TESTOSTERONE

Testosterone
What happens when testosterone levels in women decline?
Testosterone and Menopause
Studies show testosterone improves Sex Drive
Testosterone in Men

Testosterone

Whilst Estrogen and progesterone are the hormones in greatest abundance in the female body, females also produce other hormones that hold great importance. Testosterone is an essential  female hormone, although women have lower levels than men. Growing evidence suggests Testosterone, may contribute to many of the menopausal changes that were formerly thought to be caused by a decrease in Estrogen, including bone loss, fatigue and loss of well being.

In women, testosterone is produced mainly in the ovaries, but also in the adrenals, skin, brain and liver. A gradual decline in testosterone levels is recorded in postmenopausal women. This decline is not as rapid as that of Estrogen and Progesterone.

In women, testosterone is known to enhance libido, restore lost energy, strengthen bone, elevate mood and increase sensitivity to sexual pleasure in erogenous zones.

What happens when testosterone levels in women decline?

Testosterone levels in women peak during their 20s, with the ovaries supplying about half, and the adrenals the remainder. Production then declines until a woman is in her 40s, where she will register around half the levels of testosterone in her 20s. In post-menopausal women, testosterone loss can cause thinning of hair and loss of libido.

Testosterone and Menopause

As the ovaries begin to shut down during menopause, testosterone production is dramatically reduced. Women who do not respond to combined estrogen/progesterone therapy may benefit from the addition of a small amount of testosterone to their therapy.

Dr John Moran of the Optimal Health Clinic in London has pioneered NHRT over the past decade. He has observed women responding positively to a small amount of testosterone being added to their NHRT, notably libido and energy seems to be replenished.

Studies show testosterone improves Sex Drive

In 2000, researchers from nine medical centers across Australia tested a topical application of testosterone among 75 women. All of the subjects were given small doses of testosterone designed to bring them in line with pre-menopausal levels. They reported an increase in libido and sexual enjoyment without adverse affects.

Testosterone must be carefully prescribed in women to achieve the optimal effects.  In this way the effects of excessive testosterone such as acne and unwanted hair growth can be prevented.

Testosterone in Men

Testosterone in males is produced in the Leydig cells, found in the testes. These cells secrete high levels of testosterone during puberty to trigger muscle development, sex organ growth, bone formation, deeper voice and higher energy levels. These levels will peak during a male's mid-twenties.

Between the ages of 40 and 70, a male's testosterone production can naturally decrease by as much as 60%. Other factors such as over training, stress and alcohol can hasten the decline in testosterone production.

In both males and females, testosterone stimulates the body's development of muscle, bone, skin and sex organs, and masculine features such as hair growth.

Recently scientists have discovered that testosterone can improve mental power and spatial capacity, enhancing visual and perceptual skills. Low levels can disrupt blood sugar metabolism, resulting in an increased risk of obesity and diabetes. It is best known for enhancing libido and energy, but has shown benefits in preventing cardiovascular disease, as well as improving bone density, muscle tone, moods and vitality.

Indicators of low testosterone in men:

• Reduced Libido
• Fatigue
• High Body Mass Index
• Irritability
• Abdominal Fat
• Depression
• High glucose and insulin levels
• Aches and pains in joints
• Decreased bone density and osteoporosis
• Thin and dry skin
• Weight Loss

Increasing testosterone levels:

• Lowers cholesterol
• Lowers Triglycerides
• Lowers Blood Glucose
• Reduces abdominal fat
• Reduces blood clotting
• Improves libido
• Improves muscle mass and strength
• Improves sexual sensitivity
• Can help impotence
• Increases mental sharpness
• Reduces depression
• Increases bone mass
• Enhances aerobic metabolism
• Enhances moods
• Increases Protein Synthesis
• Can help reduce the risk of heart disease