Effects of Hyperandrogenism

In Women

Hyperandrogenism, especially high levels of testosterone, can cause serious adverse effects on women’s bodies if left untreated.  High testosterone levels have been seen to be associated with obesity, hypertension, amenorrhea(stop of menstrual cycles), and ovulatory dysfunction, which can lead to infertility.  The more prominent signs of hyperandrogenism are hirsutism, unwanted growth of hair in the abdominal region and places on the back,  acne after adolescents, deepening of voice, and alopecia(balding).[3] Hyperandrogenism has also been seen to cause individuals to have a high tolerance to insulin, which can lead to type two diabetes, and dyslipidemia, such as high cholesterol. These effects have been seen to have a large psychological impact on the individual, sometimes often leading to anxiety and depression, especially in adolescent girls and young women. Paired with obesity and hirsutism, it can cause the individual to have low self-esteem, and a poor view of oneself.[2]

In Men

Even though hyperandrogenism is not common in men, there has been studies done to look at the effects of high levels of testosterone in male bodies.  A study have shown that even though many of the male participates did not have a behavior changes due to the increased levels of testosterone, there were cases where the participants had instances of uncharacteristic aggression. High levels of testosterone in male has not been seen to have a direct impact on their personality, but within some studies, there have been cases of sudden aggression within male participants.[6]