Testosterone injections are sometimes used to help increase women's sex drive, a treatment approved in certain cases by the North American Menopause Society. But it is not the first line of treatment for women nor should it be prolonged. No long-term studies of testosterone in women have been completed, but what is known is that the hormone can have some fairly serious side effects in the short run that may be permanent if the course continues.
Hair
Women taking testosterone may experience male-pattern baldness, and women with thin hair are advised not to take it. The hormone can also result in the growth of facial and body hair.
Other Male Characteristics
Testosterone can make the voice lower and enlarge the clitoris.
Health Problems
Testosterone can cause liver damage in some women. In women who are also on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), testosterone can counteract the positive benefits HRT has on the cardiovascular system. Testosterone may also cause a change in mood or personality.
Warnings
Women of childbearing age and capability should use a reliable birth control method because testosterone can give female fetuses male characteristics. Many drugs, including warfarin, insulin and steroids can interact negatively with testosterone.
