Why Testosterone is Important for Female Fertility
When we think about hormones essential for female fertility, estrogen and progesterone often take center stage. However, testosterone—often thought of as a "male hormone"—plays a critical role in a woman’s reproductive health. It supports follicular development, influences ovarian function, and contributes to overall hormonal balance.
Understanding testosterone’s role can be particularly important for women with conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or Diminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR). Let’s explore how testosterone affects female fertility and how hormone testing can provide valuable insights.
Testosterone’s Role in Follicle Development
Healthy follicular development is key for ovulation and fertility. Testosterone contributes to this process by:
Enhancing the sensitivity of follicles to Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), a hormone necessary for egg maturation and ovulation.
Supporting early follicular growth, which may improve the quality of eggs.
Acting as a precursor to estrogen, which is essential for a healthy menstrual cycle and implantation.
If testosterone levels are too low, follicular development may be impaired, reducing the chances of ovulation and healthy egg release. On the other hand, excess testosterone (as seen in conditions like PCOS) can negatively impact ovulation.
Testosterone and PCOS
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age. It is often characterized by:
Elevated testosterone levels, which can contribute to irregular or absent ovulation.
Insulin resistance, which may further exacerbate testosterone imbalances.
Anovulation, making conception more difficult.
For women with PCOS, balancing testosterone levels through lifestyle, nutrition, and targeted supplementation can help restore ovulation and improve fertility outcomes.
Testosterone and Diminished Ovarian Reserve (Low AMH)
Women diagnosed with Diminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR) or low Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels often have fewer eggs remaining in their ovaries. While AMH is typically the key marker for ovarian reserve, testosterone also plays a role.
Low testosterone levels can reduce follicular responsiveness to FSH, making egg development less efficient.
Testosterone and its precursor, DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone), may help support ovarian function. Some studies suggest DHEA supplementation can improve egg quality in women with low ovarian reserve.
Because testosterone levels decline with age, testing and addressing deficiencies may be a useful strategy for women trying to conceive.
Hormone Testing Recommendations for Fertility
Comprehensive bloodwork is key to understanding how testosterone and other hormones affect fertility. Here’s what I recommend testing and how to approach it:
1. Testosterone (Total & Free Testosterone)
Why test? Helps determine if levels are too high (PCOS) or too low (DOR, poor follicle development).
2. Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)
Why test? Measures ovarian reserve (egg quantity).
3. DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate)
Why test? Assesses adrenal androgen production, which influences testosterone levels.
4. SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin)
Why test? SHBG binds to testosterone, making it unavailable. Low SHBG often leads to higher free testosterone (seen in PCOS).
Testosterone is a vital but often overlooked hormone in female fertility. Whether you are dealing with PCOS, diminished ovarian reserve, or just trying to optimize your chances of conception, hormone testing can provide crucial insights.
If you’re unsure where to start, I can help you interpret your hormone levels and create a personalized fertility nutrition plan. Reach out today to learn more about how nutrition and lifestyle changes can support optimal hormonal balance and fertility.
