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Can taking testosterone benefit menopause symptoms, and what are the risks? |
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Testosterone to treat menopausal symptoms is a controversial subject. While it’s known that testosterone levels decline with age due to the decline of ovarian function, it’s not agreed upon whether testosterone can effectively treat symptoms with the exception of sexual desire, which is currently the only approved usage of testosterone in menopausal people.
That said, many believe that testosterone can improve cognition, mood, energy, vaginal dryness, and muscle mass. There just have not been randomized controlled trials that prove it. There are very few studies on testosterone therapy in women.
In those who are treated with low dose testosterone, there are few side effects if levels are maintained in what is considered the normal physiological range for women. For that reason, it’s recommended to have your blood levels checked at the start of treatment and again every 3 months.
The most common side effects of excess testosterone are hair growth, acne, and weight gain. Deepening of the voice and hair loss are generally with very high levels. There are not any long term studies on the safety of testosterone on heart disease and breast cancer; however, short term studies have been reassuring.
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