Testosterone is a hormone that gives men their sexual characteristics. Women have small amounts of testosterone in their bodies as well. When women enter menopause, all of the sex hormones -- estrogen, progesterone and testosterone -- significantly decrease, according to the Women's Health Program at Monash University. For some women, testosterone supplementation during menopause may help with some of the complaints associated with the condition, according to Project-AWARE.org. Using too much testosterone supplementation can cause some adverse effects in women.
Acne
Excess testosterone supplementation can lead to the development of acne, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Testosterone causes virilization in men, or the developing of male characteristics. Excess levels can cause some of the same changes in women and one of the effects of virilization is acne, according to Drugs.com. Women who already have problems with acne should not use testosterone, according to the Jean Hailes Foundation for Women's Health.
Changes in Hair Growth on Head and Body
Another effect of virilization is a change in hair growth. Women can develop male pattern baldness as a result of excess testosterone, according to the University of Michigan Health System. For women with very thin scalp hair, excess testosterone supplementation may cause more hair loss; these women may decide to avoid this supplementation, according to the Jean Hailes Foundation for Women's Health. These women can also develop excess hair growth on the body, face and chest. Many of these changes will reverse after discontinuation of the supplementation.
Hostility
Normal levels of testosterone in women may promote self-confidence, according to Project-AWARE.org. Excess testosterone can cause issues with hostility or anger in women, according to University of Michigan Health System. These women may also notice other mood problems like anxiety or depression. These symptoms typically resolve after stopping the testosterone or adjusting the dosage.
Body Changes
Women who use take an excess of testosterone supplements may develop changes in the make-up of their bodies. The higher testosterone levels can cause shrinking of the breasts, according to University of Michigan Health System. The levels may also cause the clitoris to enlarge in size as well. According to MayoClinic.com, clitoral enlargement may not reverse after discontinuing of the testosterone supplementation.
Deeper Voice
Another component of virilization is the deepening of the voice. Some women who take excess testosterone may develop hoarseness or deepening of the voice, according to the MayoClinic.com. This side effect may not resolve after stopping the therapy, according to University of Michigan Health System.
