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The woman may suspect that there is an increase in the levels of testosterone circulating in the blood when she begins to present typically male symptoms, such as the presence of hair on the face, changes in the menstrual cycle, reduction of the breasts and a lower voice, for example.
These symptoms can appear at any stage of a woman's life, and may be due to gynecological changes, such as the presence of polycystic ovaries or cancer and ovaries, or may be a consequence of using some testosterone supplement. Thus, it is important for the woman to seek the advice of the gynecologist as soon as she notices changes, because in this way it is possible for the doctor to indicate the performance of tests that assess the circulating testosterone levels.
Signs of excess testosterone in women
Some signs that may indicate an increase in testosterone in women are:
- Increased body hair, including hair growth on the face and chest;
- Absence of menstruation or irregular menstruation;
- Oily skin and increased acne;
- Spontaneous abortions;
- Men's hair loss similar to baldness;
- Change in voice, getting more serious;
- Breast reduction;
- Clitoral enlargement;
- Changes in ovulation, which can result in infertility.
Testosterone is a hormone that although it is usually higher in men, it is also found in women in smaller amounts. However, its excessive production may be related to polycystic ovary syndrome, ovarian cancer or congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and it is important to consult the gynecologist so that tests can be done to identify the cause of the increase in testosterone and start the appropriate treatment.
How to identify high testosterone
To confirm that testosterone is increased in women, in addition to observing the appearance of signs indicating an increase in the amount of testosterone, a blood test should be performed that indicates the total amount of the hormone, such as the free and total testosterone dosage, mainly . Testosterone levels in women may vary according to age and the laboratory in which the dosage is made, with the average between 17.55 and 59.46 ng / dL. See more information about the testosterone test.
In addition to checking testosterone levels, the doctor may indicate the performance of other tests, such as the measurement of 17-α-hydroxyprogesterone and SDHEA, as well as the performance of some imaging tests, since the symptoms presented may also be indicative other changes.
If there is a suspicion that the increase in testosterone levels is due to the presence of a tumor in the ovary, the doctor may indicate the performance of imaging tests and the measurement of the tumor marker CA 125, which is usually altered in ovarian cancer. Learn more about the CA 125 exam.
How to download testosterone
Treatment to normalize testosterone levels in women may include decreasing or interrupting testosterone supplementation, if the woman is following the treatment recommended by the doctor, or it can be done with supplementation of female hormones such as estrogen to balance hormone levels. in the woman. A good option is to take the birth control pill, according to the doctor's recommendation, as it helps to lower testosterone levels in the blood.
It is also possible to naturally decrease this hormone by drinking green tea daily and adopting whole foods and decreasing the consumption of carbohydrates such as rice, pasta, potatoes and white bread. Exercising regularly and reducing daily stress is also important for regulating female hormones without having to resort to medication.
Created by: Tua Saúde Editorial Team