High testosterone levels in women, also known as hyperandrogenism, can be caused by several disorders, including adrenal disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome and Cushing syndrome. Polycystic ovary syndrome, according to the Mayo Clinic, is the most common reproductive problem in women of childbearing age. PCOS also accounts for a large number of cases of hyperandrogenism that occur. In this disorder, the ovaries produce excess levels of androgens, including testosterone. High levels of testosterone in women can cause significant side effects.
Hirsutism
Hirsutism is a condition in which a woman develops excess coarse hair growth in a way a man would typically. According to the Mayo Clinic, this condition is caused by excess androgens, generally testosterone. Treatment for hirsutism includes hair removal such as electrolysis and laser hair removal. In addition, prescription medications such as oral contraceptives may help relieve this side effect.
Acne
According to Turner-White.com, acne is a commonly experienced side effect of hyperandrogenism. This is caused when high levels of testosterone increase the production of sebum, a viscous substance that can clog the pores. Bacteria on the face also lead to inflammation and the formation of acne on the face, back and chest. Medications, frequent washing of the affected areas and application of over-the-counter acne cream might help relieve this side effect.
Hair Loss
Male pattern hair loss or androgenetic alopecia is a common side effect of high testosterone levels in women. According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, about 15 percent of women experiencing male pattern hair loss have excess levels of androgens, including testosterone. Generally, the hair loss begins at the vertex of the scalp and continues to the temples, much like the pattern seen in males. Diffuse loss might also occur in general all over the scalp.
Virilization
Virilization is an indication of significantly high levels of testosterone in women. Symptoms of virilization include enlargement of the clitoris, lowering of the voice, breast atrophy and other side effects of high testosterone such as hirsutism. This condition is often associated with tumors of the adrenal glands or ovaries. Virilization also includes increased libido and male pattern muscle mass gain and if left untreated, can lead to increased risks of heart disease and hypertension.
Menstrual Problems
Women with high levels of testosterone might experience disturbances in their menstrual cycle. This usually occurs in the form of amenorrhea or complete cessation of menstruation. Oligomenorrhea, which is infrequent or light menstrual cycles also may occur as a side effect of high testosterone levels in women. These menstrual disturbances can also lead over time to infertility.
References
- American Medical Network: Diagnosis of Hyperandrogenism in Female Adolescents
- Mayo Clinic: Hirsutism--Treatments and Drugs
- University of Maryland: Virilization
- Penn State: Milton S. Hershey Medical Center College of Medicine
- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
