Testosterone

Although testosterone is a male hormone women still produce small amounts.  Testosterone is produced by the ovaries and helps to regulate sex drive (libido), energy and mental state.

Following a natural menopause testosterone will continue to be produced by the ovaries in significant amounts for approximately twelve years.Therefore a woman who has a surgical menopause that removes her ovaries will no longer produce testosterone and this may be responsible for a poor libido, depression and a lack of energy following surgery.

Testosterone may also have a role to play in conserving bone after menopause and may be more suitable for women that are unable to take oestrogen supplements due to an increased risk of osteoporosis. However testosterone should not be taken orally, in the form of tablets, as it can damage the liver. The usual form of administration is by implant or by injection at regular intervals. There is currently a trial being undertaken that is looking at supplementing with testosterone patches.