Monash University: Bone Density Study

A study to prevent bone loss and

restore sexual function in women with

primary ovarian insufficiency

Melbourne and Perth

As many as 4 in every 100 Australian women go through menopause before the age of 40

years. This loss of ovarian function is called premature ovarian insufficiency (POI).

Women with POI do not produce sufficient estrogen or testosterone necessary for good

bone health. They experience progressive bone loss, increasing their risk of osteoporosis

(weakened bone strength) and fractures at a young age.

Despite adequate estrogen replacement many women with POI also experience sexual dysfunction.

There is some evidence that the addition of testosterone to estrogen replacement therapy

might prevent bone loss and restore sexual function in women with POI, but convincing

evidence from well conducted trials is needed.

The purpose of this research is to determine whether the use of testosterone therapy, in a

dose we have shown restores testosterone levels to those of premenopausal women,

prevents bone loss and improves sexual function in women with POI who are taking the

standard dose of oestrogen.

This is a 12-month study using topical testosterone cream applied to the skin on women aged under 45 years with primary ovarian insufficiency (complete loss of ovarian function before age 40).

Your participation would involve 5 visits with blood collection and bone density scans

To participate or for further information 

Please contact:

Women’s Health Research Program

Monash University

Phone: (03) 99030827

Email: womens.health@monash.edu

The Women’s Health Research Program