“Excess Testosterone in Women: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options”

2023-05-07 17:00:00

Women also have a certain amount of testosterone. If there is an excess, it can have serious consequences. Those are the symptoms.

Increased irritability and mood swings can indicate excess testosterone. – Pexels

the essentials in brief

• Testosterone is considered the male sex hormone.
• Women also have a certain amount of testosterone in their bodies.
• If there is an excess of hormones, there are often visible and noticeable signs.
• Excess testosterone in women is treatable once you know the cause.

Testosterone is a hormone present in both men and women, but in varying amounts. In men, it plays a crucial role in the development of the male reproductive system, as well as promoting body hair growth and muscle growth.

In women, testosterone is responsible for the regulation of libido, bone formation, muscle mass and general well-being.

The following signs can indicate that a woman has an excess of testosterone:

Increased hair growth

One of the most noticeable consequences of elevated testosterone levels in women is increased body and facial hair, especially in areas like the chin, upper lip, or chest.

Acne

Elevated testosterone levels can lead to increased sebum production, which in turn clogs pores and causes acne.

hair loss

Too much testosterone can also lead to hair loss in women, similar to that in men. This is because the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) – a breakdown product of testosterone – can damage the hair follicles and cause hair to fall out.

menstrual cramps

High testosterone levels can lead to irregular menstrual cycles or even missed periods in women.

If the hormones are not in balance, it can lead to menstrual cramps – Pexels

mood swings

High testosterone levels can make women feel more aggressive, irritable, or cranky than usual.

weight gain

Testosterone is responsible for building muscle; however, an excess of this hormone can cause fat to build up instead of muscle, leading to weight gain.

Weight gain can be caused by excess testosterone. – Pexels

Decreased libido

Although testosterone is commonly known as the “sex hormone,” an excess of this hormone can actually lead to decreased libido in women.

muscle weakness

Too much testosterone can also lead to muscle weakness and a loss of muscle mass in women.

Causes of excess testosterone in women

There are various reasons why women can have elevated testosterone levels. One of the most common causes of excess testosterone in women is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which is a condition in which small cysts form on the ovaries and affect hormone production.

In rare cases, tumors in the ovaries or adrenal glands can lead to the formation of excess testosterone.

Some medications, such as androgenic steroids, can increase testosterone levels.

In this genetic condition, the body becomes less sensitive to androgens, which can lead to overproduction of testosterone.

Testosterone excess in women treatable

If a woman is found to have excess testosterone, she should first clarify the underlying causes and have them treated accordingly.

Depending on the cause, drug treatment, for example with anti-androgens or hormone preparations, can help regulate hormone levels.

Eating a healthy diet and getting enough exercise can help regulate hormone levels and reduce symptoms of excess testosterone.

Since stress can affect the production of testosterone, it is important to pay attention to stress management and to incorporate relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation or breathing exercises into everyday life.

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