Testosterone, a hormone that’s usually associated with males, is also present and essential in females, though in less quantity. While it plays an important role in various physiological functions such as regulation of libido, maintenance of bone density, and development of muscle mass, an excess of testosterone in females can lead to several health issues. Therefore, it’s important to reduce high testosterone in females and maintain a proper hormone balance.

In females, testosterone is produced in small amounts by the ovaries and adrenal glands. Normal testosterone levels in women range from 15 to 70 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). When levels go above this range, it can result in a condition known as hyperandrogenism.

Causes of High Testosterone in Females

Several factors can lead to elevated testosterone levels in women:

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):

PCOS is one of the most common causes of high testosterone in females. It is a hormonal disorder characterized by enlarged ovaries with small (and sometimes large) cysts (follicles). Women with PCOS often experience menstrual irregularities, weight gain, hirsutism, and infertility.

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH):

CAH is a genetic disorder that affects the adrenal glands – leading to an overproduction of androgens, including testosterone. Symptoms can vary from person to person, but they often include early onset of puberty and in severe cases, ambiguous genitalia.

Androgen-Secreting Tumors:

Tumors in the ovaries or adrenal glands can produce excess testosterone. These tumors are rare but can result in significantly elevated androgen levels. This can often lead to a rapid onset of symptoms.

Medications:

Certain medications, such as anabolic steroids or testosterone therapy, can increase testosterone levels.

Symptoms of High Testosterone in Females

Excessive testosterone can manifest through various physical and emotional symptoms:

• Hirsutism: Excessive hair growth in areas where men typically grow hair, such as the face, chest, and back.
• Acne and Oily Skin: overstimulated sebaceous glands – leading to increased oil production and severe acne.
• Menstrual Irregularities: Irregular periods or even amenorrhea (absence of menstruation).
• Weight Gain and Obesity: Particularly around the abdomen, which can increase the risk of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.
• Voice Deepening and Muscle Mass Increase
• Mood Swings and Emotional Changes: Irritability, anxiety, and depression.

If left untreated, high testosterone levels in females can lead to serious long-term health issues:

• Infertility
• Cardiovascular Disease
• Endometrial Cancer

Remedies

Spearmint

Spearmint is a well-known remedy for high testosterone as well as hirsutism. In a clinical trial, the consumption of spearmint tea, twice a day, for one month resulted in a significant reduction in both free and total testosterone levels in women with PCOS (see study). In another study, it was found to be highly effective for improving the symptoms of hirsutism (see study).

Myo-Inositol

Myo-Inositol is a sugar, also known as Vitamin B8, that improves the conversion of testosterone into estrogen and also helps lower circulating insulin levels which may also help with maintaining healthy testosterone levels. Supplementation with Inositol has been found to be very effective for improving the symptoms of PCOS (see study) and hirsutism (see study)

Minerals

Zinc & Selenium have both been connected to improving certain symptoms and biomarkers associated with elevated testosterone in women with PCOS. Zinc, particularly, has been found to improve alopecia (hair loss), hirsutism, and plasma MDA levels (see study). Selenium has been found to improve reproductive outcomes, DHEA, hs-CRP, and MDA levels (see study)

Lifestyle Changes:

Weight loss and a healthy low-carb diet can improve symptoms, particularly in women with PCOS.

Stress reduction is also important as stress hormones can negatively impact blood sugar as well as hormones. Yoga and pranayama, nature walks, and other relaxing activities can be utilized to help counter stress.

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by Dr. Nishal R.
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