While most people associate testosterone with men, women also produce small amounts of this sex hormone. Women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, may have elevated levels of this hormone prior to the beginning of their menstrual cycle. In fact, some research has found that specific symptoms of premenstrual syndrome are closely correlated with high testosterone levels.
Testosterone in Women
Testosterone is an androgen, or sex hormone, that helps with sperm production in men and assists with the development of male sex characteristics, such as body hair. Testosterone is also thought to contribute to certain traits such as assertiveness and aggressiveness. In women, testosterone is produced in small amounts by the ovaries and adrenal glands. In an article for her website, women's health advocate Dr. Donnica Moore reports that women produce around one-seventh the amount of testosterone that men make. Men generally produce around 4 to 10 mg of testosterone daily. While scientists are well aware of the role of testosterone in the male body, not much is understood about why women's bodies produce it, according to BBC Science. Researchers believe it may help promote muscle strength and bone density. Elevated levels of testosterone may also be to blame for symptoms of PMS.
Etiology of PMS
PMS is characterized by specific symptoms such as bloating, mood swings, irritability, tension, anxiety, frequent tearfulness or feelings of rage. The exact causes of PMS aren't totally understood, but researchers believe hormonal fluctuations may play a contributing role. Although elevated testosterone levels may contribute to PMS, changes in the levels of other hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, are also thought to affect PMS symptoms. Additional factors, such as changes in brain chemistry, stress, depression and nutritional factors, may also influence PMS.
Evidence
While researchers don't completely understand what causes PMS, some studies have found that women with PMS are more likely to have elevated levels of testosterone. A study published in the May-July 1992 issue of the journal, "Psychoneuroendocrinology," found that women with PMS had significantly higher levels of testosterone during the follicular phase, around ovulation and in the luteal phase, than did normal control participants. The luteal phase of menstruation occurs right after ovulation and ends right before your next period begins. Another study, published in the February issue of the journal, "Gynecological Endocrinology," found levels of testosterone during the luteal phase was higher in women with PMS.
Considerations
You don't have to suffer needlessly from symptoms of PMS. Certain treatments, such as antidepressants and birth control pills, as well as specific lifestyle changes such as exercise and following a proper diet, may help with symptom reduction, according to MayoClinic.com. Don't attempt to self-diagnose your symptoms. If you think you have PMS, consult your doctor to discuss your condition and obtain treatment advice.
References
- DrDonnica.com: Facts Facts: Women and Testosterone
- BBC Science: Sex ID: Testosterone
- MayoClinic.com: Premenstrual Syndrome: Treatments
- "Psychoneuroendocrinology"; Serum Levels of Androgens are Higher in Women with Premenstrual Irritability and Dysphoria than in Controls; E. Eriksson, et al.; May/July 1992
- "Gynecological Endocrinology"; Adrenal Response to Adrenocorticotrophic Hormone Stimulation in Patients with Premenstrual Syndrome; I. Lombardi, et al.; February 2004
