Women and Testosterone: The Essential Guide to a Vital Hormone for Female Health

When most people hear the word testosterone, they think of it as a “male” hormone. While men do have higher levels of testosterone, women also produce this vital hormone — and it plays a much bigger role in female health than many realize. Understanding testosterone’s functions, how it changes throughout life, and the signs of imbalance can help women take control of their overall health and well-being.

What Is Testosterone and Why Do Women Need It?

Testosterone is an androgen — a type of steroid hormone — produced primarily in the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. Although women produce much less testosterone than men (about 10–20 times less), the hormone still has a significant impact on physical, mental, and sexual health.

In women, testosterone helps regulate:

Muscle mass and strength
Bone density and fracture prevention
Sex drive (libido) and sexual satisfaction
Mood stability and mental clarity
Energy levels and motivation
Cognitive function including memory and focus

Without enough testosterone, a woman may notice changes in energy, strength, sexual health, and emotional well-being.

How Testosterone Is Produced in Women

For women, testosterone is made in three main areas:

Ovaries – The primary reproductive organs that also make estrogen and progesterone.
Adrenal glands – Small glands above the kidneys that produce hormones related to stress and metabolism.
Peripheral conversion – The body can convert other hormones, like DHEA, into testosterone in tissues such as fat and skin.

Production is at its peak during a woman’s 20s, then gradually declines with age, particularly after menopause.

Normal Testosterone Levels in Women

Typical ranges can vary slightly between labs, but for adult women, total testosterone levels generally fall between 15 and 70 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). What’s considered “normal” may also depend on a woman’s age, health status, and symptoms.

It’s important to note that both low and high testosterone levels can cause problems. That’s why accurate testing and professional evaluation are key before considering treatment.

Symptoms of Low Testosterone in Women

Testosterone deficiency in women can occur naturally with aging or result from medical conditions, surgery, or certain medications. Common signs include:

Low sex drive and reduced sexual satisfaction
Fatigue or lack of motivation
Decreased muscle strength and tone
Mood changes, including depression or irritability
Thinning hair or hair loss
Cognitive difficulties (“brain fog”)
Reduced bone density and higher fracture risk

Many of these symptoms can also overlap with estrogen deficiency, thyroid problems, or chronic stress, making proper testing important for diagnosis.

Causes of Low Testosterone in Women

Possible causes include:

Aging and menopause – Natural hormonal decline
Oophorectomy – Surgical removal of the ovaries
Adrenal insufficiency – Underactive adrenal glands
Pituitary disorders – Affecting hormone signaling
Chronic illness or stress – Disrupting hormone balance
Medications – Especially corticosteroids and oral contraceptives

Symptoms of High Testosterone in Women

While low testosterone is common, excess testosterone can also create health issues, including:

Acne or oily skin
Unwanted hair growth (hirsutism), especially on the face and chest
Thinning scalp hair
Irregular or absent menstrual periods
Deepening of the voice
Changes in body shape toward a more “male” pattern

One of the most common causes of high testosterone in women is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which affects hormone regulation and ovulation.

Testing and Diagnosis

If symptoms suggest a testosterone imbalance, a healthcare provider may order:

Total testosterone – Measures all testosterone in the blood
Free testosterone – Measures testosterone not bound to proteins, which is biologically active
DHEA-S – A precursor hormone that can be converted into testosterone
LH and FSH – Pituitary hormones that help regulate ovarian function

For the most accurate results, blood tests are often done in the morning when levels are highest.

Treatment Options for Low Testosterone

If a woman’s testosterone is significantly low and causing symptoms, treatment may be considered. Options include:

Testosterone therapy – Available in creams, gels, patches, pellets, or injections (should be monitored closely to avoid excess)
DHEA supplements – May help boost testosterone naturally, but should only be taken under medical guidance
Lifestyle changes – Strength training, adequate sleep, stress management, and a balanced diet can support healthy hormone production

Risks of Testosterone Therapy

While testosterone therapy can improve energy, mood, and sexual health, it can also cause side effects if levels get too high, including:

Acne and oily skin
Unwanted hair growth
Voice deepening (irreversible)
Mood changes
Changes in cholesterol levels

Because of these risks, therapy should be personalized, with regular lab monitoring.

Natural Ways to Support Healthy Testosterone in Women

Even without medication, women can take steps to help maintain healthy testosterone levels:

Strength training – Increases muscle mass and can stimulate testosterone production.
Adequate protein intake – Supports muscle and hormone synthesis.
Stress management – High cortisol from chronic stress can suppress testosterone.
Healthy fats – Omega-3s and monounsaturated fats help hormone balance.
Sleep quality – Poor sleep is linked to lower testosterone and other hormone imbalances.

The Bottom Line

Testosterone isn’t just a “male” hormone — it’s essential for women’s physical, mental, and sexual well-being. Levels that are too low or too high can affect everything from energy to fertility. With proper testing, lifestyle changes, and (when necessary) medical treatment, women can maintain a healthy balance and protect their long-term health.

By breaking the stigma and understanding testosterone’s role in women’s bodies, more women can take charge of their hormonal health — and feel stronger, more confident, and more vibrant at every stage of life.