YORK, Pa. — Testosterone for women has been all over headlines as prescriptions soar across the country.
"For some women, life get's flipped upside down. They become a person that they don't know who they are anymore," said Dr. Brittany Barker, with Body by Barker.
Trouble sleeping, weight gain, hot flashes.... some women call it menopause madness.
Hormone replacement therapy can help, and did you know that includes testosterone?
"That level will start declining as early as 35 or 40, so even way before you could get some of the other menopause symptoms," Dr. Barker explained.
Yes, women need testosterone and no, it won't make you manly.
Dr. Brittany Barker says the hormone plays a crucial role for both men and women in various functions like energy levels, mood regulation, muscle mass maintenance and sexual desire.
"Experts say at age 40 the level for women is about half the level it was in your 20's," she explained.
Dr. Barker says that's why she prescribes testosterone for her patients.
"You aren't alone, number 1, it's not too early and it is safe," she said.
The use of testosterone in women remains controversial however, with some experts cautioning that there isn't enough long-term research on the risks.
Dr. Barker, however, argues hormone replacement therapy is safe for the right patient.
In fact, she's such a believer, she takes it herself.
"Of all the hormones, one hormone to stay on the rest of my life, it would be testosterone.. I love it. It makes me feel like I'm 20 again… it's crazy," she said.
For more information on hormone replacement therapy or Body By Barker, click here.