Women experience a decline in estrogen during the years surrounding menopause. Before the ovaries shut down, there are gradual declines in both progesterone and testosterone. Both are rarely measured in the course of normal physical examinations, yet both have critical roles in preventing the epidemic of estrogen-dominant diseases such as reproductive and breast cancer, auto-immune disease, reduced bone density, osteoporosis, as well as reduced libido, and sexual insensitivity.
Growing evidence over the last decade has suggested testosterone is a very important hormone in women. Compounded creams or gels provide an easy and effective method of delivering testosterone to women in an amount far less than what men need.
Due to its traditional association with masculinity and male sexual function, the roles of testosterone for women have not been widely discussed. In fact, what constitutes an abnormal t-level, specifically in the lower ranges of normal in the premenopausal and postmenopausal populations, and whether those values directly correlate with sexual, musculoskeletal, and quality of life symptoms have not been fully understood.
Several studies support symptoms with testosterone replacement therapy in an environment of adequate estrogen, but most of these studies have been done on a relatively small number of subjects. Currently, there are several trials addressing testosterone replacement and how best to optimize this treatment in women with symptoms related to this issue.
For an appointment or consultation with Dr. Gary Bellman, please contact the office or call 818-912-1899