70. Testosterone for Women: Benefits, Risks, and BS

In this episode, Dr. Jones is joined by Dr. Lauren Fitzgerald—an anesthesiologist-turned-functional medicine leader—to uncover the myths, science, and clinical pearls around testosterone therapy in women.

They explore why testosterone matters far beyond libido, how symptoms of deficiency often get dismissed or misdiagnosed, and what dosing, delivery, and lab markers really tell us. From estrogen dominance to perimenopause, cognitive function to confidence—this episode reveals how hormone optimization can be a game-changer for women at every stage of life.

Whether you’re a provider or a patient, this conversation offers evidence-backed clarity on a topic too often misunderstood.🔗 Learn more about Dr. Lauren Fitzgerald

https://www.larimarmed.com/https://www.instagram.com/drlaurenfitz/Connect with Dr. Greg JonesInstagram: @doctorjones_doctorjones Enovative Wellness Center: https://enovativewellness.com/ 🔬 Timestamps- Introduction to the episode and guest, Dr. Lauren Fitzgerald. (00:00 - 01:50)- Dr. Fitzgerald's story: Transitioning from anesthesiology to functional medicine. (01:50 - 06:06)- How optimizing her own hormones changed Dr. Fitzgerald's life and medical practice. (06:06 - 08:48)- Why is testosterone important for women, and why is it overlooked in traditional medicine? (08:48 - 13:35)- What are the most common signs and symptoms of low testosterone in women? (13:35 - 16:44)- The role of testosterone in brain function, memory, and mood. (16:44 - 17:40)- What are some surprising benefits of testosterone therapy in women? (17:40 - 19:13)- How often are low testosterone symptoms misdiagnosed or dismissed in women? (19:13 - 21:42)- What labs are essential for diagnosing low testosterone? (21:42 - 23:47)- Addressing common patient fears and side effects of testosterone therapy. (23:47 - 30:26)- Does taking testosterone negatively affect a woman's estrogen balance? (30:26 - 33:35)- Dr. Fitz debunks the top myths about testosterone use in women. (33:35 - 36:25)- Comparing delivery methods: Creams vs. injections vs. pellets. (36:25 - 43:22)- What are the optimal testosterone lab ranges for women? (43:22 - 47:47)- How treatment approaches differ for pre-menopausal, perimenopausal, and post-menopausal women. (47:47 - 49:47)- What does Dr. Fitz wish more women and their partners knew about testosterone? (49:47 - 50:20)- Advice for women on how to talk to their doctors about testosterone. (50:20 - 51:44)- What Dr. Fitz would tell her younger self just out of med school. (51:44 - 52:42)- Where listeners can find and learn more from Dr. Fitzgerald. (52:42 - 53:45)📣 Subscribe + Follow: Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe and leave a review. 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJonesNMDTV 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2QrMGwCIGo1kjdezfCyYDK?si=WhH4DW3oQw2k9qkfCtHZdQ  Disclaimer: The information shared on The Dr. Jones Optimization Podcast and its associated YouTube channel is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Listening to this podcast or viewing its content does not create a doctor–patient relationship, and nothing shared should be interpreted as individualized medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your health regimen or managing a medical condition. The opinions expressed by Dr. Jones and his guests are their own and do not reflect official medical advice or recommendations.