Susan's Place Transgender Resources

I have been hypogonadic for nearly ten years.  I took testosterone shots for several years and eventually tapered off of T, and started estradiol valerate injections, supplemented by Oestrogel.

I still have my testicles, but evidently they are not producing any significant T.  I'm 64 years old.  According to my lab report my free T is at the lower limit for a woman my age.

Should I have a little exogenous testosterone to stay healthy?

Free Testosterone Levels

0.4 Low         pg/mL       (6.6-18.1)


Age               Male            Female

20-29 yrs:      19.0-41.0      0.9-3.2
30-39 yrs:      18.0-39.0      0.8-3.0
40-49 yrs:      16.0-33.0      0.6-2.5
50-59 yrs:      13.0-31.0      0.3-2.7
60-69 yrs:      11.0-26.0      0.4-2.2
70-79 yrs:      10.0-25.0      0.2-2.0

Randi

         

I personally think that if you take enough estrogen to replace T, you should be alright. Estrogen prevents bone loss, maintains energy and libido, affects mood and cognition positively. If you feel fine, then I think it's ok. If you notice that anything is off, advise your doctor. Share your concerns with them as well. Who knows? Perhaps a minimum amount is, in fact, required.

I'm post-op and last time I checked, my free T was 1.44 pg/ml. I'm much younger though.