Testosterone is a sex hormone that both men and women have in their bodies, but it is usually associated with males because they tend to have more of it. Some of the things that testosterone regulates in the male body include sex drive and muscle mass. In men, testosterone is produced in the testes, but in women, it is produced in the ovaries.
For this reason, women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may experience an increase in testosterone production as cysts affect the health of the ovaries. Testosterone and PCOS may cause a woman to experience thinning hair and oily skin, both of which are symptoms of higher-than-normal testosterone. Women who have high levels of testosterone and PCOS symptoms may also experience changes in weight and find it harder to lose weight.
Signs of Low Testosterone
Testosterone production begins in the womb, and it is one of the ways a fetus develops into a male or a female. Women usually have higher levels of estrogen, making it the characteristic female sex hormone that helps to determine which sex a baby will be upon birth.
If a man has low levels of testosterone, either naturally or due to aging, he may experience a lowered sex drive, decreased muscle mass and an increase in body fat. Psychological symptoms of depression may also be present along with fatigue and brain fog.
Hormone replacement therapy may help some men who experience low testosterone, but this is recommended on a case-by-case basis. If you’re concerned about your level of testosterone, a test at your doctor’s office can provide more details.
Should Women Be Concerned About Testosterone Levels?
If a woman is concerned about having high or low levels of testosterone, she can speak with her doctor to discuss options. Unless you’re dealing with a medical condition like PCOS, testosterone should not interfere with your daily life as a woman. Your doctor can provide more information regarding your specific health.
Disclaimer: The above is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.
Author Resource:-
Alester Brown is a certified PCOS specialist. She advises people on personalized women’s healthcare and skin treatment at home. You can find her thoughts at online PCOS clinic blog.
