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Many women notice shifts in their energy levels, experience fatigue, and observe changes in their libido as they approach and go through menopause. These experiences are common during this life stage and can significantly impact daily well-being.
Understanding the potential underlying factors, particularly hormonal changes, can help women better navigate these aspects of menopause. This article explores some of the reasons why these changes may occur.
Understanding Menopause and Hormonal Shifts
Menopause is a natural biological transition marked by the cessation of menstrual periods, typically diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period. This transition involves significant fluctuations and eventual decline in various hormone levels produced by the ovaries.
While estrogen is a widely recognized hormone associated with menopause, other hormones, including androgens, also undergo changes. These hormonal shifts are central to many of the symptoms and experiences during this time.
Low Energy and Fatigue: More Than Just Feeling Tired
Experiencing low energy and fatigue during menopause can be multifaceted. While the exact interplay of all factors is complex, hormonal changes are often considered a significant contributor. Fluctuating and declining estrogen levels may play a role in how the body regulates sleep, mood, and energy metabolism.
Sleep disturbances are frequently reported during menopause, which can directly contribute to feelings of fatigue. Conditions like insomnia, for instance, can affect women navigating menopause [1]. Inadequate or disrupted sleep can profoundly impact daily energy levels, making it harder to feel rested and engaged.
It’s important to differentiate between occasional tiredness and persistent fatigue. Fatigue in menopause can be described as a profound lack of energy that isn’t always relieved by rest. This can affect physical and mental stamina, making everyday tasks feel more challenging.
Changes in Libido During Menopause
Changes in sexual desire, or libido, are another common experience during menopause. Many women report a decrease in libido, which can be influenced by a combination of physical and psychological factors.
Hormonal shifts, particularly in androgen levels, are thought to contribute to changes in sexual desire. Androgens, such as testosterone, are present in women and play a role in libido. During menopause, the ovaries produce fewer androgens [PMID 12112971, PMID 14644837]. This decline in androgen levels, specifically testosterone, may be a factor in reduced sexual desire in some postmenopausal women [2].
Additionally, other menopausal symptoms, such as vaginal dryness, discomfort during intercourse, or changes in body image, can indirectly affect libido. Addressing these related concerns may be helpful for some women.
The Role of Androgens in Menopausal Symptoms
While estrogen often receives the most attention during discussions of menopause, the role of androgens is also significant. The ovaries produce androgens, and their production decreases as women go through menopause [PMID 12112971, PMID 14644837].
Testosterone is a key androgen that contributes to sexual desire and overall well-being. A decline in testosterone levels in postmenopausal women has been observed and may be associated with hypoactive sexual desire disorder [2]. Research has explored the potential of androgen replacement in menopause [3].
Another androgen, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), is also produced by the adrenal glands and gonads, and its levels also decline with age. DHEA replacement therapy has been a subject of research [4].
References
- Insomnia in Women Surviving Breast and Gynecological Cancers-A Narrative Review to Address the Hormonal Factor. Cancers, 2025
- The clinical management of testosterone replacement therapy in postmenopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder: a review. International journal of impotence research, 2022
- Androgen replacement in menopause. Current women’s health reports, 2001
- Dehydroepiandrosterone replacement therapy. Seminars in reproductive medicine, 2004
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice; consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any supplement. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
