Women & Cold exposure: Testosterone

While testosterone is commonly associated with men, it plays a vital role in women's health as well. It is produced in smaller amounts by the ovaries and adrenal glands. Although women have about one-tenth the testosterone levels of men, it remains essential for various physiological functions. In fact, women produce three to four times more testosterone than estrogen.

While men produce it in their testes, only 25% of testosterone is being made in the ovaries of females. The other 75% is being produced in the adrenal glands, skin and fatt cells.

It seems that cold exposure has great benefits for the elevation of testosterone in men as well as women. A good level of testosterone seems to be beneficial for women’s health.

Key Functions of Testosterone in Women

1. Sexual Health

   • Supports libido, sexual desire, and arousal.

   • Contributes to overall sexual satisfaction.

2. Muscle Mass and Bone Density

   • Helps maintain muscle mass and strength.

   • Supports bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

3. Mood Regulation and Mental Health

   • Impacts mood, helping to reduce anxiety and depression.

   • Low levels are linked to irritability and fatigue.

4. Energy Levels

   • Promotes overall energy and vitality.

   • Helps combat chronic fatigue.

5. Cognitive Function

   • Plays a role in concentration, memory, and cognitive clarity.

6. Metabolic Regulation

   • Influences fat distribution and supports a healthy metabolism.

   • Supports insulin sensitivity and helps manage weight.

Testosterone and Hormone Balance

Testosterone doesn't act alone—it interacts with estrogen, progesterone, and other hormones to maintain hormonal balance. An imbalance can impact mood, metabolism, sexual function, and overall vitality.

• During Menopause: Testosterone levels often decline, contributing to symptoms like low libido, muscle loss, and mood swings.

• WHM and Hormonal Impact: The WHM's stress-reducing and circulation-boosting effects might influence testosterone levels indirectly by modulating cortisol and improving hormone-signaling pathways.

We have had many reports of women where their libido has risen, most probably due to the testosterone boost.

One pain tolerance study of 2019, explored the effect of young women putting one hand in 2 degrees cold water. The effect was a significant boost of testosterone, of which women exhibited twice as much in their system than males.

This of course raises more questions:

• Does this rise in testosterone mean a reset of the hormonal system?

• Is there a balancing effect with regard to other hormones

• How does the rise in testosterone affect women’s confidence?