Depressed mood

While several other mental health issues take precedence over this particular symptom, it is a significant aspect of hormonal imbalance. Low testosterone levels in women fail to stimulate follicle-stimulating hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, which are responsible for the infamous mood swings women face. Having depression for weeks and months may need some medical attention.

Also read: Dealing with Depression: Everything You Need To Know

What are some helpful tips to increase testosterone levels in women?

low testosterone symptoms in women

Helpful tips to increase testosterone levels in women:

1. Lift Weight

Lifting weight and performing HIIT exercises are the best way to increase testosterone levels in both men and women. Heavy weight lifting is proven to raise testosterone levels from the very first session effectively.

2. Lower Body Fat

Lowering the body fat can reduce the risk of low testosterone levels. Additionally, losing weight goes hand in hand with exercising and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

3. Reduce Stress

During stress, the body secretes a hormone called cortisol that does not allow the circulation of testosterone. Thus reducing your stress and being more at ease and peace will naturally help you increase your testosterone levels.

Also Read: Can stress cause vertigo?

4. Seek Counseling-

Women who suffer from episodes of depression and lack of sexual desire are advised to seek psychiatric counseling. This is to understand the underlying cause and check whether testosterone-containing products must be prescribed.

5. Eat foods that boost testosterone levels

  • Fatty fish - Sardines and Salmon contain omega-3 fatty acids that promote a healthy lifestyle. These oils burn faster and do not add to the fat deposition in your body, thus helping in weight loss.
  • Shellfish - Clams or shellfish are a brilliant source of Zinc, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. They are also commonly used as an aphrodisiac and to increase libido.
  • Pomegranate - the fruit is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids. It is also high in essential minerals such as Zinc and Magnesium that are important to stimulate the release of testosterone.
  • Leafy vegetables - Spinach and Kale are leafy veggies that are high in iron and magnesium content and are responsible for boosting the production of Testosterone.

Also Read: 10 Best Omega 3 Capsules

Conclusion

Women require healthy levels of testosterone for the normal functioning of their bodies. They are responsible for promoting healthy libido, increasing sex drive, and even regulating healthy hormone balance in women. While there are no definite treatment options to increase testosterone levels in women, taking hormonal pills to increase testosterone may also lead to conditions such as infertility and the development of facial characteristics such as facial hair and hormonal imbalance. Therefore, a healthier option is to eat foods that boost the release of testosterone. This will help relieve low testosterone symptoms in women and even help you have a healthy mind, body, and attitude toward life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do women need testosterone?

Yes, testosterone levels are crucial in women as they stimulate the healthy growth of bones and are even responsible for promoting the release of follicle-stimulating hormones in women. Testosterone may be present in minute amounts but has significant effects on women.

What happens with low testosterone levels in women?

Low testosterone levels in women can cause mood swings and changes in mental health and may even result in a hormone imbalance in women.

Where is testosterone produced in women?

Testosterone in women is produced in significant amounts by the adrenal glands and the ovaries. It is also produced in small amounts from the skin and fat cells.

What are the symptoms of low testosterone in women?

Some common low testosterone symptoms in women include low libido, fatigue, mood changes, thinning hair, decreased muscle mass, and problems with memory and concentration.