Beyond Hot Flashes: What Menopause Really Takes Away

This is not the first time I’ve talked about menopause and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). However, this story really isn’t about the primary female sex hormones.

Dr. Kelly Casperson, is one of only a handful of female urologists in the world with a depth of training in sexual medicine and hormone therapy for all genders, especially in the underserved needs of women.

According to Dr. Kelly, one in five men are diagnosed with hypogonadism, a condition where their bodies stop making enough testosterone. Nearly all women experience the same hormone decline when they live long enough.

Men have more than a dozen FDA approved testosterone formulations. But when a woman asks for the same hormone, her doctor has to tell her there is no FDA approved dose for you. The FDA is failing women by denying access to a hormone their bodies naturally produce, while male testosterone products were approved with just 6 months of safety data.

With no FDA approved product, insurance won’t cover it, so women are forced to micro-dose male products, or pay cash for higher dose, less regulated pellets.

In spite of these barriers, as many women as men in America take testosterone. Dr. Casperson has seen what happens when they do. Adding low-dose testosterone can be absolutely transformative.

Maria, a single mom, explains, “it wasn't just about sex. I had energy again. I wanted to connect with friends, tackle projects, hit the gym, and yes — I felt desire again, whether that was for a partner or just for life itself. I felt like coming back to who I really am.”

Research consistently shows that testosterone therapy can significantly improve sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction — whether you’re partnered or single, straight, gay or anywhere on the spectrum. But the benefits extend far beyond sexuality. Many women report dramatic improvements in mood, motivation, muscle strength, bone density, and cognitive clarity.

When properly prescribed and monitored, testosterone therapy has helped women reclaim their sense of vitality and purpose. Some experience mild side effects like slight changes in hair growth or occasional skin changes, but for most, the benefits far outweigh any minor adjustments.

The most profound impact is often on a woman’s relationship with herself. “I stopped apologizing for taking up space,” shares Alex, 51. “I started pursuing interests I’d abandoned, speaking up in meetings, and actually enjoying my body again.”

Whether you’re in a long-term relationship, dating, or happily single, feeling like yourself matters. The bottom line? For many women struggling with the effects of hormonal changes, testosterone isn’t just about managing symptoms — it’s about reclaiming your energy, confidence and zest for life.

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