Testosterone Loss in Women during Peri/Menopause

Dena Bradford
May 27
3 min read

When we think about hormones and women’s health, estrogen often takes the spotlight.

But did you know that testosterone also plays a crucial role in a woman’s overall well-being? Testosterone loss in women during menopause needs addressed.

While it’s commonly associated with men, testosterone is just as important for women, contributing to everything from energy levels to mood and even muscle health.

During perimenopause and menopause, women often experience a decline in testosterone levels, which can bring about significant changes in their bodies and minds. Understanding these changes is essential because it can empower women to navigate this phase of life with knowledge and confidence.

Physical Impacts of Testosterone Loss

Testosterone has a significant impact on many physical aspects of a woman’s health, and its loss during perimenopause and menopause can create a ripple effect on daily life. Fatigue is often one of the first symptoms women notice. Low testosterone levels can leave you feeling chronically tired, even after a good night’s sleep. This drop in energy can make it harder to stay active or complete routine tasks.

Another common issue is muscle loss. Testosterone is a key hormone for maintaining muscle mass, and its decline can lead to noticeable changes in body composition. You might find it harder to build or retain muscle, which can impact strength and mobility over time. With muscle loss often comes weight gain, particularly in the form of increased body fat around the midsection, which can feel frustrating and difficult to manage.

Decreased libido is another well-known physical effect of testosterone loss. Many women experience a reduced sex drive, which can strain relationships or impact self-esteem. These changes may feel isolating, but they’re more common than you think and deserve open, supportive conversations. Being aware of these symptoms is the first step toward finding ways to address them and reclaiming your well-being.

Emotional and Mental Impacts of Testosterone Loss

Testosterone doesn’t just affect the body—it also plays a significant role in emotional and mental health. Women in perimenopause and menopause often experience mood swings that seem to come out of nowhere. These rapid shifts in emotion can be unsettling and might leave you wondering why your feelings are so difficult to regulate.

Anxiety and depression are also common during this time, often linked to the hormonal changes in your body. A decline in testosterone can make you feel more anxious, sad, or irritable than usual, even if your circumstances haven’t changed. These emotional effects can be hard to manage, especially if they interfere with your relationships, work, or daily routines.

Another frustrating symptom of testosterone loss is brain fog. Many women describe this as feeling forgetful, struggling to focus, or losing their train of thought mid-conversation. These cognitive challenges can make tasks that were once second nature feel overwhelming, adding to the stress of daily life. While these symptoms can feel discouraging, it’s important to remember that they are not your fault—and there are ways to address and improve your emotional and mental health during this phase of life.

How Symptoms Surface and Vary Among Women

Every woman’s experience with testosterone loss is unique. Some may notice symptoms as early as their 30s during perimenopause, while others may not be affected until later in menopause.

Factors like age, lifestyle, and overall health can play a big role in how symptoms present and how severe they are. For example, a woman with a highly active lifestyle and a nutritious diet may experience milder symptoms than someone with chronic health issues or higher stress levels.

Stress, in particular, can exacerbate the effects of hormone changes. Women juggling demanding careers, family responsibilities, and other pressures may find that their symptoms feel more intense. Similarly, underlying health conditions like thyroid disorders or autoimmune diseases can complicate how the body responds to hormonal shifts.

It’s also important to note that cultural expectations and personal awareness can influence how women perceive and manage their symptoms. Some women may seek medical advice right away, while others might push through symptoms without realizing that help is available. Knowing that these experiences vary widely can help you feel less alone and more empowered to address your unique journey.

Empowering Women Through Awareness

The loss of testosterone during perimenopause and menopause can bring physical, emotional, and mental challenges, but it doesn’t have to be a mystery—or something you face in silence. From fatigue and muscle loss to mood swings and brain fog, these changes are valid and deserve attention. By understanding the role of testosterone in your health and how its decline impacts your body and mind, you can take proactive steps toward relief.

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