Increased testosterone in women symptoms. Increased testosterone levels in women, girls, pregnant women: signs, symptoms, causes. Treatment of high testosterone in women, girls, pregnant women with drugs, diet and folk remedies. Is it possible to lower

The content of the article:

Testosterone is the main male sex hormone, but it is also present in small amounts in the female body. In men, the testes are responsible for the synthesis of the hormone, and in women, the ovaries. In addition, testosterone is partially produced by the adrenal cortex, both in boys and girls. In the male body, testosterone determines the degree of development of sexual characteristics, and in girls it regulates sexual desire, as well as a set of fat and muscle mass.

Scientists in the course of research have found that the rate of testosterone concentration in the female body can significantly change with age upward. The maximum values ​​of the hormone level in the female body are noted during menopause. The concentration of the male hormone also increases during pregnancy, and the deviation from the norm during this period can reach up to 400 percent. To determine the level of the male hormone in girls, it is necessary to pass certain tests. Today we will find out what the consequences of increased testosterone levels in women can have.

Normal testosterone concentration in women

As we have already noted, testosterone must be present in the female body. It is necessary for the development of the skeleton, muscles, sebaceous and mammary glands. In addition, the male hubbub helps to improve the mood of girls. But all this is possible only with a normal concentration of testosterone. But elevated testosterone levels in women are undesirable. An increase in the concentration of the male hormone in the female body can be noticed by a sharp increase in the growth of hair on the body and face.

Also, for this, you can pass tests that will show the content of testosterone. In women after ten years, the concentration of the male hormone should be in the range of 0.45-3.75 nmol / liter. At the same time, a short-term excess of this indicator is allowed. For example, testosterone levels drop sharply after menstruation and rise during pregnancy.


If increased testosterone levels in women are observed long time, then this is fraught with undesirable consequences, since the work of the endocrine system will be disrupted. With an increase in the concentration of the male hormone in girls, it is possible that the menstrual cycle will stop and problems with bearing the fetus. Therefore, pregnant women are advised to be tested to determine their testosterone levels.

Symptoms of high testosterone levels in women


We have already said above that an increased level of testosterone in women can be determined by some external signs:
  1. The appearance on the body and face of coarse dark hair.
  2. The skin becomes dry and begins to peel off.
  3. Hair loss on the scalp and an increase in their fat content.
  4. Gradual transformation of the physique into a masculine.
  5. The voice grows coarse.
At the same time, one should remember about the more serious consequences that an increased testosterone level in women can lead to:
  1. A significant decrease in sexual and physical activity.
  2. Violation and even complete cessation of the monthly cycle.
  3. Increased irritability and aggression.
All this as a result can lead to the development of serious diseases, for example, ovarian tumors or Cushing's syndrome. If a woman notices at least one of the above symptoms, then it is necessary to consult a doctor for advice and examination as soon as possible.

Note that there can be many reasons for an increase in the concentration of the male hormone in women. For example, an increased level of testosterone in women is often observed in girls who decide to follow a vegetarian diet and do not eat animal foods. Also, among the reasons for the increase in testosterone concentration, some diseases, long courses of certain medications, genetic characteristics of the body, etc. can be noted.

Treatment of high testosterone levels in women


First of all, you should reconsider your diet, since it is not proper nutrition is one of the most common causes of high testosterone levels in women. If you preach vegetarianism, then you should refuse this. Be sure to include fried vegetables and meats in your diet.

In addition, you need to start eating dairy products with a normal fat content, natural honey, white bread, moderate amounts of sugar and salt, soy, and vegetable oils. If you use a dietary nutrition program, then you will also have to abandon it and find another way to deal with excess weight.

Note that in such situations, most experts advise yoga classes. Scientists suggest that yoga helps cleanse the body and restore the normal functioning of the endocrine system. But you must understand that your studies must become permanent. This will allow you to always be in good shape and eliminate disruptions in the work of the hormonal system. Yoga should be done at least twice a week. Also, you can additionally start attending a Pilates class, doing it once for seven days.

If the increased testosterone level in women was caused by more serious problems, then, most likely, the use of appropriate therapy cannot be dispensed with. In such a situation, you will have to take medications that must be prescribed by a specialist. Self-medication can only aggravate the situation. There are also folk remedies for lowering testosterone concentration in girls. Among them, we note the following herbs: licorice root in combination with Mary's root, evening primrose, sacred vitex, bugs, angelica, etc.

Also among the funds traditional medicine peppermint should be noted. Turkish scientists have conducted a number of studies that have proven that the use of only two cups of peppermint decoction per day can significantly reduce testosterone levels. Another effective plant is cimicifugu. It is a potent antiandrogen that can be very helpful in high testosterone levels in women.

Today there are many medications that can help you solve the problem of high testosterone levels. This can be, say, cyproterone, dexamethasone, digitalis, digostin, etc. also enough effective remedy to reduce the concentration of the male hormone in the female body, ordinary glucose can become. However, as we said above, it is not worthwhile to self-medicate. If you find symptoms of high testosterone levels, be sure to see your doctor.

You should combine folk remedies with traditional medicine, which will solve the problem much faster. In extreme cases, it can come to hormone therapy. However, it should be admitted that this happens quite rarely, but the likelihood of such a step should be remembered. Hormone therapy is used in exceptional cases when increased testosterone levels in women can cause serious harm to health.

Tests to determine the concentration of testosterone


If a woman assumes that there is a high concentration of testosterone in her body, then it is necessary to pass an analysis. It can be done in a laboratory where blood is drawn. The cost of such a service is low, and the results will be known within 24 hours.

However, there are several rules when taking an analysis to determine an increased testosterone level in women:

  • The analysis must be taken in the period from the 3rd to the 5th, as well as from the 8th to 10th days of the menstrual cycle.
  • The day before the test, you need to eliminate physical activity, stressful situations and not have sexual intercourse.
  • One or two hours before taking the test, you should have a good rest and no smoking.
By following these rules, you can expect to receive the most accurate analysis possible. If, as a result, an increased level of testosterone is found in women, then it is necessary to consult a doctor to start therapy.

Learn more about hyperandrogenism in women, diagnosis and treatment of this problem in this video:

Testosterone belongs to the group of androgens, constituting the bulk of all male sex hormones. In the female body, its content 70% less... The hormone is produced by the testes in men, and by the ovaries in women, only a small part of it is synthesized by the adrenal cortex. The concentration of testosterone directly depends on the age of the person, his life and clinical history.

An overestimated concentration of the hormone occurs in women much more often than in men and in clinical medicine is called hyperandrogenism... The symptoms of the disease are practically on the surface, always expressed clearly, without a latent course. Hormonal imbalance makes adjustments not only to the physical health of a woman, but also to her psycho-emotional state.

Causes

The increase in free testosterone occurs through a number of internal and external factors... Exogenous factors usually affect a woman's hormones through food and the environment. Age features, pregnancy and lactation are considered endogenous, chronic diseases organs or systems.

If the imbalance of hormones is temporary, then this is unlikely to affect the general state of health, however, if the increased testosterone is of a systemic nature, then complications will not be long in coming. The main causes of increased testosterone in women are:

    kidney pathology (functional disorders of the adrenal cortex);

    long-term drug treatment, inadequate drug therapy;

    oncological processes in the body;

    ovarian damage of any genesis;

    fibroids or polyposis of the uterus;

    hyper- or hypothyroidism and disruption of the endocrine system;

    heredity;

    Cushing's syndrome, Conn (with excessive concentration of glucocorticoids);

    alcoholism, drug addiction.

A history of diabetes mellitus, rare genetic diseases are also indirect causes of hyperandrogenism. If the violation of the volume of the hormone is stable for more than a year, then the first symptomatic manifestations appear.

Symptoms

Usually a woman feels internal breakdowns in her own body, especially when it comes to negative changes in appearance and psycho-emotional state. When the first symptoms appear, it is important to see a doctor for a full examination of the hormonal background and health conditions in general. The first doctor is a gynecologist, after which you may need to consult an endocrinologist and other specialists in the recommended profile.

The main symptoms are:

    dysfunction of the ovaries;

    amenorrhea, menstrual irregularities;

    In the second case, when a girl becomes a woman physically and mentally, testosterone is also increased. In girls with high testosterone, aggressive behavior is increased, there is a tendency to suicide, oily skin with traces of acne, acne, secondary sexual characteristics quickly appear.

    Puberty is a difficult period in the life of any teenager. Parents should pay special attention to any changes in the child's behavior and mental state. With prolonged preservation of unpleasant symptoms, hormonal therapy is acceptable to normalize the ratio of androgens and estrogens.

    The main methods of lowering testosterone in women

    Normally, the level of testosterone in the blood of a teenage girl reaches 3.09 pg / ml, in adult woman- 3.09 pg / ml, and from 40 years of age the testosterone level decreases significantly and after 60 years it barely reaches 1.8 pg / ml. After an accurate diagnosis of hyperandrogenism, treatment tactics will depend entirely on the cause the occurrence of pathology.

    Increased insulin

    With a decrease in testosterone against a background of high insulin, the following measures are recommended:

    • intense physical activity in the absence of contraindications (to increase tissue sensitivity to insulin and strengthen muscle structures);

      replacement therapy with T3 hormone to improve the functioning of the thyroid gland;

      drug therapy to increase tissue sensitivity to insulin (alpha-amylase inhibitors, Metaformin, SGLT-2 inhibitors);

      a systematic course of dietary supplements (Berberine, magnesium, chromium, alpha-lipoic acid).

    Substitution therapy can be lifelong, so women should be patient and understanding about the entire treatment process.

    Change in the ratio of estrogen to progesterone

    Before starting therapy to reduce the concentration of testosterone, it is recommended:

      treatment of hypothyroidism if necessary (T4 test);

      treatment of the liver in the presence of pathologies;

      taking bioidentical hormones;

      regular intake of dietary supplements (bio-identical progesterone, methylsulfonylmethane).

    Before starting treatment, you should exclude any disturbances in the work of the endocrine system, hepatic structures. Self-diagnosis is impossible without professional diagnostics.

    Diseases of the adrenal glands

    If a woman's clinical history previously had kidney problems, then it is important to see a nephrologist to examine the adrenal glands, which also produce testosterone. The following measures should be taken:

      an increase in the amount of salt consumed (preferably sea salt);

      normalization of the emotional background (frequent walks, fresh air, sports, positive methods in psychology);

      elimination of alcohol, caffeine and tobacco;

      stop taking amphetamines;

      normalization of sleep, rest and wakefulness (sleep should be at least 8 hours);

      taking dietary supplements;

      systemic treatment of kidney disease (adequate replacement therapy).

    Increasing the volume of salt will restore electrolyte balance, especially with regard to sodium concentration. It is recommended to drink the medicinal table daily mineral water after releasing gas bubbles from it.

    High concentration of leptin

    When diagnosing this condition, you will need to resort to the following measures:

      therapeutic fasting;

      reduction of carbohydrates and fructose in the diet;

      compensation for thyroid diseases;

      intense physical activity;

      drugs that increase sensitivity to leptin;

      Dietary supplements (Omega-3 fish fat, leucine, other additives).

    The main drugs for the treatment of hyperandrogenism are Cyproterone, Digostin, Digitalis, Dexamethasone. It is important to understand that the start of treatment should be based on the obtained laboratory data. For the final manifestation of hyperandrogenism, symptoms alone are not enough.

    Consequences of high testosterone

    With prolonged hormonal disorders and persistent manifestation of hyperandrogenism in women, multiple problems appear, mainly associated with changes in figure, appearance, voice. It is not uncommon for women to find high testosterone levels when they see a doctor for infertility or menstrual irregularities. Over time, a woman's figure resembles that of a man's, including her gait and manner of communication. The consequences of hormonal imbalance can be:

      oncological diseases of the genitals and mammary glands;

      neoplasms in the uterine cavity (fibroids, polyps);

      diseases of the reproductive system (endometriosis, polycystic ovary) g

      pathological changes in the work of the heart, blood vessels;

      diabetes mellitus and other endocrine disorders.

    Against the background of serious hormonal disorders, a woman is not able to cope with her emotional anxiety, a general emotional state, hence the appearance of aggression, irascibility, persistent behavior. Sometimes the changes even call into question the further adequate life. Depression, disturbance in sexual life, sweating and hair growth - all this can serve as a signal for a violation of the secretion of testosterone in the female body.

    Nature created man as a single well-coordinated mechanism. Hormonal Disorders - A Very Subtle Area human body, but it is hormones that form the foundation of human health. For any violations, competent correction is important, which will allow not only to improve health, but also to maintain physical fitness and health.

Content

Such a typically male hormone as testosterone is also present in a woman's body. It is produced by the ovaries and adrenal glands. Testosterone in women is responsible for important bodily functions such as creating and maintaining muscle mass, regulation of the function of the sebaceous glands, the functioning of the nervous system. This hormone regulates the process of follicle maturation, is responsible for the growth of mammary glands, and affects a woman's sexuality.

What is the rate of testosterone hormone in women?

Unlike the body of a man, the hormonal background in women is subject to constant changes, expressed in fluctuations. If these deviations from the norm are within the acceptable range, women's health nothing threatens. The level of testosterone in the blood is influenced by age, pregnancy: during gestation, the testosterone content rises two to three times. In medicine, two indicators of the level of the hormone are used:

  • Free testosterone. This term denotes the amount of free, non-protein-bound substance. The normal content of free testosterone is 0.25 - 1.25 ng / ml.
  • Total testosterone. This term refers to the total amount of a hormone in the body. To find out the level of the hormone content, it is necessary to take tests and tests in the laboratories of medical institutions. If in doubt about the results, we advise you to check the level of the hormone in another laboratory.

Detailed data on the content of the hormone are shown in the table:

During pregnancy

During pregnancy, testosterone levels rise several times, and this increase is considered normal. The amount of the hormone increases due to the fact that the placenta is connected to the production of testosterone in the body of a pregnant woman. An excess of the hormone is also due to the fact that the fetus begins to produce it: its content is especially high if a woman is pregnant with a boy.

By the third semester, testosterone in women is at its maximum high level... It is considered normal if its content in the body rises three to four times or more. Experts find it difficult to voice the exact indicators. In some women, an increase in hormone levels can be caused not only by pregnancy, but also by ovulation.

Causes of violation of testosterone levels

The doctor will reliably establish the cause of hormonal disorders, who will rely on information obtained in the course of medical research. There are several reasons for violations that are of a different nature. If you suspect a hormone deficiency or excess, we recommend that you do not hesitate and apply for medical help... The following reasons for an increase in testosterone levels are known:

  • Diseases, disorders of the ovaries and uterus: polycystic, endometriosis, fibroids, tumor diseases.
  • Hereditary factor - hormonal disorders are inherited.
  • Disorders associated with improper work of the adrenal glands.
  • Pituitary gland pathology.

The main factor affecting the increase in testosterone levels is the improper functioning of the adrenal cortex. Also, a common cause of hormonal disruption is considered various diseases genitals. Among the reasons that cause low levels of the hormone in women, experts call the following factors:

  • Alcoholism.
  • Improper nutrition - lack of sufficient amount of carbohydrates in the diet.
  • Fasting, a diet based on limited intake of fat.

Symptoms of high testosterone levels

The fact that pathological hormonal changes are taking place in the body, a woman will guess by external signs. These signs are evidence of serious ailments, therefore, if any of the symptoms mentioned below occur, it is better to consult a specialist. The sooner you find out and eliminate the cause of the hormonal failure, the faster your recovery will come. There are symptoms of increased testosterone levels in the body:

  • Accelerated hair growth - and more upper lip, but also on other parts of the face, on the chest. The existing hairs on the legs and arms become thicker, and many new hairs appear. The hair on the head quickly turns oily.
  • Dry, flaky and cracked skin, acne breakouts.
  • The voice coarsens, becomes like a man's.
  • The body becomes similar to the body of a man, there is a set of muscle mass, weight increases.
  • There is a desire to increase physical and sexual activity.
  • There are signs of aggression, and for no apparent reason.

How to downgrade?

The best results are shown by a combination of several measures to lower the hormone. Experts advise to carefully study your diet, and, if necessary, revise it. The diet will have to be temporarily abandoned, all substances necessary for life should be included in the diet: proteins, fats, carbohydrates. In addition to vegetables, you should consume food such as meat, fish, seafood, which include vitamins, trace elements, phosphorus, iron, calcium, potassium.

To normalize the level of hormones, doctors advise to go in for sports - fitness, yoga. This is especially useful if you have to give up the diet: movement will allow you to burn extra calories without harming the body. Regular yoga and fitness sessions will restore hormonal balance without the use of medications.

If it is impossible to lower the production of the hormone by the methods described above, doctors will prescribe treatment folk remedies... In some cases, you have to resort to hormone therapy. It is proved that such healing herbs like vitex, black cohosh, licorice root, evening primrose and others are able to normalize hormonal balance in a woman's body.

Signs of low testosterone levels

If testosterone is contained in small amounts in women, they experience muscle and psychological fatigue, and these phenomena begin to be chronic. The intimate sphere is especially affected: due to hormonal disruption, a woman stops producing vaginal secretions: sex begins to bring unpleasant sensations. In addition, there are such signs of low testosterone levels:

  • Decrease in the amount of hair throughout the body.
  • Decreased muscle mass, constant feeling of weakness.
  • Increased fatty layer under the skin.
  • Dry skin.
  • Lack of sex drive.
  • Bad mood, turning into depression.

How to raise if there is a shortage?

If you suspect a lack of testosterone, you should not start taking hormonal drugs on your own, this is dangerous to your health. If necessary, your doctor will prescribe medications such as propionate or any other containing sufficient bioavailable testosterone. But before that, the doctor will definitely prescribe the necessary studies, according to the results of which therapy is prescribed. To normalize hormonal balance, we also recommend taking the following measures:

  • Eat foods high in zinc such as seafood, nuts, and dietary chicken.
  • Eat foods containing the fats and amino acids the body needs - seafood, vegetable oil, nuts, seeds, olives.
  • Try to get rid of excess fat.
  • Reduce the amount of estrogen and xenoestrogens in the body. To do this, try to consume products of natural origin, without pesticides and hormones.

Is treatment possible without hormones?

Treatment for a lack or excess of testosterone depends on the cause of the disease. So, there are often cases when hormonal imbalance is caused by improper diet, strict diets, alcoholism. If you start eating right, include in the diet useful material and eliminate harmful ones, there is some chance of increasing or decreasing the testosterone content in the body. In many cases, taking pills and other natural medications will help correct hormonal imbalances. But in some cases, hormones cannot be avoided.

Each of us, from time to time, experiences emotional outbursts, lethargy or, on the contrary, aggression, poor sleep or insomnia. When we complain about this, men roll their eyes and diagnose us with PMS. Although they mean exclusively our female excessive emotionally, in the end they turn out to be right, all these symptoms are a consequence of hormonal outbursts.

You and I sometimes make fun of the opposite sex when we notice in one of them features inherent exclusively to women: a high voice or soft skin, mane is thicker and more attractive than ours or his barely restrained tears in the final scene of "Titanic". But we never think that in us, women, there is no less masculine. Let me tell you a secret, even the most beautiful and sophisticated representatives of the weaker sex hide a drop of masculinity in themselves. Curious? Then let's be confidential.

First, let's get acquainted with the facts.

The hormone of masculinity

Testosterone is a male sex hormone, androgen. It is produced by the adrenal glands and testes. More precisely, in the testes in men, as well as in small quantities in the ovaries in women and in the adrenal cortex in both men and women. It is a product of peripheral metabolism and is responsible for virilization in boys and androgenization in girls. (Wiki)

It was discovered by the German scientist Adolf Butenandt in 1931. In 1935, he also created synthetic testosterone, which was later used to increase the testosterone content in both sexes, to make them stronger, faster and increase the reaction rate.

Simply put, the hormone testosterone is present in both men and women, but in different proportions. The more it is, the brighter the sex differences and signs appear:

  • Plumps bone structure.
  • Influences the formation and development of the genitals.
  • Promotes increased hair growth.
  • Changes the structure of the larynx, which makes the voice coarser and lower.
  • Increases muscle growth.
  • Influences nitrogen and phosphorus metabolism.
  • Affects the distribution of fat mass.

And also on behavioral:

  • Aggressiveness.
  • Impulsive behavior.
  • Libido level.
  • Dominance.
  • Increases intelligence.
  • Reduces empathy.
  • Reflects on emotional stability.

At different periods of life, testosterone consistently launches human development programs: from the formation of the sex of the child, ending with the maintenance of reproductive function during maturity.

The female body cannot do without testosterone! But for the correct operation of our system, we need it 7 times less than men. He is responsible for such processes as:

  • (Oddly enough) Sex appeal.
  • Sex drive.
  • Breast formation.
  • Maintaining pregnancy.
  • General muscle tone.
  • Emotional resilience.

Increased testosterone levels in women

Nature created man as an ideal mechanism, but the conditions of our life lead to disruption of the system. When hormone levels change, there are always consequences. If it is low, apathy, lethargy appear, the muscles become flabby and libido suffers. As a result of this, our life also begins to change. Relationships with loved ones and people close to us change, the regime and speed of life change, career ceases to fascinate, and the only acceptable hobby seems to be fumbling a sluggish body on the sofa. What happens if testosterone goes off scale?

  • Failure or complete cessation of the menstrual cycle.
  • Disruption of the ovaries.
  • Infertility.
  • Problems with bearing a child.
  • Difficult childbirth.
  • Increases the risk of development diabetes mellitus.
  • Depression.
  • Hypertrophy of the clitoris.
  • Deterioration of the skin condition. Acne.
  • Male pattern baldness.
  • Sleep disturbance.
  • Increased sweating.

And to all of the above, the appearance changes! The voice becomes lower and rougher, hair appears on the face, chest, back. The body loses its femininity and a strong body of a weightlifter replaces the delicate appearance. The thighs lose their roundness, and the subcutaneous fat flows into the abdomen. Also, an excess of testosterone affects a woman's behavior, worldview, reaction to events. Aggressiveness, a desire to dominate, to compete and a desire to take risks, appear unnoticed earlier. As a consequence, priorities change. I want to build a career, not a family, to make dangerous decisions without paying attention to the risks.

Natural Causes of Increased Testosterone Levels in Women

The reasons for the changes can be both external: environment and food; and natural (internal). For example, the restructuring of the body according to the age principle, pregnancy or serious violation work of the body. Do not be alarmed if this is a temporary phenomenon, but if the symptoms manifest themselves too strongly and begin to haunt you, then you should listen to yourself and consult a doctor. What can cause a disruption in testosterone production?

  • Improper work of the adrenal glands.
  • Poisoning with drugs.
  • Ovarian tumor.
  • Disruption of the pituitary gland.
  • Megoma of the uterus.
  • Dysfunction of the thyroid gland.
  • Genetic predisposition.
  • Cushing's and Conn's Syndromes.

I can see how your shaking hands are already reaching for the medical reference. Do not rush. This scoundrel will say again that your symptoms match 99% of its contents! Be smart, don't self-medicate! At home, it is still impossible to determine the level of testosterone. In any case, you will have to consult an endocrinologist or gynecologist-endocrinologist if you have any suspicions. This will not go away by itself, but the consequences of your fear or laziness can develop into hyperandrogenism, and then all the most unpleasant consequences that I described above to you can come. So do not be afraid and first of all get tested, consult a doctor, and only then you yourself will decide which treatment is right for you, if it is required at all.

Solutions

Any problem has at least two solutions. We can follow the traditional path and medically regulate hormonal imbalance, or we can turn to alternative / traditional medicine. Naturally, if we are talking about a significant and systematic malfunction of the endocrine system, then serious medications, but if there is no such problem, then you can try easy ways to control and normalize hormones. Let's start with nutrition!

Include in your meals: Coffee (no more than 1 cup per day), white bread, honey, vegetable oil, a little soy, salt and cream (but no more than 3 grams per day), sugar, natural juices, glucose, vegetables and fruits.

Some well-wishers will advise you to include fried and fatty meat in your diet, but think for yourself, if we are fighting for our femininity, do we still need problems with being overweight, not to mention a ruined stomach?

Brew herbs: angelica, licorice root, marin root, cimifuga, evening primrose, sacred vitex, creeping gray (dwarf palm).

With the latter, women should not overdo it with big breasted... It affects the growth of underdeveloped breasts.

Speaking of control, let's remember yoga! This perfect way physical activity, which will help normalize hormones and calm the nerves.

Content

For many, testosterone is a symbol of male sexuality and physical strength. This hormone really regulates intimate behavior, participates in the development of male genital organs, and affects the development of bone and muscle tissue. The female body also has androgen, it is produced by the ovaries and the adrenal cortex. The role of the hormone is essential for women, but if it is more than normal, this is reflected in appearance and health.

The role of testosterone in the female body

The hormone norm in women aged 10-45 years is 0.45-3.75 nmol / l, the range for men is 5.76-28.14 nmol / l. The level depends on the phase of the cycle, time of day and age. The hormone testosterone in women performs the following tasks:

  1. Responsible for the formation of muscle mass - with normal level androgen well-developed musculature.
  2. Controls the amount of adipose tissue and blood sugar concentration- with an increase in the male sex hormone, the tendency to be overweight increases.
  3. Participates in the construction of bone tissue - is responsible for the strength of the supporting apparatus.
  4. Regulates the state of health - helps to feel vigorous, energetic, enduring.
  5. Affects the mental state - reduces the level of depression, causes a feeling of satisfaction.
  6. Regulates libido - is responsible for a woman's sexual desire;
  7. Controls the work of the reproductive system.
  8. Affects brain activity - is responsible for concentration, memory.

Signs of high testosterone in women

Androgen, produced in large quantities, affects the emotional and physical state of the fair sex. An excess of testosterone in women is manifested in the following symptoms:

  • acne, skin inflammation;
  • dryness of the epidermis;
  • hair growth on the face and body;
  • increased hair oiliness;
  • the formation of a male figure during adolescence;
  • excessive muscle development;
  • hypotrophy of the breast;
  • sweating with a specific odor;
  • lowering the timbre of the voice;
  • a strong increase in the clitoris;
  • fatty deposits on the abdomen;
  • hair loss, male pattern baldness.

Increased testosterone affects reproductive system: Suppresses ovulation, promotes the formation of ovarian cysts, disrupts the menstrual cycle and hormonal balance. Women also experience nightmares, insomnia, irritability, and chronic stress. Ladies feel strong sexual attraction. Symptoms of high testosterone in women and adolescent girls: excessive hair on the arms and legs, lack of menstruation or scanty periods, problems with conception.

Reasons for increasing testosterone in women

Hormone imbalance can be caused by various diseases and passive lifestyles. The main reasons for the increase in androgen:

  1. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It is not entirely clear to medical science whether PCOS enhances testosterone production or the androgen hormone leads to the development of this disease. The two phenomena are closely related to each other.
  2. Insulin resistance. As insulin rises, testosterone rises, progesterone falls, and estrogen rises. Women at risk need to periodically donate blood for glycated hemoglobin, fasting insulin, free and total testosterone.
  3. Diseases of the thyroid gland, decreased SHBG. In hypothyroidism, the amount of globulin that binds sex hormones (SHBG) decreases. Because of this, more androgen remains active, which leads to various disorders in the body.
  4. Increased estradiol and decreased progesterone. There is a relationship between these hormones and testosterone. An imbalance in female sex hormones leads to an increase or decrease in androgens, which happens with PMS (premenstrual syndrome), PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder), during menopause.
  5. Fasting after exercise. After intense strength exercise, the level of several hormones rises, including testosterone. If a woman is hungry, the androgen falls much more slowly.
  6. Passive lifestyle. Physical activity affects glucose levels and helps to increase the sensitivity of cells to insulin. Exercise reduces body fat, which also affects hormonal balance.
  7. Adrenal diseases: hyperplasia, fatigue syndrome (with increased stress), insulin resistance. With these pathologies, the production of testosterone precursors increases: progesterone, androstenedione, pregnenolone, DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone). As a result of the transformation of substances, the male sex hormone is formed.
  8. High leptin levels. A hormone released from fat cells controls appetite and signals the brain to burn fat. If there is a lot of leptin, the woman feels hunger all the time, and the body does not properly utilize lipids. This leads to increased testosterone, increased insulin, obesity. It is known that fat cells themselves increase the amount of androgens.

Increased testosterone in pregnant women

In women who are carrying a child, androgen levels are 4 times higher than in a non-pregnant state. The average value ranges from 3.5-4.8 nmol / l, and this is absolutely normal, because the placenta is also involved in the synthesis of the hormone. The maximum concentration of testosterone is observed at 4-8 and 13-20 weeks of pregnancy. Androgen levels depend on the age and gender of the baby. In women expecting boys, the amount of the male sex hormone is higher.

In the body of a pregnant woman, protective mechanisms are launched that protect the fetus from the action of androgen. This is the placental transformation of testosterone into estrogens, binding of the hormone, suppression of its activation in target tissues. With a strong increase in androgen, its level in the umbilical cord blood will be no more than 2% of the plasma index of a woman. If true hyperandrogenism develops, which is very rare, the threat of spontaneous abortion and pregnancy fading increases. The causes of pathology are the following diseases:

  • hypercortisolism syndrome (increased production of glucocorticosteroids caused by an adrenal tumor);
  • Itsenko-Cushing's disease (neuroendocrine disease);
  • PCOS;
  • genetic predisposition;
  • taking certain medications;
  • trophoblastic disease;
  • improper nutrition.

Treatment of high testosterone in women

Correction of hormonal levels begins with testing and identifying the root cause of the disease. With a stable menstrual cycle of 28 days, the testosterone test must be taken 2-5 days from its beginning. If the cycle is lengthened, the analysis is postponed to 5-7 days. Further, the endocrinologist examines the patient for concomitant diseases and draws up treatment regimens. In parallel, non-drug therapy is carried out (in the absence of contraindications). Effective methods androgen reduction:

  • Diet change - the selection of foods that lower blood glucose and insulin levels, increase the amount of female sex hormones.
  • Acupuncture - stimulates the secretion of estrogen, improves overall energy metabolism.
  • Sports - cardio is useful: running, dancing, Pilates, callanetics. It is better to exclude strength exercises so as not to hypertrophy the muscles.
  • Regular intimate relationship- promote the secretion of female sex hormones.
  • Full rest - sleep for at least 8 hours, walks in the fresh air, emotional relief.
  • Taking tinctures and decoctions of medicinal plants - they change the hormonal background.

Drug therapy

Increased testosterone levels in women may require the appointment of glucocorticosteroids: hydrocortisone, dexamethasone, prednisolone, parametazone, metipred (methylprednisolone). Preparations based on these hormones are taken for adrenal dysfunction, like Spironolactone, an aldosterone antagonist. In other cases (PCOS, PMS, hirsutism, acne, seborrhea), the doctor prescribes androgens: Androkur, Flutakan. Each drug has its own list of contraindications, but all of them are not accepted during pregnancy, with severe diseases of internal organs.

In case of problems with the reproductive system, the patient takes hormonal contraceptives. Antiandrogenic contraceptives include a combination of female sex hormones: ethinyl estradiol and progestogen. The latter is represented by 19-nortestosterone. The synthetic hormone affects the functioning of the organs and glands that produce testosterone, and its secretion is reduced. Hyperandrogenic states are well corrected by such drugs: Diane-35, Logest, Yarina, Jess and Jess plus, Tri-Mercy, Marvelon, Janine, Belara.

Hormonal medicines should be prescribed after a thorough examination of the body, testing. This group of drugs has many side effects:

  • deterioration of vision;
  • skin rashes in the form of urticaria, acne, hyperpigmentation;
  • headache;
  • nausea, vomiting;
  • thromboembolism;
  • deterioration of the immune system;
  • changes in blood pressure;
  • increase in body weight;
  • soreness in the mammary glands, mastodynia;
  • amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), spotting;
  • candidiasis;
  • depression.

Increased testosterone in women is reduced by taking drugs that affect blood glucose levels: Siofor, Veroshpiron, Glucophage. With an imbalance in the hormonal background, one cannot self-medicate, because it is very easy to disrupt the work of the endocrine system. It is forbidden to abruptly quit taking hormonal drugs. When synthetic analogs enter the body, the production of its own hormones decreases. With an abrupt completion of the gland intake, the organs do not have time to join the work, and a major failure occurs in the work of the internal systems.

Diet

A balanced diet that does not provoke sharp jumps glucose and does not lead to obesity, has a positive effect on hormones. With increased testosterone in women, it is necessary to adhere to the following diet:

  • Don't eat animal fats. The substitute for the product is polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are found in flaxseed, fatty fish.
  • Drink a cup of natural coffee in the morning.
  • In the diet, about 50% of the food should be represented by vegetables and fruits.
  • Eat medium-fat dairy products: feta cheese, sour cream, cream, cottage cheese.
  • Meals should be at regular intervals. Avoid long breaks and the development of a feeling of hunger, in this condition, the secretion of androgens increases.
  • Eat complex carbohydrates: cereals, durum wheat pasta, cereals.

The concentration of androgen is reduced by products with estrogenic activity. Next to them, in the table, there is food that increases the level of the male sex hormone - it is better to refuse it:

Folk remedies

Increased testosterone levels in women can be reduced by taking infusions and decoctions from medicinal plants, their fruits:

  1. Dwarf palm reduces androgen secretion. Take 1 tsp. dried fruits, pour them 250 ml of boiling water, let it brew in a sealed container for 30 minutes. Take 100 ml twice a day.
  2. Pour 20 g of dry crushed licorice rhizomes with 500 ml of boiling water. The tool must be insisted in a thermos for 2-3 hours. Strain the infusion, use 100 ml twice a day.
  3. Mint tea is also effective. Take 2 tsp. dry mint leaves, pour 300 ml of boiling water. Let it brew for 20 minutes, strain, drink tea in two doses.

Consequences of high testosterone in women

If the level of androgen is not too high, the fair sex will feel changes in mood, bouts of increased physical activity. Hair can grow over the lip, arms and legs. With serious deviations, there is hypotrophy of the mammary glands, expansion of the shoulder girdle, and gait changes. The increased concentration of testosterone affects the reproductive system of women - it can cause ovarian disease and lead to infertility. Hormonal disturbances lead to the development of diabetes mellitus, pathologies of the heart and blood vessels.

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