Testosterone is one of the “male” sex hormone, however females can produce tiny amounts of it in the adrenal glands and the ovaries. A higher level of testosterone may increase the likelihood of body hair, acne and other signs. These could indicate an undiagnosed health issue.
Together with the female sex hormone estrogen, testosterone plays an important role in the development and maintaining the female reproductive tissue as well as bone mass. These hormones also impact the behavior of women.
The article below will find out about conditions that lead to the female body to produce more testosterone as well as symptoms and treatments.
‘Normal’ testosterone levels
As per the American Urology Association, average testosterone levels in the blood of men are at or above 300 nanograms/deciliter (ng/dL).
Females have lower levels of testosterone of testosterone, and the average level is thought at between 15 and 70 ng/dL..
The quantity of hormones created in the body vary every day as well as throughout the entire day. But testosterone levels are usually the highest in the early morning.
The signs of testosterone-rich in females
Females with testosterone imbalances may alter their appearance as well as general health.
Signs of testosterone deficiency in females include:
- acne
- deep voice
- excessive hair on the body and face
- Muscle mass increases
- irregular times
- more than average more clitoris
- loss of the libido
- mood swings
- reduction in the size of the breast
- thin hair
Extremely high testosterone levels in females could cause overweight or the infertility.
The causes of high testosterone in females
Females with high testosterone levels are generally due to an underlying medical issue for example:
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)
CAH refers to an assortment of inherited conditions which affect adrenal glands. These glands secrete the hormones cortisol and aldosterone, which play a role in managing metabolism and blood pressure.
Adrenal glands make testosterone and male sex hormones DHEA and testosterone.
The people with CAH are deficient in some of the enzymes needed in regulating the release of these hormones. As a result, they release less cortisol, and they produce too high levels of testosterone.
CAH can appear either mild (nonclassic CAH) or severe (classic CAH).
Females are more susceptible to female symptoms. consist of:
- deep voice
- the first signs of pubic hair
- The clitoris has been enlarged
- excessive body hair
- facial hair
- menstrual cycle irregular or absence of menstrual cycles
- severe acne
- shorter height for adults after rapid growth during childhood
Although there isn’t a cure for CAH but most patients with the condition be treated to lessen symptoms and enhance their quality of living.
Hirsutism
Hirsutism is characterized by unintentional male hair growth. It is a hormonal disorder that is believed to be connected to genetics.
The signs include male-pattern hair growth which is rough and dark. It usually impacts the following:
- to the back
- chest
- face
In the case of an excessively high testosterone levels, other signs will be evident, including:
- Acne
- balding
- deepening voice
- Larger clitoris
- Muscle mass increases
- Reduced breast size
Medical treatments and home remedies aid many in reducing the symptoms of hirsutism.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a well-known hormonal condition that affects women in reproductive years. It is believed that PCOS can affect between 6 to 12% of women across The United States.
The majority of people are not diagnosed until the 20s or 30s. But, children even as young as 11 are susceptible to being affected.
The symptoms of PCOS include :
- The ovaries are enlarged and they develop follicles and don’t release eggs frequently
- hair on the body that is not as long
- irregular, irregular or prolonged menstrual periods
PCOS could lead to a variety of health problems, such as
- depression
- Heart disease
- Infertility
- Miscarriage
- obesity
- Sleep apnea
- type 2 diabetes
Doctors aren’t sure the cause of PCOS however, the excess hormones as well as genetics could play in the development of.
Diagnosis of females with high testosterone
A doctor can determine the presence of high testosterone in females by examining the following:
Physical exam
In a physical exam, the doctor will be looking for signs such as
- acne
- excessive body hair
- facial hair growth
They’ll also ask questions about:
- libido
- menstrual cycle abnormalities
- mood swings
When PCOS could be a possibility, the physician can physically and visually examine the pelvic area to search for signs of abnormalities.
Blood test
If you notice signs of high testosterone levels, your doctor will collect the blood sample and then have testosterone levels checked. They may also check glucose and cholesterol levels.
Typically, blood tests will be taken at the time of morning as the levels of testosterone are at their highest.
Ultrasound
To check for PCOS, the doctor may perform an ultrasound to examine the ovaries as well as the uterus.
Treatment of females with high testosterone
The treatment suggested for high testosterone depends on the root causes.
In general, doctors suggest lifestyle changes as well as medications. Certain treatments can also be employed to manage unwanted hair.
Medication
The high testosterone level and the associated issues can be treated using the following drugs:
- Eflornithine It is a cream applied directly to the skin which reduces the growth of hair on the face.
- Glucocorticosteroids: This is a type of steroid hormone that reduces inflammation in the body.
- Metformin It is the treatment used to treat type 2 diabetes that is occasionally utilized to reduce blood sugar levels and insulin levels for those suffering from PCOS.
- Progestin It is an hormone which could regulate menstrual cycles and enhance fertility.
- Spironolactone The diuretic assists in balancing salt and water levels and decreases excessive hair growth in females.
Oral contraceptives can also be prescribed as it assists in blocking excess testosterone.
According to an review from the year of 2019 review, combining oral contraceptives that have estrogen and progestin, with antiandrogens and metformin could be the most effective in the treatment of hirsutism.
Keep in mind that oral contraceptives might not be suitable for those who are trying to become pregnant. They can cause unwanted side effects.
Hair removal treatments
Laser therapy as well as electrolysis can be utilized to reduce unwanted hair. But, these treatments do not address the root cause of an hormonal imbalance.
- Electrolysis It involves inserting tiny needles into every hair follicle. A short pulse of electrical current passes through the needle and destroys the hair follicle to the point that it can’t develop new hair. Many treatments are possible.
- Laser Therapy: At this time laser light is sprayed to hair follicles in order to harm them. In addition, several treatments could be needed.
Take note that these hair removal procedures may cause adverse reactions and also pose other risk.
Any person suffering from hormonal imbalance needs to consult an expert before attempting treatment options to treat the growth of hair that is excessive.
Lifestyle Changes in lifestyle
Certain lifestyle modifications can decrease the amount of testosterone females have Some are able to take care of symptoms.
Here are some ways to live your life that could be beneficial:
- Maintain and reach an average body weight Certain studies show that losing as little as 5-10% in body fat can boost fertility, aid in balancing menstrual cycles and decrease symptoms for women suffering from PCOS.
- A healthy diet that is balanced: A person can reduce theTrusted Source symptoms of PCOS through an nutrient-rich, well-rounded diet and limit their intake of foods with high levels of refined carbs, sugar and saturated fats. trans fat.
- Control excessive hair growth The person could opt to treat their body and facial hair growth by shaving, plucking, waxing or using chemical depilatories. Some people will bleach hair in order to make it appear less noticeable.
Resumen
Females with high testosterone levels can cause a range of signs including excess eyebrow hair, to infertility which is typically caused by a medical issue.
The treatment of the disorder that is causing it can often lessen symptoms and enhance a person’s living quality.
If you suspect they are experiencing symptoms of high testosterone should see a physician to identify the reason and determine the most effective method of treatment.
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