Enlarged Clitoris and Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for women has become increasingly popular in recent years. Testosterone levels in women naturally decrease over time, and the decline accelerates as women reach menopause. Women suffering from low testosterone often experience decreased sexual desire, less sexual satisfaction, low mood, fatigue, and muscular weakness. By taking testosterone in the form of creams, pills, or pellets, women can return their hormone levels to a more harmonized state, helping to alleviate these symptoms. However, proper dosage is of utmost importance in order to minimize unwanted side effects.

A common side effect of testosterone replacement therapy for women is an enlarged clitoris, also referred to as clitoromegaly. While a small amount of enlargement of the clitoral tissue may not bother some women, some may find that the change in appearance is drastic enough to be bothersome. There are several options available to women for whom clitoromegaly is problematic, and the best place to start is by checking in with the doctor managing your hormones.

Finding the right dosage for hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is crucial for striking the right balance of wanted and unwanted effects of the treatment, and it is not uncommon for some trial and error to be necessary. For individuals that are happy with the results of their treatment overall but still bothered by their enlarged clitoris, clitoropexy is a surgical option for treating clitoromegaly.

Clitoropexy is a procedure in which the erectile tissue of the clitoris is elevated, which tucks the clitoris farther under the clitoral hood. This has the effect of the clitoris itself being less exposed, making it less prominent. The procedure has no impact on the sensitivity of the clitoris itself, as it does not entail making any direct changes to the erectile tissue – rather, the desired effect is achieved by tightening and sculpting the surrounding tissue. It is worth noting that many Austin Urogynecology patients choose to combine clitoropexy with other procedures like labiaplasty, prolapse repair, or vaginal rejuvenation.

If you have questions about clitoromegaly, clitoropexy, or testosterone replacement therapy for women, don’t hesitate to contact Austin Urogynecology today to schedule a free consultation. We will discuss your symptoms and evaluate the severity of any pelvic floor conditions you may be suffering from in order to determine a treatment strategy that takes your individual needs and concerns into account.