Testosterone isn’t only a hormone present in males, it’s present in females too. Testosterone is a steroid hormone found in the androgen group. It is important for bone strength and development of lean muscle mass. Testosterone also contributes to mood and energy level. It plays a crucial role in a woman’s libido.
Several circumstances can cause low testosterone in females, including a hysterectomy with or without removal of the ovaries, perimenopause, menopause, and some prescription drugs.
Testosterone is produced in the ovaries for females, so women who have had a hysterectomy are at a high risk for symptoms that correlate with low testosterone. A hysterectomy is an operation to remove a woman’s uterus. Sometimes, the ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed as well.
Perimenopause is also known as premenopause or early menopause. Perimenopause is the length of time one year before and after a woman’s final menstrual period. During this time, ovarian hormonal patterns change. Menopause is when the ovarian production of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone decline. Women usually experience menopause at around the age of 50.