Titanic star Kate Winslet shared her experience with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) during a recent podcast interview. When she reached her late 40s, she discussed how the therapy helped restore her sex drive. “Sometimes women have a real drop in libido because they can have a problem with their thyroid,” she explained on the September 10 episode of How to Fail with Elizabeth Day. “There can also be a problem with your testosterone levels.”
Winslet emphasized that many people don’t know that women also produce testosterone, although in smaller amounts. “When it’s gone – like eggs – it’s gone,” she said. “Once it’s gone, you have to replace it, and that’s something that can be done. You’ll feel sexy again.”
Testosterone Therapy
Testosterone therapy involves supplements of testosterone, a hormone produced primarily in the testes of men and to a lesser extent in the ovaries of women. According to Dr Anamika Kawatra, gynaecologist and obstetrician at Rainbow Hospital, “TRT for women has gained attention, but it is important to understand its advantages and disadvantages before making a decision.”
Dr Rajeev Sood, chairman of urology at Marengo Asia Hospitals, explains that TRT can be administered via injection, patch, gel or implant. However, Dr Nancy Nagpal, consultant gynaecologist at Salubritas Medcenter, cautions that there are currently no established guidelines for this treatment in India, so careful consideration is a must.
Why do people use testosterone therapy?
Low testosterone (hypogonadism): Testosterone levels in men naturally decline with age. In some people, levels can drop significantly, causing symptoms such as fatigue, low libido, depression, and loss of muscle mass.
Menopause or hormonal imbalance in women: Women may seek TRT during menopause or because of conditions that affect their hormone balance. It increases their libido and sex drive.
Is Testosterone Therapy Safe?
TRT can be safe when performed under medical supervision, but it also has risks that need to be monitored. Healthcare providers typically monitor testosterone levels, blood pressure, cholesterol, and prostate health during therapy to prevent complications.
Benefit:
improved mood and energyMany users have reported a reduction in depression, anxiety, and fatigue.
Increased libido and sexual function: Many men experience an increase in sexual desire and performance.
Muscle Mass and Bone Density: Testosterone can increase muscle strength and improve bone density, which may reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
cognitive function: Some studies suggest that balanced testosterone levels can enhance attention and cognitive abilities.
Shortcoming:
Cardiovascular risk: There is ongoing debate over whether TRT increases the risk of heart attack or stroke, particularly in older men.
Prostate Health Concerns: Testosterone may stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells or cause benign prostate enlargement.
sleep apnea: TRT may worsen existing sleep apnea or lead to new cases in some users.
Mood changes: Some individuals may experience mood swings, increased irritability or aggression.
Testicular shrinkage: Long-term use may decrease natural testosterone production, resulting in testicular shrinkage.
