Testosterone, often also called the “male” sex hormone, is an androgen that is mainly produced in the testes in men and in smaller amounts in the ovaries in women, as well in the adrenal glands. Testosterone is important for the development of male characteristics, such as growth of height, muscles and hair. In women, testosterone is important for the ovarian function and bone strength. High levels of testosterone and other androgens (hyperandrogenism) in women can lead to symptoms such as hirsutism, acne or hair loss, which can be a sign of PCOS.
Sources:
- Hormone Health Network (Endocrine Society). Testosterone and Androgens. https://www.hormone.org/your-health-and-hormones/glands-and-hormones-a-to-z/hormones/testosterone (accessed 8. August 2020)
- You and Your Hormones (Society for Endocrinology UK). Testosterone. https://www.yourhormones.info/hormones/testosterone/ (accessed 8. August 2020)
- Harvard Health Publishing. Harvard Medical School. Testosterone — What It Does And Doesn’t Do. https://www.health.harvard.edu/drugs-and-medications/testosterone–what-it-does-and-doesnt-do (accessed 8. August 2020)
