Low Testosterone in Women: The Hormone Nobody Talks About
When most people hear the word testosterone, they immediately think of men.
In reality, testosterone is an important hormone for women too.
In fact, many women are surprised to learn that low testosterone levels can contribute to symptoms such as fatigue, low libido, decreased muscle tone, brain fog, reduced motivation, and a general feeling of "not being yourself."
Over the years, I've had countless female patients come into my office frustrated because they know something feels off, yet they've been told their symptoms are simply a normal part of aging, stress, motherhood, or menopause.
While many factors can affect how a woman feels, hormones are often part of the conversation, and testosterone is one of the most overlooked hormones of all.
Do Women Naturally Produce Testosterone?
Yes.
Although women produce significantly less testosterone than men, it plays an important role in overall health and wellbeing.
Testosterone is produced primarily by the ovaries and adrenal glands and contributes to:
- Energy levels
- Sexual health and libido
- Muscle maintenance
- Bone health
- Cognitive function
- Mood and motivation
- Exercise recovery
- Overall vitality
When testosterone levels decline, some women notice subtle changes. Others experience symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life.
What Causes Low Testosterone in Women?
Several factors can contribute to declining testosterone levels.
Age and Hormonal Changes
One of the most common causes is aging.
As women move through perimenopause and menopause, testosterone production naturally decreases alongside estrogen and progesterone.
Many women begin noticing symptoms during their 40s and 50s, although changes can occur earlier.
Surgical Menopause
Women who have undergone hysterectomy or ovary removal may experience a more significant decline in hormone production.
Chronic Stress
Long-term stress can affect hormone regulation throughout the body, including adrenal hormone production.
Certain Medications
Some medications, including hormonal contraceptives and other treatments, may influence hormone levels.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Certain health conditions can also affect hormone production and should be evaluated as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Symptoms of Low Testosterone in Women
One of the challenges with low testosterone is that the symptoms are often vague and easy to dismiss.
Many women simply assume they're tired because they're busy.
Others blame stress, work, family responsibilities, or getting older.
While those factors certainly matter, hormones may also play a role.
Common symptoms include:
Persistent Fatigue
Feeling exhausted despite adequate sleep is one of the most common concerns women report.
Low Libido
A noticeable decrease in sexual desire is frequently associated with hormonal changes.
Brain Fog
Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, or feeling mentally "slower" than usual can occur during hormonal transitions.
Loss of Muscle Tone
Many women notice it becomes harder to maintain muscle despite regular exercise.
Reduced Motivation
Some women describe a loss of drive, ambition, or enthusiasm that feels out of character.
Mood Changes
Hormonal fluctuations can affect mood, confidence, and emotional wellbeing.
Slower Recovery from Exercise
Recovery time may increase as hormone levels change.
Could It Be Something Other Than Testosterone?
Absolutely.
One of the biggest mistakes in hormone medicine is assuming every symptom is caused by one hormone.
Fatigue, weight gain, low libido, and brain fog can also be influenced by:
- Estrogen levels
- Thyroid function
- Sleep quality
- Stress
- Nutrition
- Metabolic health
- Medication side effects
- Other medical conditions
This is why proper laboratory testing and medical evaluation are essential.
Hormone therapy should never be based solely on symptoms or social media advice.
How Is Low Testosterone Diagnosed?
A diagnosis involves much more than a single laboratory value.
At Chronos, we evaluate:
- Symptoms
- Medical history
- Lifestyle factors
- Hormone levels
- Overall health status
Two women with identical laboratory results may have completely different experiences and treatment needs.
The goal is to understand the full picture rather than focusing on a single number.
What Does Testosterone Therapy for Women Involve?
When appropriate, testosterone may be included as part of a comprehensive hormone optimization plan.
Treatment should always be individualized.
Every woman has unique hormone levels, symptoms, goals, and medical considerations.
At Chronos Body Health & Wellness, hormone therapy plans are customized based on laboratory findings, symptoms, and ongoing monitoring.
For many women, testosterone is only one piece of the puzzle. Estrogen, progesterone, thyroid health, lifestyle habits, nutrition, sleep, and exercise all play important roles in achieving optimal results.
Frequently Asked Questions About Low Testosterone in Women
At What Age Do Women Start Losing Testosterone?
Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, often becoming more noticeable during perimenopause and menopause. Some women begin experiencing symptoms in their late 30s or early 40s.
Can Low Testosterone Cause Weight Gain?
Hormones can influence body composition, muscle mass, metabolism, and energy levels. However, weight gain is usually multifactorial and should be evaluated comprehensively.
Is Testosterone Only Important for Libido?
No. Testosterone also contributes to energy, cognition, muscle maintenance, recovery, mood, and overall wellbeing.
Can Women Have Low Testosterone Before Menopause?
Yes. While menopause is a common trigger, some women experience symptoms and hormone deficiencies earlier in life.
The Bottom Line
For years, testosterone has been viewed primarily as a male hormone.
The reality is that women need testosterone too.
If you've noticed changes in your energy, motivation, libido, mental clarity, or overall sense of wellbeing, don't assume it's simply something you have to accept.
The answer may not be testosterone.
But it's worth finding out.
A comprehensive hormone evaluation can help identify whether hormonal changes are contributing to your symptoms and whether treatment options may help you feel more like yourself again.
Because feeling exhausted, disconnected, and unlike yourself shouldn't automatically be considered a normal part of getting older.
Written by Mace Scott, MD
Founder and Medical Director at Chronos Body Health & Wellness
Focus: medical weight loss, hormone optimization, wellness medicine, aesthetics
Updated: June 2026
