The Relationship Between Testosterone and Estrogen
Many of the 35 symptoms of menopause relate to estrogen declines. Though estrogen is considered the foremost female hormone, estrogen production requires the presence of testosterone. Testosterone helps produce specialized forms of estrogen, known respectively as estradiol (in women who are not pregnant) and estriol (produced in pregnant women). When testosterone levels decline, two levels of symptoms can occur as a result ? those related directly to the loss of testosterone, and those related to the loss of estrogenic hormones.
Physical Symptoms of Testosterone Imbalances in Women During Menopause
Symptoms of declining testosterone levels can range from psychological to physical symptoms. Testosterone levels have a reputation for providing sex drive, promoting sensation, orgasm and desire ? even in females. With declining testosterone hormones, women may experience less sexual pleasure quite literally, as sensitivity decreases in both the breast and genital regions. Women also may find climaxing more difficult, especially when testosterone levels occur in combination with other hormonal decreases, leading to painful or uncomfortable intercourse.
However, not all physical symptoms of testosterone decline involve sensuality. Testosterone can also factor into negative changes metabolism and difficulty in building muscle, making exercise less productive for women. Testosterone is also vital to bone health, affecting menopausal women?s risks for bone density conditions such as osteopenia and osteoporosis. Testosterone deficiencies can also affect vascular symptoms in women.
Psychological Symptoms of Testosterone Deficiency During Menopause
Testosterone can also have effects on women?s mental health states. Many women experience lethargy and lack of energy directly related to lowered testosterone levels. Women may even experience symptoms of depression as a result of depleted testosterone.
