Testosterone therapy for women is primarily used to treat Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) and related symptoms in postmenopausal women, though it is sometimes considered off-label for premenopausal women with specific needs. It’s indicated when low libido, reduced sexual satisfaction, or fatigue persists despite optimized estrogen/progesterone therapy, often in menopause or perimenopause. Testosterone is administered in low, physiologic doses to mimic natural levels, avoiding masculinizing effects. Transdermal is the preferred route. This includes gels, creams, or patches (e.g., compounded 0.5-2 mg/day or AndroGel 1% off-label) applied to skin (thighs, abdomen). Offers steady absorption, minimizing side effects.
Subcutaneous Pellets are specific Testosterone doses, surgically implanted every 3-6 months. They are often associated with supraphysiologic levels that leave women with side effects often needing additional medications to fix. Additionally, once they are implanted, they are not able to be removed. For all of these reasons, I do not use pellets and recommend avoiding any practitioner that only offers this modality.
My primary tools when it comes to longevity are maximizing your metabolic health through nutrition, activity and stress resilience. All of my care is centered on these main modalities. While I love to use cutting edge medicines, diagnostics and devices, I will always go back to optimizing lifestyle first! Let's work together to make this easy, sustainable and fun so you can live a long healthy life!!!
