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Androgens and female sexuality
1Jean Hailes Foundation, 173 Carinish Rd, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia. suedavis@netlink.com.au
The Journal of Gender-Specific Medicine : JGSM : the Official Journal of the Partnership for Women'S Health at Columbia
|March 20, 2001
Summary
Many women experience symptoms like low libido and fatigue due to androgen deficiency, which may be treated with testosterone. The exact mechanism of testosterone
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Women's Health
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Growing evidence suggests women experience symptoms responsive to testosterone therapy, potentially linked to androgen deficiency.
- Common symptoms include low libido, fatigue, and reduced well-being, often correlating with low bioavailable testosterone levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the rationale for testosterone therapy in women.
- To define androgen deficiency in women based on clinical experience.
- To outline current testosterone replacement options and associated risks.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on testosterone's role in female health.
- Clinical experience-based definition of androgen deficiency.
- Analysis of available testosterone formulations and safety data.
Main Results:
- Testosterone therapy is increasingly prescribed for women with specific symptom clusters.
- The precise mechanism of testosterone's effect on libido (androgen receptor vs. estrogen metabolism) remains unclear.
- A broad clinical definition of female androgen deficiency is proposed.
Conclusions:
- Testosterone therapy is a growing option for women with symptoms of androgen deficiency.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms of testosterone action in women.
- Understanding risks and benefits is crucial for informed testosterone replacement therapy decisions.