Summary
New research shows testosterone therapy in women may lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, blood clots, and breast cancer — while boosting vitality, energy, and sexual wellness. Discover what the science says and why it matters for women at every stage of life.
New research reveals how testosterone therapy may support women’s heart health, vitality, and sexual wellness at every stage of life.
Looking Beyond Estrogen in Women’s Heart Health
Building on my most recent article, “Testosterone and Recovery after Hip Fracture,” I wanted to share some fascinating new research I came across while reading a recently published paper on cardiovascular disease and female sexual health. The article, “Cardiovascular Disease and Female Sexual Health Across the Life Span: A Bidirectional Link” by Armeni and colleagues, appeared in the July 2025 edition of Maturitas.
What the Study Examined
This paper examined women with cardiovascular disease, exploring the risks and benefits of both hormonal and non-hormonal treatments in this population. Importantly, the authors didn’t just review menopausal hormone therapy (estrogen and progesterone) — they also analyzed the scientific evidence on testosterone use in women with cardiovascular disease.
Breaking the Myths About Testosterone
Just like estrogen therapy, testosterone therapy in women has been clouded by decades of misunderstanding and misinformation. Too often labeled a “male hormone,” testosterone’s role in women’s health is overlooked or dismissed — even by healthcare providers who may not be familiar with the latest research.
The Vital Role of Testosterone for Women
In reality, testosterone plays a vital role in women’s well-being. In my own practice, I have seen countless women regain their vitality after starting testosterone therapy — experiencing improvements in libido, mental clarity, energy, sleep, joint pain, motivation, and overall sexual function. I have personally treated hundreds of women with testosterone and have not seen an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, or blood clots. Still, as a science-driven physician, I turn to the medical literature to confirm what I observe in clinical practice.
What the Latest Evidence Shows
The newest research is encouraging for women considering testosterone therapy. In a large study, women who used testosterone had:
- 36% lower risk of major heart problems like heart attack, stroke, or death
- 39% lower risk of deep vein thrombosis (blood clots in the legs)
- 52% lower risk of pulmonary embolism (blood clots in the lungs)
- 52% lower risk of breast cancer
Age-Specific Findings
When researchers looked at women by age group:
- Ages 18–55 → Lower risk of heart problems and blood clots; breast cancer risk stayed the same
- Ages 56 and older → Heart and clot risks stayed the same; breast cancer risk was significantly reduced
Why This Research Matters for Women Everywhere
Bottom line? This comprehensive analysis supports what many of us who prescribe testosterone for women have long observed: testosterone therapy is not associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease or breast cancer. In fact, it may offer protective benefits in certain groups of women.
Your Heart, Hormones, and Health — Let’s Talk
If you’re experiencing symptoms of menopause or have questions about hormone therapy, our team is here to guide you. Schedule your consultation (form below) or call us at 309-692-6838—new patients are always welcome at the Couri Center. Let’s take the next step in your wellness journey, together.
To Your Health,
Dr. Couri
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Sources Used:
Armeni A, Lambrinoudaki I, Cano A, et al. Cardiovascular disease and female sexual health across the life span: a bidirectional link. Maturitas. 2025;198:106922. doi:10.1016/j.maturitas.2025.106922
Agrawal P, Singh SM, Hsueh J, et al. Testosterone therapy in females is not associated with increased cardiovascular or breast cancer risk: A claims database analysis. J Sex Med. 2024;21(5):414-419.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog article is intended for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided is current as of the date of publication or last review, but medical knowledge is constantly evolving, and the information may become outdated over time.