Androgens

Androgens are a group of sex hormones that include testosterone, DHEA-S (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate), androstenedione, and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which are essential in small amounts for all women to maintain bone density, muscle mass, libido, and overall well-being. In PCOS, the ovaries and sometimes the adrenal glands overproduce androgens due to insulin resistance and disrupted hormonal feedback loops, leading to the characteristic symptoms of excess hair growth, acne, hair thinning, and irregular periods. Understanding which specific androgens are elevated—ovarian (testosterone) versus adrenal (DHEA-S)—helps clinicians determine the best treatment approach for each individual.