When most people think about hormone replacement therapy for menopause, they think of oestrogen and progesterone. Testosterone rarely enters the conversation, yet it is a hormone that women produce throughout their lives — one that declines significantly around the time of menopause. For many women, that decline contributes to symptoms that standard HRT does not fully address.
Pharmacy Planet offers a range of HRT treatment options, including testosterone gel products such as Testogel and Tostran, prescribed at appropriate doses for women following clinical assessment.
Table of Contents
1. Do Women Produce Testosterone?
2. What Symptoms Are Linked to Low Testosterone in Women?
3. What Does the Evidence Say?
4. How Is Testosterone Given to Women?
5. Is Testosterone HRT Safe for Women?
6. How Do You Access Testosterone Therapy in the UK?
7.1. Can testosterone help with menopause fatigue?
7.2. Will testosterone make me look or feel more masculine?
Do Women Produce Testosterone?
Yes. Women produce testosterone in the ovaries and adrenal glands throughout their lives. Levels are much lower than in men, but testosterone plays an important role in female health, including energy levels, mood, cognitive function, bone density, and sexual desire. Levels decline with age and drop significantly around menopause.
What Symptoms Are Linked to Low Testosterone in Women?
- Reduced or absent libido (low sex drive) that does not improve with standard HRT
- Persistent fatigue despite adequate sleep
- Low mood, reduced motivation, or a general sense of flatness
- Difficulty concentrating or brain fog
- Reduced muscle mass and strength
- Reduced sense of wellbeing
If you are already taking oestrogen-based HRT and these symptoms persist, testosterone deficiency may be a contributing factor. Read our blog on the most common symptoms of menopause for a broader symptom overview.
What Does the Evidence Say?
The evidence for testosterone therapy in postmenopausal women is strongest for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). Multiple systematic reviews and guidelines from the British Menopause Society support the use of testosterone for HSDD where standard HRT has not resolved the issue. NICE guidance (NG23) on menopause acknowledges testosterone as a consideration for women with low sexual desire unresponsive to HRT.
How Is Testosterone Given to Women?
In the UK, testosterone is typically prescribed as a gel applied to the outer thigh, using products such as Testogel or Tostran at a fraction of the male dose. These are prescribed off-label for women but are commonly used by menopause specialists and GPs with relevant expertise.
Is Testosterone HRT Safe for Women?
When prescribed at appropriate physiological doses with monitoring, testosterone therapy has a good safety profile. Potential side effects at appropriate doses are generally mild and reversible:
- Mild acne or oily skin
- Increased body or facial hair (usually only at higher doses)
- Changes in mood
Regular blood tests to monitor levels are recommended. Testosterone therapy is not appropriate for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or who have certain hormone-sensitive conditions.
For a broader understanding of HRT safety, read our blog on HRT risks and side effects and HRT for women with a history of breast cancer.
How Do You Access Testosterone Therapy in the UK?
Access can be variable through NHS GP services. Pharmacy Planet provides an online prescribing service and stocks Testogel and Tostran. Begin a consultation at pharmacyplanet.com/start-consultation.html. You may also find our full HRT treatment range useful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can testosterone help with menopause fatigue?
Some women report significant improvement in energy and motivation with testosterone therapy. The evidence is more established for libido than fatigue specifically, but many clinicians consider it reasonable for persistent fatigue unresponsive to oestrogen HRT.
Will testosterone make me look or feel more masculine?
At the low doses used for women, masculinising effects are very unlikely. The aim is to restore levels to normal premenopausal female ranges, not to elevate them.
Do I need to take oestrogen as well as testosterone?
Testosterone is usually prescribed alongside oestrogen-based HRT rather than instead of it. If you still have your uterus, you will also need progesterone. Your prescriber will advise on the most appropriate combination.
Is testosterone for menopause available on the NHS?
Yes, but access is inconsistent. Pharmacy Planet can prescribe testosterone gel for women where clinically appropriate. View available products including Testogel and Tostran.
Reviewed for clinical accuracy. Content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All prescription medicines require a valid prescription following appropriate clinical assessment.
