High Testosterone in Women can result from various factors, including low testosterone levels, insulin resistance, and congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Treatment for high testosterone depends on the specific symptoms of the disease. This article discusses some of these conditions, their causes, and treatment options.
Insulin Resistance
Insulin resistance and high testosterone in women are associated with cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. The association between higher testosterone levels and these conditions may be due to different mechanisms. For example, elevated testosterone levels may affect the differentiation of pluripotent stem cells into adipocytes, which can result in insulin resistance. This association still needs to be formally tested.
A recent study found that postmenopausal women with higher testosterone levels were more likely to develop metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance. The findings were consistent after controlling for age and BMI. The study also found that women with high testosterone levels were more likely to have coronary heart disease.
Steroid Use
Steroid use for high testosterone in women is often linked with various potentially harmful side effects. This study explored the experiences of sixteen women who have used anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) in the past or present. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and the data was then analyzed thematically. The results show that using anabolic-androgenic steroids has several side effects that are often unwanted and potentially harmful to women.
This study determined steroid levels using deuterated isotopes of testosterone, DHEA, and oestrone. DHEA sulfate, the most abundant steroid in women’s blood, decreased almost linearly with age. In addition, women with low DHEA levels may have poorer overall health.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multifactorial disorder that affects 6-12% of women of reproductive age. Patients with PCOS have an elevated testosterone level and enlarged ovaries with multiple follicles. Women with this condition are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and insulin resistance. They also are at increased risk of endometrial cancer.
Although there is no universally accepted definition of the condition, the presence of high testosterone levels is one of the diagnostic criteria for PCOS. This is due in part to the poor quality of testosterone immunoassays. However, researchers have developed liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry methods to measure female testosterone levels. In addition, they have studied the diagnostic utility of blood samples taken from patients during the early follicular phase. Blood samples are also collected from patients to measure LH and oestradiol levels. In addition, retrospective case note analysis of ultrasound findings has helped determine whether the condition exists.
Other Causes
If you have been experiencing high testosterone levels in women, you may have a medical condition such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Women with this condition are often at risk of infertility and an irregular menstrual cycle. A test is the best way to find out if you have PCOS.
High testosterone levels in women can be due to several different things. Some more common causes include polycystic ovary syndrome, a genetic disorder resulting in enlarged ovaries that do not produce eggs. The condition can lead to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, depression, and infertility. High testosterone in women may also lead to hirsutism, a condition characterized by excessive hair growth that often affects the face and chest. Other symptoms of high testosterone in women include breast size, deep voice, and facial hair.
Treatments
High testosterone levels in women are caused by many conditions, but one of the most common is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or PCOS. This hormonal disorder affects one in ten women. Its symptoms include excessive body hair and irregular periods, making it difficult to get pregnant. It can also lead to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity.
High testosterone levels in women can also be caused by Cushing’s syndrome, which causes the adrenal glands to release too much testosterone. Some symptoms of this condition include weight gain around the midsection, purple stretch marks on the abdomen, and a fat mass on the back of the neck. A doctor may diagnose Cushing’s syndrome by checking the levels of hormones in urine, blood, and saliva. Medications may also be prescribed, as well as dietary changes and supplements.
Low Testosterone Levels
Women with low testosterone levels can experience a variety of symptoms. Often, these symptoms mimic the more common signs of aging. For example, a woman with low testosterone may experience mood swings and depression. Treatment with testosterone replacement therapy can improve these symptoms and improve overall well-being. For this reason, women often consider prescription medications to treat their low testosterone levels.
Other causes of low testosterone levels in women include using certain opioids, some congenital conditions, and diabetes. In many cases, hormone replacement therapy is necessary. This treatment will require follow-up appointments and a blood test.
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
The adrenal glands are two cone-shaped organs on top of the kidneys. They produce hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism, immune system, blood pressure, and stress response. When one of these glands is missing, the body has excessive testosterone and aldosterone. This leads to early puberty and the development of male characteristics. This condition can also be hereditary.
Treatment for this condition usually involves the lifelong use of steroids. Although current therapies mimic the normal biology of the adrenal glands, they can’t completely cure the disease. Most patients, though, will grow to be normal adults. Their fertility may also be affected, although modern medical advancements are making it possible to conceive with the help of artificial means.
