Testosterone is a steroidal hormone found in men and women. Men naturally have higher levels of this hormone, which is responsible for aiding in typical male characteristics such as muscle mass and body hair. It also helps promote sexual desire in women, primarily during ovulation. Though the hormone is found in both men and women, it's generally much higher in men. The amount of testosterone a male produces is usually 10 times more than a woman's, which helps differentiate male and female characteristics. However, some women have higher testosterone levels than what's considered normal for most women.
Facial Hair in Women
Testosterone is responsible for facial hair growth in males; however, excessive testosterone levels in females may produce facial hair in some. Hair growth appears on the face and around the chin and upper lip, much like that of men. According to Wellspan Health, facial hair in women doesn't reach the same density as males experience. Excessive facial hair is a revealing sign of a hormonal imbalance and higher levels of testosterone. It can be a psychological disturbing experience for women who experience this symptom of hormonal imbalance. However, excessive facial hair can be reversed with medication.
Irregular Menstrual Periods
Irregular periods are also a symptom of excess testosterone. The menstrual period may be heavier than usual, nonexistent or come every few months. Excessive testosterone levels may result in irregular periods because the body's hormonal levels are out of balance. GirlsHealth.gov says the body turns excess insulin into testosterone, which may provoke irregular periods in some girls or women. Menstruation occurs after an egg has entered into the ovaries and was not fertilized. Higher testosterone eliminates the process of ovulation, resulting in irregular menstrual cycles. Some women who experience this symptom may not associate it with an excess of testosterone but a sign of age instead.
Acne
The appearance of new acne in adult women is usually an indicator that there is excess testosterone in the body. Acne derives from clogged pores that result in reddened bumps on the surface of the skin. Higher levels of testosterone may be responsible for an increase in acne breakouts. According to a study performed by Matthew Molitch of the Endocrine Society, patients experienced acne after being injected with the hormone testosterone. In some patients, acne was mild; others experienced more acne bumps on the skin.
