The hormone testosterone affects sexual desire for both men and women. Women have their peak levels of testosterone in their mid-twenties, but those levels start to decline. By their late-forties, women’s ovaries make much less testosterone, which can result in lower sex drive. This can also happen for women who have had their ovaries removed surgically.

Some women find that testosterone therapy helps restore their sexual desire. However, many other factors can decrease libido, including fatigue, depression, hypothyroidism, relationship problems, and medication side effects. It’s important to ensure that any of these issues, if present, are addressed.

Testosterone can be administered through pills, creams, and transdermal patches worn on the skin.

Women considering testosterone therapy should talk to their doctor.