High Testosterone in females: causes, symptoms, and more

Selective peripheral tissue response to high testosterone levels in an infertile woman without virilization signs

Verywell Health prefers to use inclusive terminology for sex and gender. For the purposes of this article, “women” refers to people born with the reproductive organs typical for females (such as a vagina, uterus, and ovaries). This definition does not take into account their gender or gender identity. The benefits of testosterone for women include stronger bones, improved ovary function (more regular periods), and possibly a clearer mind, better mood, higher sex drive, and more energy.

Being aware of these signs can help you seek timely medical intervention. When you’re stressed, your body produces cortisol, which can interfere with testosterone production. Try to take steps to manage your stress, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or spending time outdoors. Studies have shown that women who engage in regular physical activity have temporarily higher testosterone levels than those who are sedentary.

A healthcare provider can provide additional support on medical and natural treatments based on a person’s unique health problems. There may be extra risks for women with cardiovascular or liver disease, or certain types of cancer. Typically, HRT supplements estrogen and progesterone (female hormones), but certain therapies can also deliver testosterone. A person should contact a doctor if they experience signs or symptoms of high testosterone. The doctor can order tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the underlying cause. Testosterone acts on muscle cells by binding to a specific receptor protein, the androgen receptor. Upon testosterone binding, the androgen receptor signals to the muscle cell to activate the pathways that trigger an increase in muscle mass, called muscle hypertrophy.

High testosterone in males can cause a variety of signs and symptoms, including acne, increased sex drive, excessive facial and body hair, mood changes, infertility, and more. Certain medications, such as oral contraceptives and corticosteroids, can affect testosterone cypionate canada (https://behaviortherapyassociates.com) levels in women. Birth control pills, for example, may lower testosterone levels, while corticosteroids can increase testosterone levels. It’s important to talk to your doctor about any medications you’re taking to determine if they could be affecting your hormone levels. Women with PCOS may experience irregular periods, acne, weight gain, and excessive hair growth on their face, chest, or back.

Where this condition differs from other hormonal imbalances, though, is that it can actually lead to more severe issues like infertility or ovarian cysts. A variety of therapies can be used to treat acne in adolescents Table 1. As with hirsutism, multimodal therapy may be more effective, and response to therapy may take several months. Working with a dermatologist can be beneficial for patients with moderate-to-severe acne or acne refractory to initial medical therapy. Acne treatment algorithms often show topical therapy as a first-line approach. Many patients will have tried multiple over-the-counter topical regimens before coming to their obstetrician–gynecologists.

The common conditions present in metabolic syndrome include excess body fat especially around the waist, elevated blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, and high cholesterol or triglyceride levels. The researchers noted that the study highlights the importance of sex-specific analyses on testosterone levels and their effect on health. Because testosterone can influence sexuality, you may notice changes in your sexual health if you have high testosterone levels, including a reduced sex drive, vaginal dryness, or difficulty getting pregnant. High testosterone levels in women can manifest through a variety of physical and emotional symptoms.

The information contained herein is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Get support for every stage of your reproductive health journey, delivered right to your doorstep. For excess hair on the face, a topical prescription can help to slow the growth of hair.

More than a third of men over age 45 may have reduced levels of testosterone than might be considered normal (though, as mentioned, defining optimal levels of testosterone is tricky and somewhat controversial). For example, if your partner is using a topical testosterone therapy, it can make your own levels rise. Antiepileptics could also raise levels as will using anabolic steroids.

Dr. J. Broad for a personalized plan. Blood tests can determine testosterone levels, guiding the appropriate course of action to manage and lower testosterone effectively. Techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness can help manage stress and maintain hormonal balance.