What are Androgen Hormones?
Androgen hormones are sex hormones often referred to as “male hormones.” The term originates from the Greek words ἀνδρός (andros, meaning “man”) and γένος (genos, meaning “male”). Androgens are produced in the testes, ovaries, and adrenal glands and serve as precursors to estrogenic hormones in women.
Which Hormones are Classified as Androgens?
Androgens include:
- Testosterone (total and free) – the most important androgen
- DHT (dihydrotestosterone) – a metabolite of testosterone, stronger than testosterone
- DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) – derived from cholesterol in the adrenal cortex
- DHEAS (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) – converts to testosterone, androstenedione, and estrogen
- Androsterone – derived from progesterone or as a byproduct of androgen breakdown
- Androstenedione – converts to androgens and estrone
- Androstenediol – the main regulator of gonadotropin secretion
Although these are termed “male hormones,” they are also produced in female bodies, albeit in significantly lower concentrations.
What is the Purpose of Androgenic Hormones?
Regardless of gender, androgens have positive effects on:
- Muscle development
- Bone density
- Puberty
- Production of red blood cells (erythrocytes)
- Libido and sexual function
Role of Androgens in Men:
- Deepening of voice
- Growth of facial, body, and genital hair
- Sperm development
What is the Role of Androgens in Women?
In women, androgens function as precursors to estrogenic hormones. Through specific mechanisms, androgens are converted into estradiol, a form of estrogen. Estradiol plays roles such as:
- Regulating menstruation
- Aiding conception and pregnancy
- Protecting against osteoporosis
- Stimulating the growth of pubic and underarm hair
Elevated or Reduced Levels of Androgen Hormones
Both men and women can experience elevated or reduced levels of androgens. High androgen levels are referred to as hyperandrogenism, which is more commonly seen in women. The most common cause of hyperandrogenism is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), often accompanied by:
- Amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) or abnormal periods
- Acne
- Excessive hair growth (hirsutism) or hair loss
- High blood pressure and high cholesterol
- Obesity
- Infertility, among others
Low androgen levels, known as hypoandrogenism, may lead to osteoporosis and bone fractures, decreased libido, and fatigue. Low androgen or testosterone levels in men (male hypogonadism) can cause anxiety, depression, concentration difficulties, low exercise tolerance, decreased sexual drive, and erectile dysfunction. It can also lead to gynecomastia (breast development). Unhealthy androgen levels may also increase the risk of issues such as diabetes.
When and Why are Androgen Hormones Tested?
There are numerous reasons for laboratory tests measuring individual or groups of androgens to identify androgen disorders, serving as an auxiliary diagnostic tool. For some tests, a woman’s biological phase or the time of day (circadian rhythm) is essential. It is generally recommended to take a blood sample in the morning before breakfast.
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