Women make testosterone too, in smaller amounts. It plays a part in sex drive, muscle and bone. High testosterone in women is most often linked to PCOS and can cause extra hair, acne and irregular periods. No testosterone product is FDA-approved for women in the US, and experts support its use only for low sexual desire after menopause.
The ovaries and adrenal glands make small amounts of testosterone. MedlinePlus explains that it helps control sex drive and supports muscle and bone growth. Most testosterone in the blood is bound to proteins, such as sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). Only a small "free" part is easily used by the body.
MedlinePlus notes that low levels are normal in women, though extremely low levels can be a sign of an adrenal, pituitary or ovarian disorder.
There is no single number that fits every lab. "Normal" ranges depend on the lab, the test method, your age and the time of day. MedlinePlus explains that your provider can order:
The global consensus statement recommends total testosterone as the main measure, measured with accurate lab methods. It also says a testosterone blood level should not be used to diagnose low sexual desire. Ask your clinician to explain your result against your lab's own range.
MedlinePlus lists these possible signs:
MedlinePlus also notes the blood sample is usually taken in the morning, between 7 and 10.
Get checked promptly if these signs come on fast or are strong, such as a deepening voice. MedlinePlus lists ovarian problems, including ovarian cancer, and adrenal and pituitary disorders among the less common causes, and they need to be ruled out.
PCOS is the most common reason. MedlinePlus describes PCOS, now also known as polyendocrine metabolic ovary syndrome (PMOS), as a hormonal disorder. Most people with it have at least two of these: not ovulating regularly, high androgen levels (the group of hormones that includes testosterone), and growths on the ovaries. It often starts around the time of the first period but can begin later. PCOS tends to run in families and is linked to insulin resistance.
Because PCOS also affects blood sugar, weight and fertility, care often looks at the whole picture, not just testosterone. Our PCOS care page explains how it is evaluated.
Sometimes, but only for a narrow reason. The 2019 global consensus statement says:
In the US, this use is off-label: no product is FDA-approved for women, so clinicians who prescribe it use small doses of products approved for men. In September 2026, FDA held a public workshop to review the evidence and the gaps in it.
At doses that keep levels in the normal female range, the consensus statement found mild increases in acne and body or facial hair growth in some women. Safety data beyond 24 months are not available, and long-term breast cancer risk is not known. Doses above the female range can cause more serious changes. The statement advises checking blood levels before starting, 3 to 6 weeks after, and then every 6 months, and stopping if there is no benefit by 6 months.
Can women take testosterone? In the US, no testosterone product is FDA-approved for women. Experts support off-label use only for HSDD after menopause, with careful dosing and monitoring.
What causes high testosterone in women? PCOS is the most common cause. Others include adrenal disorders such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, pituitary disorders, and ovarian problems, including ovarian cancer (MedlinePlus).
Does testosterone help with energy or weight? The global consensus statement found no good evidence that testosterone improves wellbeing, mood, memory, body fat or muscle strength in women.
Should I test my free testosterone? Total testosterone is the usual first test. The consensus statement notes the evidence that "free" testosterone is the most active part is lacking. Your clinician will decide which test fits.
Does low testosterone cause low libido in women? Sexual desire depends on many things, including health, mood, medicines, relationships and vaginal comfort. A blood test alone can't diagnose low desire.
Talk with us about symptoms of high testosterone, PCOS or changes in desire. Book a visit or call (210) 903-1030. In-clinic in San Antonio • Telehealth for women located in Texas Yaso Wellness Health Clinic, 1907 Goliad Rd, San Antonio, TX 78223
Education only, not medical advice. In an emergency, call 911.
Leticia Vargas, MD, OB/GYN, sees patients at Yaso Wellness Health Clinic in San Antonio. About Dr. Vargas
Education only, not medical advice or a diagnosis. In an emergency, call 911.
