Episode 4: Testosterone: Confidence and Libido...

In this episode, Kate Thomas, an AHPRA-registered pharmacist with 25 years of clinical experience, covers:

• What testosterone actually does in women and why it is not a male hormone
• Why testosterone levels decline during perimenopause and menopause
• The evidence-based role of testosterone in HRT for women
• Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD), what it is, how common it is and why it is so under-treated
• Safety, side effects and monitoring of transdermal testosterone including AndroFeme
• Why testosterone does not cause rage but can reduce people-pleasing
• Natural testosterone boosters, DHEA supplements and adrenal support blends debunked

Testosterone is almost always framed as a male hormone, but women produce it too, and it plays a significant role in libido, energy, motivation, muscle strength, bone density and confidence. During perimenopause and menopause, testosterone levels gradually decline, and for many women this shows up as reduced sex drive, lower motivation and decreased physical and mental energy. Kate explains the full picture in Episode 4, including what the evidence actually says about testosterone therapy for women navigating midlife hormonal changes. 

Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder, or HSDD, is one of the most under-treated conditions in women's health. In this episode Kate breaks down what HSDD actually is, why it is a clinical diagnosis rather than a blood test result, and why the contrast between how easily erectile dysfunction is treated in men versus how dismissed low libido is in women is one of the more infuriating inequities in healthcare. Testosterone therapy, including transdermal options like AndroFeme, is an evidence-based treatment for HSDD that is available in Australia with appropriate medical oversight. 

For women considering testosterone therapy, understanding the safety profile, side effects and monitoring requirements is essential. Kate covers this in practical detail in Episode 4, explaining how transdermal testosterone differs from other forms and what to expect if you and your GP decide it is the right option. A telehealth pharmacist consultation can help you understand your options and prepare the right questions before your appointment. 

Episode 4's Wellness Woo of the Week takes aim at natural testosterone boosters, DHEA supplements and adrenal support blends. Kate explains why these products are often less safe, less predictable and less evidence-based than properly prescribed testosterone therapy, and why supplements that claim to boost testosterone naturally are essentially hormone roulette. The difference between oral DHEA, vaginal DHEA and prescription testosterone is also covered clearly and practically. 

If this episode has raised questions about testosterone, libido, HSDD or your HRT options, a telehealth pharmacist consultation with Kate is a great next step. In a dedicated one-on-one session you can go through your symptoms, your current medications and your treatment options in plain language, without rushing. 

Kate Thomas offers a range of in-depth telehealth medication consultation and medication review services to help you understand your body and your medications.

You can view the transcript for Episode 4 below