Testosterone is a sex hormone produced by the testes in male and by the adrenal glands and ovaries in women. The researchers at the Jean Hailes Foundation for Women’s Health report that for most women, testosterone levels steadily decrease with age. However some women naturally experience higher levels of testosterone in the body, a condition known as hyperandrogenism.
Acne
Acne blemishes are commonly experienced by both male and female teens. If a woman experiences acne into her twenties, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists recommend testing hormone levels to see if there is an excess of testosterone.
Hirsutism
Hirsutism is the excessive growth of unwanted hair in women. Women with high levels of testosterone suffer with hair growth on the face, neck, chest and back. They also experience thicker hair on the arms and legs.
Hair Loss
Androgenic alopecia is similar to male-patterned baldness. The AACE states that women with hyperandrogenism experience hair line recession and baldness at the crown.
Virilization
Virilization is the masculinization of female anatomy and function. The AACE states that women with high levels of testosterone may experience deepening of the voice, an enlarged clitoris, severe hirsutism or male-patterned baldness.
Ovulatory Dysfunction
According to the AACE, high levels of testosterone inhibit a woman’s ability to ovulate regularly. A woman may cease to ovulate entirely resulting in menstrual irregularity or cessation and a possible loss of fertility.
Psychological Symptoms
The physical symptoms experienced by women with hyperandrogenism take an emotional toll according to the AACE. Acne, baldness and unwanted hair affect body image, and a loss of fertility is damaging emotionally.
