A group of hormones, including testosterone, that women naturally have too.
What androgens are
Androgens are a group of hormones such as testosterone, androstenedione, and DHEA-S, made by the ovaries and adrenal glands. They are often thought of as male hormones, but women produce them in smaller amounts as part of a normal hormone balance. At balanced levels, androgens support everyday body functions, including bone and muscle health and sex drive. Trouble only arises when their effect or level becomes too high relative to usual. For a wider view of the hormone system, see the hormones page.
How they relate to PCOS
In PCOS, androgen levels or activity are often higher, a state called hyperandrogenism. This is what can contribute to acne, oily skin, excess facial or body hair (hirsutism), and scalp hair thinning. Hyperandrogenism is one of the core features in the PCOS diagnostic criteria, picked up either through clinical signs or blood tests such as testosterone and SHBG. It is only one of several features assessed together. Even so, androgen levels are read alongside cycle pattern and other findings, not in isolation.
Signs linked to androgens
When androgen effects are higher, they can show up as hormonal acne, oily skin and hair, coarser facial or body hair (hirsutism), and sometimes scalp hair thinning. These signs tend to develop gradually rather than suddenly. Not everyone has all of these signs, and how strong they are varies because each person’s skin tissue has a different sensitivity to androgens. Some women have clear signs even when blood tests look moderate, while others have higher readings but few outward signs. Read more on the PCOS symptoms page.
How a doctor assesses them
Androgen effects can be judged in two ways: clinically, through visible signs, and through blood tests such as testosterone and SHBG that help estimate how much active androgen is present. Both approaches have limits, so a doctor weighs test results alongside your symptom picture. Levels that are very high or rising quickly may prompt extra checks to rule out other causes. Any plan to reduce androgen effects, whether through medicine or lifestyle steps, should be discussed with a doctor according to your situation and personal goals.
This glossary is education, not diagnosis. For your own situation, ask a doctor or pharmacist.