Introduction
When you hear “testosterone,” you probably think men. But here’s a little-known truth: testosterone is just as important for women. In fact, women need the right amount of testosterone to feel energized, focused, strong, and even sexually alive.
If you’ve been feeling flat, foggy, or unmotivated, the root cause might be low testosterone — and it’s often missed in women’s health checkups. Let’s explore the real signs of low testosterone in women, what causes it, and how to restore your balance naturally.
What Is Testosterone and Why Do Women Need It?
Testosterone is one of your androgens, or “male” hormones — but it plays major roles in the female body too. It’s produced in small amounts by the ovaries and adrenal glands and supports:
- Muscle strength and tone
- Bone density
- Mood stability
- Sex drive (libido)
- Cognitive function
- Energy levels
When your testosterone drops below optimal, your quality of life does too.
Common Low Testosterone Symptoms in Women
You don’t need a blood test to know something’s off — your body will tell you.
1. Low Libido
One of the most well-known signs. You feel disconnected from intimacy, and your sexual desire disappears — sometimes suddenly.
2. Fatigue and Lack of Motivation
You feel like you’re moving through mud. Tasks that used to be easy now feel exhausting, even if you’re getting enough sleep.
3. Loss of Muscle Tone and Weight Gain
Testosterone helps build and maintain lean muscle. If it drops, your body composition changes — especially around your belly and arms.
4. Brain Fog and Difficulty Concentrating
You might struggle with memory, focus, or clear thinking. Low testosterone often contributes to “mom brain” or midlife fogginess.
5. Mood Changes: Irritability or Depression
Mood swings, sadness, or even apathy can arise when testosterone is low. It affects your dopamine and serotonin pathways.
6. Thinning Hair or Hair Loss
Your ponytail feels thinner, or you’re shedding more in the shower. Testosterone imbalances often impact hair growth and strength.
7. Dry Skin and Vaginal Dryness
Testosterone helps maintain skin elasticity and vaginal tissue health. When it drops, dryness becomes an issue.
8. Decreased Physical Stamina
You may notice your workouts feel harder, or you’re not bouncing back the way you used to. Low T = low strength and endurance.
What Causes Low Testosterone in Women?
Several root causes can drive testosterone down:
- Chronic stress (cortisol steals hormone precursors)
- Birth control pills or hormone therapy
- Menopause and perimenopause
- Poor diet or nutrient deficiencies
- Underactive ovaries or adrenal fatigue
- Certain medications (e.g. corticosteroids, antidepressants)
How to Test for Low Testosterone
Testing is crucial — guesswork isn’t enough.
We recommend:
- Free & Total Testosterone blood test
- DUTCH test (a comprehensive hormone panel)
- DHEA and cortisol tests (since they affect androgen production)
Ask Dr Olz offers hormone testing across South Africa. Book a consult and get help decoding your results.
Natural Ways to Boost Testosterone in Women
Nutritional Support
- Zinc – helps convert DHEA to testosterone
- Magnesium – supports hormone synthesis
- Vitamin D – boosts production and sensitivity
- DHEA – a precursor that can be supplemented if deficient
- Ashwagandha – supports adrenal function and reduces cortisol
Important: Always consult a practitioner before supplementing DHEA or hormones.
Lifestyle Tips
- Strength training – resistance exercise naturally increases testosterone
- Stress management – chronic stress suppresses hormone production
- Sleep 7–9 hours – poor sleep lowers testosterone overnight
- Cut sugar and alcohol – both can suppress your natural production
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re dealing with multiple symptoms and not feeling like yourself, it’s time to get evaluated. Most doctors overlook testosterone in women — but at AskDrOlz, we specialize in functional hormone testing and personalised care.
💬 Need help figuring it out? Book a virtual hormone consult today.
FAQs
Q: Can low testosterone cause weight gain in women?
Yes. It reduces muscle mass and slows metabolism, especially around the midsection.
Q: Do women need testosterone therapy?
Some women benefit from low-dose bioidentical testosterone — but only under expert guidance. Natural support is usually the first step.
Q: Is low testosterone the same as menopause?
Not quite. While testosterone drops with menopause, low T can happen before — even in your 20s or 30s — due to stress, diet, or medications.
Low testosterone doesn’t just affect men. For women, it can feel like slowly losing your spark — mentally, physically, and emotionally. But the good news? It’s reversible.
Let AskDrOlz help you test, treat, and thrive again — with science-backed solutions, South African support, and natural healing at the centre.
Related Resources
- Signs of Hormonal Imbalance in Women
- Hormone Testing Services in South Africa
- Natural Supplements for Hormone Health
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