PCOS and High Testosterone
Struggling with Menstrual Cycle Problems? Discover the Solutions
Are you a woman dealing with painful or inconsistent menstrual cycles? This problem can be overwhelming, but the solution might be closer than you think. Dive into this article, and learn how hormone imbalances, particularly with testosterone, can impact your menstrual health and well-being.
Male Hormones in Female Bodies - A Delicate Balance
Understanding Androgens
Male hormones, called androgens, play a role in the female body. Certain levels are normal and needed. But when these hormones rise, particularly testosterone, it can turn typical menstrual cycles into uncomfortable or even agonizing experiences.
The Devastation of High Testosterone in Women
It's no secret that having too much testosterone can create issues for women. Let's have a look at what you might face:
Hair loss/male pattern baldness
Excessive hair growth
Weight gain
Ovarian cysts
Low libido
Fatigue
Acne
Mood swings
Difficulty conceiving
If you notice the testosterone and estrogen chart below, you'll see how testosterone stays relatively low during the menstrual cycle, with a spike that remains below estrogen's levels.
But, women with PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) experience alarmingly high testosterone with low estrogen. Imagine these levels swapping, with testosterone consistently high. That's the picture.
Factors Causing High Testosterone
Many factors can drive testosterone high, including:
Poor gut health
Elevated insulin
High blood sugar
Concussions
Food sensitivities causing low hydrochloric acid levels
The Androgen Dilemma – What's Going on in Your Body?
Androgens might seem mysterious, but they don't have to be. Many culprits, like excessive insulin and genetics, are at play. While we can't change our genes, we can adjust our lifestyles to reduce the symptoms.
Lifestyle Changes to Counter High Androgens
Making five or six alterations in your life may lead to significant improvements. Adjustments in diet, quitting smoking, and embracing a multifaceted approach to medicine can make a world of difference.
Finding Harmony - The Importance of Hormone Balance
Life's all about balance, and your body's hormones are no different. If hormones like progesterone are out of whack, your body might not function properly.
Hormones and Insulin's Role
Your hormones come from cholesterol. But high levels of hormones like insulin can disrupt this processing system.
Get your insulin levels checked! Normal levels should be between 4 and 7. Anything higher can cause inflammation, leading to a rise in testosterone and other male hormones. You don't want that!
The Power of Progesterone in Men and Women
This vital hormone plays different roles in men and women. In females, it's tied to vitality and youthfulness. In males, excessive estrogen can lead to unwanted physical changes.
Keeping Insulin Levels in Check
Monitoring your insulin levels helps maintain proper hormone balance. If it's too high, your menstrual cycle can get thrown off completely. Keeping these hormones in harmony ensures a healthy cycle.
Healing and Hope - Taking Control of Your Health
Feeling overwhelmed? Don't fret. Numerous studies, like the one published in 2021 citing over 230 sources, show that various treatments, from supplements to dietary changes, can support healthy reproductive organs.
If you're struggling with PCOS due to high testosterone, know that there are many different factors at play and several courses of treatment. Reach out to start your path to healing and get your cycles working correctly. There's hope for your health, and you don't have to face it alone.
