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What is free testosterone in females?

Free testosterone in females refers to the unbound portion of testosterone in the bloodstream, which is the biologically active form of the hormone. Although women produce testosterone in much lower amounts than men, it still plays a crucial role in maintaining sexual function, muscle mass, bone density, and overall energy levels.

Testosterone in females is primarily produced by the ovaries and adrenal glands. Even small fluctuations in free testosterone can have a significant impact on health, including symptoms such as low libido, fatigue, and muscle weakness.

Why is free testosterone important?

Free testosterone is crucial for sexual health, muscle maintenance, bone density, and overall vitality in women. It helps regulate libido, energy, and mood.

Low free testosterone can contribute to symptoms like low libido, fatigue, reduced muscle strength, and even depression. High levels, often seen in conditions like PCOS, can cause symptoms such as acne, excessive facial hair, and irregular periods.

How can I better understand my free testosterone levels?

Free testosterone is usually measured alongside total testosterone. Total testosterone includes both free and bound testosterone, but free testosterone is the active form that is available to tissues. Understanding the difference is important because a woman may have normal total testosterone but still experience symptoms of testosterone deficiency if their free testosterone levels are low.

Normal free testosterone levels for women can vary depending on age, health status, and menstrual phase.

Lab Range:

  • Out of range (low): <1.1 pg/mL
  • In range: 1.1-12.9 pg/mL
  • Out of range (high): >12.9 pg/mL

SiPhox Range:

  • Good Range: 1.1-12.9 pg/mL

Since testosterone levels vary throughout a woman’s life, with a decrease occurring after menopause, it is important to evaluate free testosterone levels in the context of a woman’s age and symptoms. Conditions like PCOS or adrenal disorders can lead to high free testosterone levels, whereas conditions such as ovarian insufficiency can cause low levels.

How can I maintain optimal free testosterone levels?

To maintain optimal free testosterone levels, consider these lifestyle and dietary strategies:

Dietary Changes: A diet rich in lean proteins, healthy fats, antioxidant-rich foods, and hormone-supporting herbs like ginger and turmeric can support testosterone regulation. Including honey can help to increase lower testosterone levels. Spearmint tea may reduce excess testosterone, especially in women with conditions like PCOS. Zinc-containing foods like oysters and pumpkin seeds can also regulate testosterone.

Lifestyle Changes:  Avoiding chronic stressors, getting more and higher-quality sleep, and lowering abdominal fat percentage through a healthy regimen can help improve testosterone levels. Additionally, engaging in regular physical activity, including strength training and aerobic exercise, can help support hormone balance, muscle strength, and overall well-being. Practicing stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing exercises, and adequate sleep can also help support hormone balance and overall health.

Supplementation: Consuming saw palmetto or boron supplements can aid in increasing low testosterone in women. These supplements are not recommended in pregnancy or for individuals with kidney disease.

Where can I learn more?

DISCLAIMER: IF YOU ARE CONCERNED WITH ANY OF YOUR RESULTS, PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN.