PCOS Science8 min read

Androgen Levels in PCOS: Latest Research Findings

Understanding how elevated androgens affect PCOS symptoms and new treatment approaches based on recent clinical studies.

What You'll Learn

The role of androgens in PCOS development
How high androgen levels influence symptoms
New research on androgen-targeted therapies
Practical strategies to manage hormonal imbalance

Understanding Androgens in PCOS

Androgens, often referred to as 'male hormones,' are present in all women at low levels. In individuals with PCOS, these hormone levels are abnormally high, a condition known as hyperandrogenism. Elevated androgens are considered a core feature of PCOS and are linked to common symptoms like acne, excess facial and body hair (hirsutism), and irregular periods.

Key Statistics from Recent Studies

80%

of PCOS patients show clinical or biochemical signs of hyperandrogenism

65%

report hirsutism as a primary concern

increased risk of insulin resistance in women with high androgen levels

How Androgens Affect PCOS Symptoms

Elevated androgen levels influence a range of bodily functions and symptoms. Understanding their impact is key to both diagnosis and treatment.

Hirsutism & Acne

Androgens stimulate hair follicles and sebaceous glands, leading to excess hair and acne.

Irregular Periods

High androgen levels interfere with ovulation, often causing missed or irregular cycles.

Hormonal Imbalance

Androgens disrupt the normal balance between estrogen and progesterone, altering reproductive hormones.

Recent Research Insights

Ongoing research has significantly improved our understanding of androgen production and its effects in PCOS. Here are key findings:

Adrenal vs Ovarian Androgens

Studies show that in about 20-30% of PCOS cases, the adrenal glands—not the ovaries—are the primary source of androgen overproduction.

New Therapeutic Targets

Research in 2023 suggests that targeting androgen receptors may reduce symptoms more effectively than traditional oral contraceptives.

Anti-Androgen Medications

Drugs like spironolactone and flutamide show promise in reducing hirsutism and acne when used with lifestyle changes.

Steps to Diagnose Hyperandrogenism

Diagnosing high androgen levels in PCOS requires both clinical observation and lab tests. The typical process includes:

Diagnostic Process

Clinical examination for acne, hirsutism, and alopecia

Blood tests measuring total and free testosterone

Assessment of DHEA-S and androstenedione levels

Ultrasound to rule out other causes of symptoms

Managing Elevated Androgens

Lifestyle changes remain foundational in managing PCOS, but additional treatment options specifically targeting androgen levels are also vital.

Lifestyle & Diet

Low-glycemic diet to stabilize insulin
Regular aerobic exercise
Weight loss (if overweight) to reduce hormone levels
Avoiding high-sugar and processed foods

Medical Treatments

Combined oral contraceptives to suppress androgen production
Anti-androgens like spironolactone (under medical supervision)
Inositol supplements shown to improve insulin and hormone levels
Insulin-sensitizers like metformin to indirectly reduce androgens

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