Is Androfeme safe for women?

Yes, when prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional, Androfeme is considered safe for women, with minimal side effects when used appropriately.

Will it cause unwanted hair growth or weight gain?

Some women may notice mild hair growth, but this is usually only if the cream is applied to the same spot every day. Rotating application sites can help prevent this.Weight gain is not a common side effect when used appropriately.

How long does it take to work?

Some women notice changes within a few weeks, but it may take up to 12 weeks to feel the full effects.

Do I need to be on HRT to take Androfeme?

Yes you need to have tried HRT. It’s usually considered when oestrogen therapy alone hasn’t helped with low libido. Your clinician will help decide what’s right for you.

Is it available on the NHS?

Currently, Androfeme is not widely available on the NHS and is often prescribed privately.

Do you need a blood test?

Yes, baseline and follow-up blood tests (measuring total testosterone and sex hormone binding globulin, SHBG) are recommended to monitor therapy to ensure safety.

Androfeme

Learn what Androfeme is, its benefits and how to use it safely.

Medically reviewed by Dr Zahra Khan

MBBS, MSc (Dist)

Updated on 1st August 2025

What is Androfeme?

Androfeme is a 1% testosterone cream formulated for women and applied to the skin to gently restore testosterone to premenopausal levels. Testosterone is a key hormone involved in sexual desire, energy, mood, and general wellbeing. It’s typically considered after menopause when women experience low libido that hasn’t improved with standard HRT (hormone replacement therapy).

While Androfeme is not currently licensed for use in women in the UK, it can be prescribed off-label by experienced clinicians in line with current guidelines from the British Menopause Society (BMS).

Why is Testosterone prescribed?

Sometimes, even after starting HRT, sex still feels like it’s fallen off your radar. If that loss of interest is ongoing, upsetting for you, and not explained by relationship issues or other health problems, it may be something called hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD).

The British Menopause Society (BMS) says testosterone can be considered for women with HSDD when optimising standard HRT hasn’t helped. In this case, testosterone isn’t about “boosting” beyond normal — it’s about restoring a hormone your body naturally makes, to a healthy female range, so you can feel more like yourself again.

How to use Androfeme

Instructions for use

Everything you need to know to safely use Androfeme

1 Improved libido

2 It may increase energy levels

3 It may support memory, focus, and mental clarity

4 It may maintain muscle mass and reduce the risk of osteoporosis

5 It could improve mood and reduce anxiety or irritability

This page is provided for reference purposes only. Always follow the advice and guidance of your prescribing doctor regarding your medication and prescriptions. Do not make any changes to your medication regimen without consulting your healthcare provider.

Androfeme

What is Androfeme?

Why is Testosterone prescribed?

How to use Androfeme

Benefits of Androfeme

Frequently asked questions