Androgens
Definition
Androgens represent a group of hormones, including testosterone and DHEA, that are often called "male hormones" but are vital for female health, supporting bone strength, libido, muscle mass, and cognitive function.
In Depth
Androgens in women are primarily produced by the ovaries and the adrenal glands. While often dismissed as "male hormones," they are essential building blocks for female physiology and serve as precursors to estrogen production. The main androgens in women are testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).
Throughout the reproductive years, androgens contribute to maintaining bone density, building muscle mass, and supporting a healthy sex drive. During the menopause transition, the production of androgens declines, but the drop is generally more gradual and less absolute than the precipitous fall of estrogen. However, the balance between estrogen and androgens shifts significantly. As estrogen disappears, the relative influence of androgens can become more apparent, leading to changes like "menopausal acne," increased facial hair, and the thinning of hair on the scalp.
Low androgen levels (Androgen Deficiency) can manifest as persistent fatigue, a significant loss of libido (formally known as Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder or HSDD), and a general sense of decreased well-being. While testosterone therapy is not a first-line treatment for everyone, it is increasingly recognized as a valid option for managing specific symptoms like low libido in postmenopausal women, provided it is managed within clinical safety guidelines. Understanding the role of androgens reminds us that the menopause transition is a total hormonal orchestra shift, not just the loss of a single instrument.
Why It Matters
Androgens are the "hidden" player in the menopause transition, influencing everything from physical strength and bone health to sexual desire and cognitive resilience.