© Freepik
June 7, 2025
Jana Ackermann
Testosterone has the reputation of being the "doer hormone" - and is important not only for men but also for women. A hormone expert explains what it does during menopause, how to recognize a deficiency, and how to regulate testosterone levels
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Testosterone is often considered the "male sex hormone" and is commonly associated with stereotypes such as strong muscles, sexual desire, body hair, and exaggerated masculinity. However, testosterone is also present in smaller amounts in the female body and plays a crucial role – from libido to muscle strength to mood, hormonal balance, as well as skin and hair.
"During menopause, the hormonal balance changes – the ovaries become less active and produce less and less hormones over time," explains Dr. Katharina Burkhardt, hormone scientist and president of the Network for Bioidentical Hormones. "This affects not only well-known female hormones like progesterone and estradiol, but also the production of testosterone."
With the last menstrual period, the ovaries eventually stop producing hormones altogether. From this point on, testosterone is produced only in small amounts – in the adrenal cortex and body tissue, such as fat tissue.
What is testosterone important for? How does a deficiency manifest? These are the most important facts for women.
"Testosterone is an underestimated player in the female hormonal balance," states Dr. Burkhardt. Although women produce significantly less testosterone than men, it still fulfills numerous functions – from supporting libido to stabilizing mood to maintaining muscle mass and bone density.
Especially exciting: Testosterone also contributes to the strengthening of the pelvic floor muscles. "This has a direct impact on continence - a topic that gains importance, especially during menopause," says the expert.
A low testosterone level can manifest through a variety of symptoms - often non-specific and therefore difficult to attribute. These include fatigue, exhaustion, lack of drive, mood swings, or a depressive mood. Decreasing muscle strength and bone density are also warning signs. “A low testosterone level can also increase the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures.”
"Testosterone shows us in a loving way where life is going," says Dr. Burkhardt. It is not without reason that it is also referred to as the "doer hormone" (or in this case "doer hormone"). It promotes vitality, motivation, and - not to be forgotten - sexual desire. If the level is too low, it leads to lack of drive, decreased libido, and a general feeling of "not being yourself anymore."
Especially during menopause, when many women are confronted with dwindling energy and declining zest for life, testosterone plays a central role. "Here it is worth taking a closer look at the hormone status," recommends the expert.
While a high testosterone level is rarer, it can also occur. Possible causes are hormonal imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or adrenal dysfunctions. “A relative excess can even occur if estradiol decreases more significantly than testosterone.”
Typical symptoms of an excess include acne, oily skin, or unwanted facial hair growth. Mood swings can also occur. The good news: A hormonal imbalance can usually be well diagnosed and specifically treated.
Both blood and saliva analyses are suitable for diagnosing testosterone deficiency or excess. According to Dr. Burkhardt, the latter offers advantages because only free, biologically active testosterone is measured. "An extensive hormone examination is important - including estradiol, progesterone and DHEA - to assess the hormonal balance."
Various measures can be considered for treating a deficiency: "The basis is a healthy lifestyle - with sufficient micronutrients such as zinc, magnesium, iron, vitamin D3 and B6," emphasizes the expert. Plant extracts from maca or ginseng can also have a supportive effect.
"In cases of severe symptoms, transdermal testosterone can be used - but currently only 'off-label'. This means they are used although they are not officially approved for this application." Injections or oral preparations are unsuitable for women.
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Premium complex with vitamin B6 to regulate hormonal activity, vitamin D to maintain normal bones, and vitamin B12. By Sunday Natural, 60 capsules, approx. €19.90
Synergistic mineral complex with magnesium plus zinc. From Sunday Natural, 120 capsules, approx. €12.90
20,000 IU Vitamin D3 per tablet as vegetarian premium D3 from specially pure custom-made production without additives. From Sunday Natural, 180 tablets, €9.90
