I have been taking testosterone as a treatment for menopause symptoms for two years. I started on Testogel and then moved to Tostran. The Tostran is easier to apply because it is a pumped dose rather than a “blob” from packet of gel. Every few days, morning, along daily oestrogel (four pumps), I apply a blob of T gel to my arm or thigh.
The Tostran is made for men. There is no testosterone treatment available for women in the uk (yet), so we are prescribed a smaller dose. The gel sinks into my skin and dries.
Before being given the treatment, I had my testosterone levels checked (they were low) and I will have routine T level check ups through my GP. A level of 0.5nmol/L to 1.5nmol/L is considered within the “normal’ female levels. Before starting Tostran, my level was 0.4nmol/L.
What differences have I noticed?
There appear to be several benefits of taking testosterone treatment in menopause. First, my sleep has improved. I find I get more hours of quality sleep although I need to watch my alcohol intake and I have to have a comfortable sleeping set up.
No alcohol usually means a sleep of six to eight hours. If I have a drink, I end up waking up at 3.30am or 4.40am and can’t get back to sleep for at least an hour.
My sleeping set up must be calm and cool. I swear by Simba Mattresses because they are very comfortable. Then I have a fairly lightweight duvet that is covered in a cool cotton duvet. I am not a fan of hot bedrooms, so I switch the radiator to barely on.
I can sometimes even sleep though my husband’s snoring if I steer clear of alcohol and have a comfy bed!
I have also experienced lower anxiety levels. During the first few years of peri menopause and menopause, my anxiety levels rocketed. This affected my mood and relationship. With Tostran I feel as if my anxiety levels are back in the “normal” range.
I have better cognition and memory since starting Tostran. I have far fewer brain fog moments and much better concentration. I don’t think my brain is anywhere near as smart and sharp as in my 20s and 30s, but it’s a great deal better than my late 40s and early 50s. (I am 57 now).
I think I am stronger physically. I have been doing a lot more strength training in the past few years and i can’t say that i have developed larger muscles, but I feel generally stronger and more physically able It could be the gym work only or a combination of testosterone increase and gym work.
Negatives to taking testosterone supplement
I have noticed a few more hairs in the wrong places. I have stronger hair growth on my legs and a few extra upper lip hairs. But these are a small price to pay for the benefits, in my opinion.
