Low Testosterone in Women – REAL Results (+ what they actually mean!)

After 8 months of low mood, no energy, brain fog, and forgetfulness, I finally got put on testosterone.

I’ve been in menopause for 6 years now, and every time my bloodwork came back, especially for testosterone, it was always reported as “normal.”

But here’s the thing: even without ovaries (I had a total hysterectomy), your adrenal glands still make a little testosterone. Looking at my results, you’d think my adrenal gland was doing its job and everything was fine.

The truth? Low testosterone in women is often missed.

Why GPs Don’t Prescribe Testosterone

In the UK, most GPs can’t prescribe testosterone for women. It’s not licensed. The only approved reason is low libido (thanks to some outdated research about how women’s sex drives supposedly affect men 🙄).

There are exceptions though – some NHS areas do prescribe it. (I’ll add a pic of that list below!)

When I went to my GP, they first wanted me to try progesterone. I did, and while it gave me better sleep, it didn’t solve my other issues.

My Results – “Normal” But Still Low

When I finally got my bloods done, my testosterone came back “normal” – but right at the low end.

I put together a little table to help you understand testosterone results because honestly, it’s so confusing. Seeing that “0” is considered normal made me feel frustrated. How can 0 be normal?!

The reality is:

• Women don’t want to be at 0.
• Even the low end of “normal” can cause symptoms of low testosterone in women – like fatigue, brain fog, poor concentration, and low motivation.
• Just because your result is in range doesn’t mean you’re actually okay.

Testosterone Blood Test Terms Explained

1. Serum Testosterone

• The total amount of testosterone in your blood.
• Women make way less than men (typically 0.5–2.5 nmol/L).
• Sitting at the bottom end can still cause symptoms.

2. SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)

• A carrier protein that binds to testosterone.
• The higher your SHBG, the less free testosterone is available.
• Mine was mid-range, so okay, but still limiting.

3. Free Androgen Index (FAI)

• A calculation that estimates your “free” active testosterone.
• Normal range is 0.5–8% in women.
• Mine was technically normal… but right at the low end, where symptoms of low testosterone in women often show up.

Natural Ways to Support Low Testosterone in Women

If you suspect you have low testosterone, there are some natural ways to support your levels:

• Lift weights or do resistance training
• Eat enough protein
• Minimise stress where possible
• Get restful sleep
• Try zinc supplements (our Biotin + Zinc blend has your daily dose!)
• Cut down on alcohol

Conclusion – Low Testosterone in Women

Low testosterone in women is real, and it’s frustrating that many of us are told our results are “fine” when we feel far from it. Being in range isn’t the same as being optimal.

If you’re struggling with symptoms but keep hearing “your bloods are normal,” know that you’re not alone – and you can advocate for yourself.

I talk on TikTok lots about my experience with testosterone HRT – you can follow along and watch the playlist here.