Testosterone in Women: What You Need to Know

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Testosterone is produced in both males and females, and is essential for a number of reasons. While most people consider it a ‘male’ hormone, women still need it for normal metabolic and reproductive function, muscle strength, urogenital health, mood and cognitive function, as well as libido.

While testosterone levels in women are lower than they are in men, a deficiency can have a noticeable impact. Similarly, raised levels of testosterone can leave women experiencing some really unpleasant symptoms.

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What’s a “normal” level of testosterone in women?

Testosterone and other androgens (hormones that contribute to growth and reproduction) levels can be measured using a blood test. Testosterone levels between 0.29-1.67nmol/L are normal for women under the age of 50, with over 50s having slightly lower levels at 0.101-1.42nmol/L. However, everyone is different, and the healthy level for you will depend on a number of factors. When you send your test back to us, we’ll look at your testosterone levels in relation to your age, weight and height for a more accurate understanding of what’s healthy for you.

What are the symptoms of high testosterone in women?

Women with higher than normal levels of testosterone can experience a number of symptoms, such as; irregular periods, low libido, acne, male pattern balding on the scalp and excessive body hair. Raised testosterone levels are most commonly associated with polycystic ovary syndrome. If you’re experiencing signs of high testosterone, a testosterone blood test will help you keep monitor your levels for better health.

How to lower testosterone in women

Managing your testosterone levels is key to maintaining your health. If you want to reduce your levels of testosterone, changing your diet can have great results.

• Sugar – switching from foods high in processed and refined sugar can help reduce your testosterone levels. Try adding more whole foods to your diet, such as vegetables, low-glycemic fruits and healthy fats.
• Zinc – you may find that your zinc levels are also low, which can have a knock-on effect on your testosterone. Adding zinc-rich foods to your diet, such as lentils, mushrooms, avocado and chickpeas, can help.
• Tea – A study found that drinking spearmint tea twice a day can help reduce testosterone levels in women. Drinking green tea can also have positive benefits, by blocking testosterone from turning into DHT (Dihydrotestosterone)

How to keep an eye on your testosterone levels

If you’re suffering any symptoms consistent with high or low testosterone levels, then a good port of call is your GP.

However, if you’re simply proactively looking to monitor your overall health and hormone levels, then one of our testosterone tests is a simple solution. It’s a simple finger prick blood test you carry out at home, return to us and we make your details results dashboard available online just a couple of days later.

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