Testosterones Role in Women's Health

When we think of testosterone, most of us think of how it’s a male dominant hormone. However, testosterone actually plays a vital role in women’s health as well. Testosterone is produced by the ovaries and small amounts are released into the bloodstream by both the ovaries and adrenal glands. We just have way less testosterone compared to our male counterparts. Unlike estrogen and progesterone, our testosterone levels fluctuate a bit less. However, it does surge around ovulation and then rises slightly before menstruation. Healthy testosterone is needed for bone density and muscle mass, enhances our sex drive, supports our cardiovascular system and enhances our endurance, and contributes to our overall sense of wellbeing. A recent study also showed that testosterone helps to promote the development of follicles. However, when testosterone is way too high, it can suppress ovulation. 

When testosterone levels get out of balance, you may have irregular menstrual cycles, amenorrhea, frontal balding, acne, low libido, or even extra facial hair growth. High levels of testosterone are also linked to PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome). Women with PCOS often have menstrual irregularities, acne, thinning hair, and are prone to weight gain especially in the abdominal region. Hormones are largely about achieving balance, so we don’t want testosterone levels to be too high or too low. A healthy balance of testosterone can be achieved by lowering stress levels, implementing physical exercise, getting in plenty of healthy fats, proteins, and omega’3s for hormone health, as well as having a healthy sex life.

This blog post was written by Samantha Kloss.