PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a common condition in women that causes an imbalance in hormones.
One of the main symptoms of PCOS is having higher than normal levels of testosterone, a hormone that, while naturally present in women but can cause issues when elevated. This extra testosterone can result in irregular periods, acne, and unwanted hair growth on the face and body. It can also make it more difficult to get pregnant. Although the exact cause isn’t clear, PCOS is often linked to problems with insulin and genetics.
Many women find that changes in diet, exercise, and sometimes medication can help manage these symptoms and improve overall health.
How to treat high testosterone in a woman naturally:
Lets see how to treat high testosterone in a woman naturally.
1. Lifestyle and Dietary Changes:
Low Glycemic Diet: Eating whole, unprocessed foods can help stabilize blood sugar and reduce insulin resistance, which is a key factor in high testosterone levels, especially in conditions like PCOS.
Tip: Eat plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Fiber-Rich Foods: Foods high in fiber help improve insulin sensitivity and can assist in regulating hormone levels.
Healthy Fats: Including sources like avocados, nuts, and olive oil may support overall hormonal health.
Also Read: Foods to Avoid in PCOS
2. Weight Management and Exercise:
Consistent exercise helps in regulating insulin levels and can contribute to lowering excess testosterone. Both aerobic activities and resistance training are beneficial.
Weight Loss (if needed): For many women, particularly those with PCOS, reducing excess body fat can significantly improve hormonal balance and lower testosterone levels.
Also Read: How to Lose Weight with Thyroid and PCOS through Diet?
3. Herbal Remedies and Supplements:
Spearmint Tea: Some studies suggest that drinking spearmint tea twice daily may help reduce free testosterone levels. It’s considered one of the more accessible and gentle herbal approaches.
Grant, P. M., Feustel, P. J., & Taylor, A. (2007). “Spearmint tea has significant anti-androgen effects in polycystic ovarian syndrome”. Phytotherapy Research, 21(8), 733–735.
Inositol: Often used as a supplement for women with PCOS, inositol may help improve insulin sensitivity and hormonal regulation.
Vitamin D: Adequate vitamin D levels are important for overall endocrine function. If you’re deficient, supplementation may help normalize hormone levels.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil or flaxseed, these can help reduce inflammation and support metabolic health.
Note: Herbal supplements should be used cautiously and under professional guidance, as they can interact with medications or have side effects.
4. Stress Management and Sleep:
Chronic stress can worsen hormonal imbalances. Techniques like mindfulness, yoga, meditation, or even regular physical exercise can help manage stress.
Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night as it supports overall endocrine health and helps regulate stress hormones, which indirectly can impact testosterone levels.
Tip: Avoid Endocrine Disruptors. Reduce exposure to chemicals found in some plastics and personal care products that may disrupt hormonal balance.
Keeping a journal of your diet, exercise, and any herbal or supplemental intake can be helpful. It allows you and your doctor to see what strategies are most effective over time.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What happens if a woman’s testosterone is too high?
When a woman’s testosterone is too high, it can cause irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, and physical changes such as increased facial and body hair growth (hirsutism), acne, and scalp hair thinning and metabolic issues like insulin resistance.
What drink decreases testosterone?
A study published in Phytotherapy Research found that daily consumption of spearmint tea can cause a significant decrease in free testosterone among women with hirsutism, likely due to its anti-androgenic properties.
Can a woman with high testosterone get pregnant?
Women with high testosterone often experiences extended follicular phases and a higher incidence of amenorrhea or anovulation, which can complicate fertility; however, research indicates that with tailored interventions, such as lifestyle modifications, ovulation induction, and other treatments pregnancy rates can approach 50%, which shows that many women can achieve pregnancy despite these hormonal challenges.
Do lesbians have higher testosterone?
Current research does not support the notion that lesbians have higher testosterone levels than heterosexual women. Although early hypotheses explored hormonal influences on sexual orientation, numerous studies have consistently shown that circulating testosterone levels are similar across sexual orientations, and any observed differences are minor and not clinically significant.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice.