TLDR Androgens, male hormones, play a role in both men and women's health, and testosterone therapy can help women with low levels, but it's not suitable for pregnant or lactating women, or those with certain conditions.
In 2003, the document discussed the role of androgens, a group of 19-carbon steroid hormones associated with maleness, in both men and women. Androgens, which include dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS), DHEA, A, T and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), were found to act directly by binding to a specific androgen receptor and initiating biological responses in the target tissue. They could also act after conversion to oestrogens in peripheral tissues and then via the oestrogen receptors. Symptoms of androgen insufficiency in women included a diminished sense of well-being, dysphoric mood, and others. Testosterone therapy was indicated for women presenting classical clinical symptoms, with the diagnosis being substantiated by a free T concentration in the lowest quartile of the relevant female reference range. However, contraindications to T therapy included pregnancy and lactation, androgen-dependent neoplasia, severe acne and/or hirsutism, androgenic alopecia, and situations where increased libido was undesirable.
28 citations,
October 1998 in “Baillière's clinical endocrinology and metabolism” Testosterone replacement may help post-menopausal women with androgen insufficiency, but more research is needed on its benefits and risks.
34 citations,
December 2012 in “Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care” Sex hormone treatments can increase muscle mass in older adults but have inconsistent effects on muscle function and may carry cardiovascular risks.
October 2007 in “Postgraduate obstetrics & gynecology” Testosterone therapy can help with androgen deficiency in women but should be used with caution and monitoring due to potential risks.
October 2007 in “Postgraduate obstetrics & gynecology” Testosterone therapy can help postmenopausal women with low sexual desire but needs more safety research and should be used with estrogen therapy.
research Acne
2 citations,
May 2011 in “Harper's Textbook of Pediatric Dermatology” Acne is a common skin condition linked to diet, hormones, and genetics, and early treatment can prevent scarring.
27 citations,
January 2013 in “Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology” PCOS is a complex disorder managed by treating symptoms and requires a team of specialists.
251 citations,
October 2014 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” The guidelines advise against using testosterone and DHEA in women for most conditions due to safety and effectiveness concerns, but suggest considering testosterone for postmenopausal women with low sexual desire.
