What is a risk associated with the use of testosterone in women?

Testosterone therapy in women can lead to a range of side effects, one of which is clitoral enlargement. This condition occurs because testosterone promotes the growth of tissues, including those in the genital area. Clitoral enlargement, also known as clitoromegaly, can be a sign of excessive androgen exposure in females. It often arises when using testosterone to address health issues such as low libido or hormonal imbalances, particularly if dosages exceed therapeutic levels or if the therapy is not properly managed.

In contrast, while high blood pressure and weight changes can occur as side effects of hormone therapies, they are less directly associated with testosterone than clitoral enlargement. Gynecomastia, which refers to the enlargement of breast tissue in males, is not typically a relevant concern for women receiving testosterone. Thus, clitoral enlargement is distinctly recognized as a significant risk of testosterone use in women, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring and dosing when employing hormone therapy.