Perceived effects of testosterone replacement therapy in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women: an internet pilot...

Women experience somatic, mood, energy, and libido changes during menopause. Testosterone replacement therapy is being prescribed in conjunction with estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) for these symptoms. Little is known about women's perceptions of the benefits and risks of testosterone, so an Internet survey was conducted to elicit women's perceptions of the effects on mood, energy, sexuality, and somatic symptoms. A sample of 61 women primarily from the United States and Canada participated in the survey; one woman from Germany and one from Sweden also took part in the survey. Participants reported significantly improved sexuality and improved mood and vigor, with a decline in fatigue. Of the 7 somatic complaints assessed, improvements were noted in 5 (sleep disturbances, hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and appetite). A prospective clinical trial is needed to confirm these results.