Not only does testosterone contribute to masculine characteristics such as body hair and muscle development, but it also affects the physical and mental well-being of women. A decline in this hormone can lead to sexual desire disorders, premenstrual syndrome, and osteoporosis.
Currently, contraceptive pills are considered the most effective tool in family planning and are widely used around the globe, with more than 100 million women using them regularly. For a long time, the side effect of reduced sexual desire has been known. However, a recent study published in New Scientist suggests that the decrease in sexual desire among women may occur even more frequently.
According to research results from Boston University (USA), the use of contraceptive pills can lead to reduced desire even after stopping the medication. A group of specialists surveyed 125 women, including 62 who used contraceptive pills, 40 who had previously used them, and 23 who did not use any form of contraception. The results showed that contraceptive pills increase the levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which in turn reduces testosterone levels.
The SHBG levels in users of the pills were found to be seven times higher than in non-users. For women who had stopped using the pills, SHBG levels remained elevated, three to four times higher than in those who did not use them. According to Irwin Goldstein, the head of the research team, contraceptive pills decrease testosterone, making it difficult to reach orgasm and can even cause pain during intimacy.
How to Supplement Testosterone?
Using testosterone patches: Women approaching menopause sometimes experience difficulties in their sexual lives. To improve this condition, one solution is to use patches containing the male hormone testosterone. According to a study in the USA, testosterone patches help enhance desire in menopausal women.
Dr. Robin Kroll, a gynecologist in Seattle, conducted a survey of 549 menopausal women with an average age of 54 living in Seattle, Denver, Boston, Canada, and Australia. All participants reported a lack of interest in sexual activity. These women were given either testosterone patches or a placebo for six months and then answered detailed questions about their intimate lives. The results showed that those using testosterone had intimacy with their partners four times more often than those using the placebo. They also reported greater comfort, increased desire, and less pain due to vaginal dryness associated with menopause.
Testosterone Spray: The company that developed the patches has collaborated with Australian scientists to test a new drug formulation, a spray containing testosterone, for younger women experiencing libido issues. Professor Susan Davis from Monash University tested the testosterone spray on 261 women exhibiting low testosterone levels, who no longer enjoyed a satisfying sexual life.
Over 16 weeks, these women applied a daily dose of testosterone spray to their skin for absorption into the body; simultaneously, another group used a placebo for comparison. Throughout the trial, the women recorded their instances of intimacy and levels of satisfaction compared to the beginning of the treatment. The results from this study bring hope for a drug for women that could compete with Viagra in the global market.
