It is true that women produce testosterone, which is often regarded as a hormone primarily associated with men. However, women also require normal levels of testosterone for maintaining their health and overall well-being. In fact, in women, the level of testosterone is generally higher than that of estradiol, which is a type of estrogen and often considered a "female hormone.

The production of testosterone in women occurs in the adrenal glands and ovaries, and it plays a vital role in various bodily functions. Maintaining normal levels of testosterone is important for supporting the health of female reproductive tissue, bones, and regulating mood. If testosterone levels become imbalanced and go too high or too low, it can lead to various symptoms.

There are several important functions that testosterone can perform in a woman's health, such as supporting cardiovascular health, maintaining and growing bones, decreasing body fat in postmenopausal women, increasing muscle mass, supporting a healthy libido or sex drive, and helping to decrease vaginal atrophy, which is more common in postmenopausal women.

Although normal testosterone production has many health benefits for females, too much or too little testosterone can lead to negative effects on the body. Low testosterone levels, in particular, can cause symptoms that should be discussed, such as those described in the article about signs and symptoms of low testosterone.

What are some indications of low testosterone levels in women?

A decrease in sex drive, changes in mood, and weight gain are all typical symptoms. If low testosterone persists over time, it may also contribute to more severe problems such as heart disease, memory problems, and a reduction in bone density.

Are there other common indications of low testosterone?

Women may experience hair thinning, drier skin, decreased sex drive (which is why some women with low testosterone may choose to undergo testosterone therapy), muscle loss, increased body fat, mood changes (including greater anxiety), and sexual dysfunction. Other potential symptoms of low testosterone include bone loss and overall loss of strength.