Hidden health problems, such as a hormonal imbalance involving testosterone, can make you feel like you're going out of your mind. You might have obvious symptoms or just feel "off." This can be particularly troubling if you're a young woman with no other apparent hormonal issues. If you suspect you're suffering from an increase in testosterone, speak to your doctor or a licensed medical practitioner.
Significance
Testosterone is a hormone, which is a chemical produced by the body that relays messages to other parts of the body. This hormone is most commonly associated with males, though this is somewhat of a misconception -- both men and women produce the hormone. Men typically have higher levels of testosterone than women. In females, testosterone is produced primarily by her ovaries and adrenal glands.
Identification
Testosterone plays a part in healthy bone density and structure. Testosterone also aids in ovarian function. Testosterone levels must be balanced with estrogen, another hormone, in order for a woman to ovulate. According to the National Institutes of Health, regular testosterone levels for a woman range from 30 nanograms (ng) per deciliter (dL) to 50 ng per dL. Anything above these levels is considered an elevated testosterone level. It is entirely possible for a woman to have a clinically normal testosterone range and still have an increase of the hormone within her body due to individual variations.
Function
Though there is no solid evidence, it is generally assumed that testosterone also plays a part in a woman's libido. A 2010 study performed at the University of Zurich found that testosterone drove women to be more social and more fair in their dealings with other people.
Considerations
There are a number of reasons why a young woman's testosterone level may rise, causing a hormonal imbalance. An increase in testosterone production is potentially indicative of ovarian cancer, polycystic ovarian disease, congenital adrenal hyperplasia and androgen resistance. Testosterone rises at puberty, and a young girl with a surge of testosterone may be experiencing precocious puberty.
Signs
Signs of excess testosterone production in women include an increase in acne, irregular or absent menstrual periods, alopecia, hirsutism or excess hair growing in areas it normally would not, such as the face and the development of male body characteristics.
Warning
Because hormonal imbalances are impossible to confirm without the use of a blood test and because of their many varied causes, it is important to speak to a doctor if you exhibit signs of a hormonal imbalance. Your doctor is in the best position to diagnose and determine the cause of an increased testosterone level, as well as devise a treatment plan that meets your individual needs.
References
- National Institutes of Health: Medline Plus: Testosterone
- PeaceHealth: Testosterone for Women
- MayoClinic.com: Testosterone Therapy for Women: Does it Boost Sex Drive?
- Live Science: Testosterone May Make Women Nicer
- "Understanding Medical Physiology"; R.L. Bijlani; 2004
- "The Washington Manual® Endocrinology Subspecialty Consult"; Washington University School of Medicine; 2008
