Reviewed by Dr. Kenton Bruice, MD
Reading time: three minutes
During perimenopause and postmenopause, hormones begin to shift in ways that affect more than just mood or sleep. These changes influence how your body stores fat, builds muscle, and burns calories. Low testosterone in particular can contribute to weight gain and low energy.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
The Connection Between Hormones and Weight in Women
Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are sex hormones that play a key role in metabolism, energy, and body composition.
- Estrogen helps regulate fat distribution and supports bone health. When levels decline, the body tends to store more fat in the abdomen (visceral fat).
- Progesterone influences sleep, mood, and fluid balance. After ovulation stops, progesterone drops sharply, which can lead to disrupted sleep and stress-related weight changes.
- Testosterone supports lean muscle mass, bone density, energy, and metabolic function. Even small decreases can make a big difference in how your body burns calories and stores fat.
When these hormones shift during midlife, the result is often stubborn weight gain, fatigue, and changes in overall well-being.
How Low Testosterone Contributes to Weight Gain
For women, testosterone levels naturally decline with age, but when they dip too low, the impact can be significant:
- Loss of muscle mass: Less muscle means a slower metabolism.
- Increased abdominal fat: Fat distribution shifts toward the midsection.
- Reduced energy and motivation: Fatigue and low drive can make it harder to stay active.
These changes not only affect weight but can also influence confidence, mood, and energy levels.
What Are the Symptoms of Low Testosterone in Women?
Beyond weight gain, low testosterone can cause a wide range of symptoms that affect day-to-day life. These may include:
- Persistent fatigue and low energy
- Difficulty building or maintaining muscle
- Brain fog and trouble concentrating
- Mood changes, including irritability or sadness
- Low libido and reduced sexual satisfaction
- Sleep disturbances
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
If you notice several of these symptoms together, it may be time to consider whether hormone imbalance is playing a role.
Other Signs of Hormone Imbalance
Weight gain is only one piece of the puzzle. Low testosterone, combined with low estrogen and progesterone, may also cause:
- Mood swings or irritability
- Low libido
- Brain fog and poor concentration
- Trouble sleeping
- Decreased muscle strength
Recognizing these symptoms is an important step toward restoring balance.
Why Work With Dr. Kenton Bruice in Denver
At the Denver Hormone Institute of Colorado, Dr. Kenton Bruice takes a comprehensive approach. Instead of focusing on just one hormone, he evaluates estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid, and cortisol to understand the bigger picture.
Treatment may include:
- Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT)
- Medically supervised weight loss programs
- Lifestyle guidance for long-term health
Each plan is tailored to your unique needs, helping you feel more energized, balanced, and in control of your weight.
Start Your Journey in Denver Today
If you live in Denver and are struggling with stubborn weight, fatigue, or other symptoms of hormone imbalance, Dr. Kenton Bruice can help.
To book an appointment at the Denver Hormone Institute of Colorado, call (303) 957-6686 or complete the online inquiry form.
📍Other Locations
Centennial Hormone Institute of Colorado
7009 South Potomac St, Suite 111, Centennial, CO 80112
📞(314) 222-7567
St.Louis Hormone Institute of Missouri
9909 Clayton Rd, Suite 225 , St. Louis, MO.
📞(314) 222-7567
FAQs
Does low testosterone cause weight gain in females?
Low testosterone reduces muscle mass and slows metabolism, making fat storage, especially in the midsection, more likely.
What are the signs of low testosterone in women besides weight gain?
Symptoms include, but are not limited to, fatigue, brain fog, mood swings, low libido, and reduced muscle strength.
How do you check testosterone levels?
A simple blood test can measure testosterone along with other key hormones. This helps your provider see the full picture and determine whether low levels are contributing to your symptoms.
Where can I find hormone therapy in Denver?
The Denver Hormone Institute of Colorado, led by Dr. Kenton Bruice, offers personalized hormone care and weight loss programs.