Q. What do you know about compounded testosterone cream? I am a 64-year-old woman with a very low libido.
A friend of a friend uses this cream before sex, applying it to the inner thighs. She has great results with desire and orgasms, but my gynecologist says it is not FDA approved and won’t prescribe it.
A. Low testosterone levels in men or women are associated with diminished sexual interest, arousal and enjoyment. Some small studies suggest that testosterone therapy may boost libido, even in women (Menopause, May-June, 2006). Too much of this male hormone can cause facial hair growth, acne, deepening of the voice and clitoral enlargement.
Your doctor is correct that the FDA has not approved testosterone for improving women’s sex drive. Nevertheless, a physician who specializes in sexual medicine may be able to assist you.
We are sending you our Guides to Female Sexuality and Treating Sexual Dysfunction for more information on the benefits and risks of testosterone to counter low libido.