Testosterone therapy for women going through menopause is one of the fastest-growing and most misunderstood areas of menopause care in the UK. It is also one of the most significant developments in hormonal health for women in recent years, with major changes in 2026 making it easier to access than it has ever been.
Why testosterone matters for women
Testosterone is not exclusively a male hormone. Women produce testosterone throughout their reproductive lives. It contributes to libido, sexual arousal, cognitive function, mood stability, energy levels, and motivation. Testosterone levels decline significantly during perimenopause and menopause.
What symptoms can testosterone therapy help with?
The symptom with the strongest evidence base is hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). NICE guidelines recommend testosterone supplementation for menopausal women with HSDD where HRT alone has not been effective. Many specialists also report improvements in fatigue, brain fog, low mood, and muscle weakness.
The 2026 licensing update: AndroFeme approved for UK women
AndroFeme, a testosterone cream formulated specifically for women, received UK MHRA approval in 2025, with UK commercial availability expected to expand in 2026. It is the first testosterone product licensed specifically for postmenopausal women with HSDD in the UK. It has been available in Australia since 2017 with an established track record.
How testosterone is currently prescribed for women in the UK
Currently available options include testosterone gels licensed for men (such as Testogel and Tostran) prescribed at approximately one tenth of the male dose. Testosterone is prescribed transdermally and almost always alongside oestrogen-based HRT rather than instead of it.
How to access testosterone therapy
Access through NHS primary care is inconsistent. Private menopause clinics, including online services, are the most reliable route. Blood tests are required before starting and must be monitored every three to six months thereafter.
Safety and side effects
When prescribed at appropriate female physiological doses and properly monitored, side effects are generally mild. Current evidence from transdermal testosterone use in women at physiological doses does not show an increased risk of breast cancer, cardiovascular disease, or venous thromboembolism. Proper monitoring is essential.
If you want specialist advice on testosterone, start by comparing menopause specialists, private menopause consultations, and online menopause clinics on The Menopause Directory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can women take testosterone for menopause?
Yes. Testosterone therapy is an established treatment for menopausal women in the UK, supported by NICE guidelines and BMS recommendations, primarily for hypoactive sexual desire disorder.
Is testosterone available on the NHS for women?
In principle yes, though access is inconsistent. Some GPs and NHS menopause clinics prescribe it. Private menopause specialists offer a more reliable route for most women.
What is AndroFeme and what is its UK status in 2026?
AndroFeme is a testosterone cream specifically formulated for women. It received UK MHRA approval in 2025 for postmenopausal women with HSDD, with wider commercial availability expected during 2026. NHS access may vary locally.
How long does testosterone therapy take to work?
It typically takes three to six months to fully evaluate whether testosterone therapy is effective. If no improvement is seen after six months, treatment should be stopped.
Is testosterone therapy safe for women in menopause?
When prescribed at appropriate physiological doses and properly monitored, current evidence does not show increased risk of breast cancer, cardiovascular disease, or blood clots.
What are the symptoms of low testosterone in women during menopause?
The most clinically recognised symptom is hypoactive sexual desire disorder. Other commonly reported symptoms include fatigue, poor concentration, brain fog, low mood, muscle weakness, joint pain, and difficulty sleeping.
How is testosterone prescribed for women in the UK?
As a transdermal preparation applied to the skin. Blood tests are taken before starting and monitored every three to six months to ensure levels remain within the normal female range.
Can I take testosterone if I am still perimenopausal?
Yes, though testosterone is not a contraceptive, and adequate contraception must be maintained by women who are not yet confirmed as post-menopausal.
How to use this information safely
Treatment decisions are personal and should be made with a qualified prescriber or clinician who understands your medical history, symptoms, preferences and risk factors. Do not start, stop or change prescribed medication based only on an online article.
What to prepare before an appointment
- Your main symptoms and how long they have been happening.
- Any period or bleeding changes.
- Current medicines, supplements and relevant medical history.
- What you want help with: sleep, mood, flushes, pain, sex, bladder symptoms, work impact or treatment review.
- Questions about benefits, risks, side effects, follow-up and what to do if symptoms change.
Where to get support next
If symptoms are affecting your sleep, work, relationships or day-to-day wellbeing, it is sensible to speak with your GP, pharmacist or a qualified menopause clinician. The Menopause Directory can also help you compare menopause symptoms hub menopause-informed counselling Ask MenoAI.
This guide is general information only and is not a diagnosis or personalised medical advice. Seek urgent medical help if symptoms feel severe, sudden or worrying.
Useful UK references: NHS menopause information, NICE menopause guideline NG23 and British Menopause Society publications.
Author: The Menopause Directory
About this guide
This guide is published by The Menopause Directory editorial team to help UK readers understand menopause symptoms, support options and services. It is for general information only and should not replace advice from a GP, pharmacist or qualified menopause specialist.
Last reviewed by The Menopause Directory editorial team.