General health information, last reviewed October 2026
Many people think of testosterone as a male hormone. In fact, women make it too, and it’s one of the main sex hormones in the female body. A 2026 review in the journal Sexual Medicine Reviews summarised the research on what testosterone does in women. Here’s an overview of what it found and what it means.
Where women’s testosterone comes from
Women produce testosterone in the ovaries and adrenal glands, and the body also makes it from other hormones in tissues such as fat and skin. The ovaries keep producing some testosterone after menopause.
Levels fall gradually with age. Some things can lower them further, including:
- surgical removal of both ovaries
- some hormonal contraceptives and oral oestrogen
- oral corticosteroid (steroid) medicines
What testosterone may do in the body
The review looked at research linking testosterone to several body systems. It’s important to know that much of this research shows associations, meaning the two things occur together. It doesn’t prove that testosterone causes these effects.
- Bones and muscles: testosterone is involved in building and maintaining bone and muscle.
- Brain and mood: some studies link healthy testosterone levels with memory and mood in older women. This research is at an early stage.
- Pelvic and urinary health: testosterone receptors are found in vaginal and pelvic floor tissue, and lower levels have been associated with some types of bladder leakage.
- Sexual wellbeing: this remains the best-studied area.
- Other areas: researchers are also exploring links with the immune system, joint health and fertility. These are early findings and need more research.
What we still don’t know
The authors note that research on testosterone in women has real gaps:
- there are no agreed standards for measuring testosterone in women, and blood levels vary with age, menstrual cycle and other hormones
- many studies are small or observational
- more high-quality trials are needed before firm conclusions can be drawn
This review describes the biology of testosterone. It doesn’t recommend any particular treatment.
What this means for you
If you’re experiencing symptoms around perimenopause or menopause, such as low energy, changes in mood, low libido or changes in bladder or vaginal health, these can have many causes. A health practitioner can talk through your symptoms, your medical history and any tests that might be appropriate, and discuss the full range of options. Those options include lifestyle approaches, non-hormonal treatments and, where suitable, hormonal therapy.
Every person is different, and any treatment has potential benefits and risks that should be discussed individually.
Reference: Hernandez BS, et al. Beyond libido: the multifaceted role of testosterone in women. Sexual Medicine Reviews. 2026;14(4):qeag072. Read the review
This article is general information only and isn’t a substitute for individual medical advice. Please speak with a qualified health practitioner about your own circumstances.