Understanding the Safety of Testosterone Therapy in Women: Insights from Recent Research

As a physician assistant dedicated to promoting peri-/menopause wellness, it's essential to stay informed about emerging research that impacts women's health. One such study is the 2024 analysis by Agrawal et al., published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine, which examined the safety of testosterone therapy (TTh) in women.

Key Findings from the Study

The researchers utilized the TriNetX Diamond Network, analyzing data from over 8,000 women who received systemic testosterone prescriptions. Their findings revealed:

• Reduced Risk of Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events (MACE): Women undergoing TTh had a 36% lower risk of experiencing heart attacks, strokes, or cardiovascular-related deaths compared to matched controls.pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

• Lower Incidence of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE): The risk of blood clots was significantly reduced in the TTh

• Decreased Risk of Malignant Breast Neoplasms: Women on TTh exhibited a 52% lower risk of developing breast cancer

• Age-Based Variations: While younger women (18-55 years) showed a lower risk of MACE and DVT, older women (56+ years) had similar cardiovascular risks to controls but still benefited from a reduced risk of breast

• Increased Risk of Hirsutism: A higher likelihood of developing excessive hair growth was noted in women receiving TTh

  
  

Interpreting the Results

We know that testosterone is a safe and effective treatment for women experiencing sexual dysfunction, fatigue, and joint pain. This study shows we can do so without increasing the risk of cardiovascular events or breast cancer.

The Importance of Personalized Care

While this study provides promising data, it's crucial to remember that hormone therapy is a personalized decision. Factors such as individual health history, symptom severity, and personal preferences should guide treatment choices. A thorough discussion with a healthcare provider is essential to determine the most appropriate therapy.

Conclusion

Testosterone therapy in women appears to be associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular events and breast cancer, according to recent research. Nonetheless, treatment decisions should always be made collaboratively between the patient and clinician, ensuring that all factors are considered to provide the best care.

For more information on hormone therapy and wellness, feel free to explore other articles on this blog and follow me on instagram at @themenopowerchick