Androgen Deficiency in Postmenopausal Women

Park, Kye Seon; Kim, Moon Jong

Abstract

In contrast to previous dogma, the decline in testosterone levels in postmenopausal women is thought to be age-related and not a specific function of the menopause. In addition to normal aging, many conditions affecting ovarian and adrenal function, factors leading to increased SHBG levels can decrease androgen levels below the physiologic range in women. Clinical symptoms of female androgen deficiency include a loss of libido, lack of well-being, and persistent fatigue. However, the diagnosis of female androgen deficiency, as recently provided by the Princeton consensus statement, is under debate due to several limitations. Testosterone therapy in postmenopausal women with symptoms suggestive of androgen deficiency remains controversial. The adverse effects of testosterone therapy appear to be low in incidence, but more studies are necessary to assess long-term safety. Therefore, the decision to treat or not to treat androgen deficiency in postmenopausal women must be carefully considered on an individual basis by comprehensive evaluation of potential benefits and risks.