UK
Is The Testosterone Debate Harming Menopausal Women?
Another day, another headline heralding a scandal in women’s health. The so-called "menopause testosterone crisis" has sparked a heated debate in the medical community and among those seeking relief from menopausal symptoms. A recent investigation in the Guardian explored the case that testosterone is too readily available - and we wanted to dive deeper into this story. Champions claim that testosterone has many benefits for patients experiencing menopausal symptoms, and are actively advocating for easier access to testosterone replacement. On the other hand, many medical professionals are expressing concerns about potential misuse and lack of comprehensive care. So, what is the truth? Let’s explore…
The Case for Testosterone
Testosterone is indeed an essential hormone for women, playing a crucial role in sexual function, bone density, and overall well-being. Despite being traditionally thought of as a ‘manly’ hormone, women actually produce 3 times more testosterone than oestrogen before menopause. During menopause, our testosterone levels naturally decrease, which can cause low sex drive and sex less enjoyable due to issues with arousal and reaching orgasm.
Currently, low libido is the only condition that the NHS will prescribe testosterone treatment for here in the UK, as testosterone administered topically to skin in the form of a gel can help improve sex drive.
However, advocates for testosterone beyond purely boosting sex drive have been taking to social media to shout about its believed benefits. Anecdotally speaking, the touted further impacts often include better mood and concentration, increased energy levels and possible protection for bones, muscles, and cognitive function. Sounds brilliant? Don’t get too excited just yet.
Medical Concerns and Cautions
On one hand, the medical community has long ignored women’s feedback and lived experiences (for example, around initially dismissing patient-reported changes to menstrual cycles post COVID vaccine). This is especially true when it comes to menopause care, and even more so for women of colour. In 2022, The Fawcett Society launched the largest ever survey of menopausal and perimenopausal women in the UK. The results showed a deep lack of support from the medical community for women at this transitional life stage, with 45% of Black and minoritised women say it took many appointments for their GP to realise they were experiencing the menopause, compared to 30% of white women.
With this in mind, if you personally feel that you have seen a positive impact from testosterone beyond libido boosting alone, the presumed ‘gatekeeping’ of a potentially beneficial product could seem inhumane. Moreover, some argue that the difficulty in obtaining testosterone through traditional channels, such as the NHS, is driving women to seek alternative sources, such as private clinics or less comprehensive online services, potentially putting their health at risk.
However, on the flip side, many medical professionals have expressed concerns about the ease of obtaining testosterone, for purposes beyond treating low libido in menopause, particularly through private or online clinics, for many reasons. Their worries include:
- Lack of proper counselling and monitoring with online clinics. The Guardian’s report highlights the potential for the product to be prescribed to women who don’t actually need testosterone treatment, but something else entirely.
- There is a real possibility of potential misuse or overuse of the medication, due to confusion around doses and usage. Social media misinformation plays a key role here in muddying the waters on safe and correct usage.
- Risk of side effects from supra-physiological doses.
Most of all, we need to acknowledge that there simply is insufficient data on long-term effects and benefits of testosterone beyond treating sexual dysfunction in women. There just aren’t enough studies to support its use for other symptoms, such as low mood, stamina or sleep issues.
Dr. Sarah Welsh, co-founder of HANX and gynaecology doctor, offers a balanced perspective:
"While testosterone can be beneficial for some menopausal women, particularly for low libido, it's crucial that its use is carefully monitored and prescribed based on individual needs. The ease of obtaining testosterone online without comprehensive medical oversight is concerning, especially as the data surrounding its benefits beyond supporting sex drive is so limited currently. Women deserve access to evidence-based treatments, but also need to be fully informed about potential risks."
Finding Middle Ground
As with many medical debates, the truth likely lies somewhere in the middle.
- It’s absolutely true that more research is needed on the effects of testosterone in women, particularly for symptoms beyond low sex drive.
- Improved education for GPs on current guidelines for testosterone use in menopause could help address the gap in NHS provision.
- Stricter regulations for prescriptions from online services could ensure women receive proper counselling and monitoring, and help avoid misuse.
- Open dialogue between patients and healthcare providers is crucial to ensure women's concerns are heard and addressed appropriately. We know our bodies - let us advocate for them!
In conclusion, while testosterone may offer benefits for some menopausal women, it's essential that its use is guided by medical professionals and based on individual needs and circumstances. As research progresses, we may gain a clearer understanding of testosterone's role in managing menopausal symptoms, potentially leading to more comprehensive and accessible treatment options for women in the future.
Want more?
- Try our all-natural Menopause Support, Formulated to help manage menopausal symptoms and co-designed by Dr. Sarah Welsh and our expert nutritionist partner.
- Read more on what is perimenopause? And how can you feel better?
- Check out our brand-new, best-selling Libido Lift supplement. Designed to naturally help boost desire.
