How to treat excess testosterone in women

Both men and women produce the sex hormone testosterone, but in different amounts and with some different functions. In the male body, the hormone is produced in the testicles, in the female body in the ovaries and in the adrenal glands.

What are the functions of testosterone?

During puberty, in both girls and boys, testosterone promotes body growth, the development of sexual characteristics, such as pubic, armpit and leg hair, and the stimulation of sexual desire. In men, in addition, the hormone is necessary for the development of the sexual organs and the production of semen.

testosterone it is also responsible for muscle growth and reduction of body fat and intervenes in the ability to concentrate.

On the other hand, the rise in testosterone is related to skin blemishes and hair loss.

Testosterone in the female body

From the first day of the menstrual cycle, the testosterone level increases and it peaks on the day of ovulation. During this time, the sexual desire is greater.

If there is a suspicion of an elevated testosterone level, this is measured between the third and fifth day with a blood test. The optimal values ​​are between 0.14 and 0.76 µg/l. More than 0.76 µg/L reveals excess testosterone, which may be accompanied by excess estrogen (formed from testosterone).

In the second half of the cycle, the testosterone level drops again until the period. During this time, testosterone is converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which controls oil production in the skin and scalp. .

Symptoms of excess testosterone in women

Elevated testosterone levels can cause the following symptoms:

pimples and acne on the face, neckline and back.Loss of hair.hair growth in the armpits, legs and pubis, on the upper lip, light hair on the chest or between the abdomen and the genital area.libido disorder, strong or weak sexual desireDisorders of the menstrual cycle, as missing periods for several cycles.cysts in the ovary.decreased fertility due to lack of ovulation…feature formation masculine in appearance, deeper voice.Enlargement of the clitoris.Blood pressure high.Development muscular.Increase of weight.

Since excess testosterone has a strong influence on insulin secretion, it can lead to insulin resistance, which can lead to diabetes.

Elevated Testosterone Levels Can Be Dangerous

A study from the University of Cambridge found that high testosterone levels can have dangerous effects on women’s health: increases the risk of diabetes and breast and cervical cancer.

On the other hand, in men it does not present this harmful effect.

Contraception and excess testosterone

When women stop taking hormonal contraceptives such as the pill, the IUS or the Nuva ring, it often happens that the hormonal system is revolutionized and testosterone dominates over other hormones.

Usually, hormones stabilize again in about half a year, although there may be large differences between women.

If the hormones do not stabilize on their own, it is advisable to go to a gynecologist or endocrinologist.

Other causes of increased testosterone levels in women

How to lower testosterone naturally

There are several ways to support hormonal balance. In general, it is important that you give your body enough time to adjust. A healthy lifestyle has a regulatory effect on hormones: avoid stress, get enough sleep and eat a balanced and nutritious diet. In addition, the following tips can help you:

1. Practice sports

An active lifestyle with sufficient exercise and sport stimulates circulation and tones the body. Besides, can regulate the hormonal balance in the long term. However, be careful not to overdo it, as it could have the opposite effect.

2. Pay attention to the zinc supply

After iron, zinc is one of the most common trace elements in the human body. It can increase testosterone levels because it stimulates an enzyme necessary for its production, but it also participates in the control of the hormone, so consumption of the recommended daily dose is essential.

Zinc is found in foods like pumpkin seeds, lentils, and oats.

3. Stops the secretion of insulin

An excess of insulin can be associated with an excess of testosterone. Since the job of insulin is to control blood sugar levels, it makes sense to avoid foods that cause your blood sugar to spike. These are mainly white flour-based products, refined sugar, ultra-processed products, and sugar-sweetened beverages.

4. Increase estrogen through food

Soy products such as tofu, milk, or tempeh contain phytoestrogens, They have a positive effect on reducing testosterone levels in the body.

5. Rely on omega-3 fatty acids and lignans

Omega-3 fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory effect and lignans, contained in flax or sesame seeds, they can reduce free testosterone.

On the other hand, omega-6 fatty acids and foods with cholesterol should be on the menu in moderation.

6. Active ingredients of plant origin

plants like saw palmettochasteberry, licorice, peppermint and lavender can have a positive effect on hormonal balance.

If you suffer from any condition, it is best to consult your doctor, as herbal remedies may also have contraindications.

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