Not only important for men. But this hormone plays a vital role in women as well. In women is produced in the ovaries and the adrenal gland. It is only one of the many male sex hormones in females. These hormones have crucial effects on ovarian function, bone strength and sexual behavior.
It is important for the body to find a balance between testosterone and estrogen for the ovaries to work correctly.
Excess testosterone in women is the most common cause of polycystic ovarian syndrome. The ovaries may contain several cysts. Symptoms include; irregular periods, reduced fertility, thick skin, weight gain, depression and anxiety.
On the other hand a deficiency is also an issue. Women can experience a low libido, reduced bone strength, poor concentration or depression.
Men have gotten a bad rap for high levels of testosterone. However, bad behavior is due to the man not the hormone. High levels of testosterone are generally not an issue for men. On average the only men who suffer from too much testosterone is ones who are using steroids. Symptoms of excess testosterone in men may include; low sperm counts, heart muscle damage, prostate enlargement, difficulty urinating, liver disease, acne, swelling of the legs and feet, high blood pressure, insomnia, headaches, increased muscle mass, mood swings, euphoria, irritability, impaired judgment, and even delusions.
Symptoms of testosterone deficiency may include; reduced body and facial hair, loss of muscle mass, low libido, impotence, small testicles, reduced sperm and infertility, increase in breast size, brittle bones and increase in fractures. Most men are treated with testosterone replacement via injections or a testosterone patch.
NOTE: Testosterone is synthesized in the body from cholesterol. It acts as a precursor and aids in growth. That doesn’t mean to run out and eat all the saturated fats available to you. High cholesterol is due to excess; maintain a balance of carbs, protein and essential fatty acids.