‘It’s quite outrageous women don’t have this medication’

This means women are being treated for sexual dysfunction with testosterone that has been packaged for men. It results in having to divide a gel sachet over 10 days that a man would use in a day. The alternative is paying to go a private clinic for a ‘female’ prescription.

‘There is a testosterone cream called Androfeme, which is a regulated medication, but it has to be prescribed privately and costs around 80p a day,’ explains Dr Newson. ‘It’s quite outrageous that women don’t have a licensed testosterone preparation of their own, but I’m hoping this will change with time.’

HOW DOES A REPLACEMENT WORK?

In the UK, testosterone is classed as off-label medication for women – meaning it’s not licensed to treat menopausal symptoms. However, it can still be prescribed by specialists.

A cream or gel – usually Testogel, Tostran or Androfeme – is rubbed daily into clean, dry skin, usually on the lower abdomen or thighs. Treatment takes around three months to take full effect.

There is also the option of an implant, although this is only available privately and is costly. For example, menopausecliniclondon.co.uk offers it for £500, plus testing and consultations.

While this is frustrating for women in need, there is hope. According to the British Menopause Society, Australia has recently licensed a 1% testosterone cream – an encouraging development for women in other countries.

FEEL-GOOD FACTORS

For menopausal symptoms, such as low mood and a lack of focus, Meg Mathews, author of The New Hot (£16.99, Vermilion), champions the benefits of testosterone alongside her

HRT prescription. ‘It has helped so much with my energy and drive,’ she says. Testosterone plays an important role in the production of our happy hormones serotonin and dopamine, and studies have revealed it’s vital for brain health, adds Dr Newson.

A DELICATE BALANCE

With all types of hormone therapy, side effects should be considered, and testosterone is undoubtedly a powerful androgen.

‘Too much in women can cause bad temper and aggression, and it can also bring on acne and excessive body hair,’ explains Dr Gluck. But, provided it’s taken in the recommended doses, testosterone therapy is unlikely to cause extreme physical changes. NHS guidance states variable side effects are also related to menopause status, use of HRT and personal genetics.

Dr Newson advises seeing a doctor who specialises in the menopause if your GP isn’t sufficiently trained to prescribe testosterone – you can ask to be referred to your nearest NHS menopause clinic or go private. ‘It’s useful to have blood tests taken to determine that your testosterone levels are low, and women using testosterone should have their blood monitored regularly, usually every year,’ she says.

It’s also important to remember that contributing factors, such as past experiences and relationship issues, can influence sexual desire. Initially, it may be helpful to explore worrying thoughts and feelings around sex with a qualified therapist to identify if the cause is psychological, physical or a combination of both. This can be done alone or in couples counselling. Sex therapy isn’t available on the NHS but registered therapists can be found via your local Relate centre. Alternatively, opt for a web chat or phone chat session, which costs £30 for 30 minutes. Visit relate.org.uk.