Testosterone improves women’s sex lives

In her dissertation, gynecologist Angelique Flöter Rådestad has studied the effects of combined testosterone and estrogen on sexuality, well-being, bone body composition in women who have had their uterus and ovaries removed.

Several previous studies have shown that hormones like estrogen and progesterone have beneficial effects on the quality of life after menopause. But very little is known about the role of testosterone and what effect testosterone deficiency has on women. When both ovaries have been removed, the production of testosterone is reduced by half, which can affect the sexual function and well-being.

The dissertation demonstrates that women who received combined treatment of estrogen and testosterone for 6 months experienced a significant improvement in certain aspects of their sexual function. The work also shows that endogenous testosterone plays a role in sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction. A testosterone supplement increased women’s interest and joy in sex and their satisfaction with their frequency of sexual activity.

Improvement in psychological well-being was similar with cmbined testosterone/estrogen treatment and placebo/estrogen.

The studies show further that supplemental testosterone has a beneficial effect on musculature and bone metabolism. On the other hand, a certain negative effect was observed on blood fats. Side effects in the form of hair growth and acne were rare.

In sum the dissertation indicates that testosterone is important in women’s sexuality. The positive effects of bones and body composition may also be of significance for women who have had their ovaries removed.

Dissertation:
Testosterone treatment in women: Aspects of sexuality, well-being and metabolism