Excess Testosterone

High testosterone in women is a real concern for many women. It often causes other unwanted concerns for women, including facial hair growth, hair loss on the top of your head, ily skin, and acne.

While testosterone is good for women, all hormones need to be in balance, and too much causes issues.

High Testosterone in Women Can Cause…

  • Hair loss on the scalp

  • Excess body hair, called hirsutism (especially upper lip, chin, chest and abdomen)

  • Struggles with fertility

  • Acne

  • Oily skin

  • Increased body odor

  • Irritability

What Causes Excess Testosterone levels in women?

There can be several mechanisms at play, but the most common cause of elevated testosterone levels in women is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).

Blood sugar dysregulation and insulin resistance is the foundation for PCOS. The body tries to manage blood sugar dysregulation though insulin resistance, but while the body may be come insulin resistant, the ovaries will continue to respond to insulin. This stimulation causes the ovary to produce testosterone. In women with PCOS (and the chronic insulin overstimulation that accompanies it), this can lead to the typical structural changes that are seen in PCOS.

Treating High Testosterone…

My favorite interventions:

  1. Regular meals, eliminate eating on the go

  2. Eliminated processed, junk-type foods, especially sugary foods

  3. Swapping black coffee for green tea, as green tea has anti-testosterone effects

  4. Hormone supportive herbs such as Reishi, Peony, Saw Palmetto, Vitex and Licorice

  5. Incorporating ground flax seeds into daily routine

  6. Regular sleep