Low or high testosterone levels: What's your experience?
in Women's Health ·
Hey everyone,
So, I finally went in to get my hormone levels checked, and it turns out I’ve got hyperandrogenism. Before this, my OB-GYN was dead set on the idea that I had PCOS—I dealt with acne (had to go on Accutane for it), excess hair growth, and my ovaries looked polycystic on the ultrasound—but since my cycles were actually regular, she didn't think we needed to run any specific hormone panels.
But after about a year on the pill, things started going south. I began missing my periods entirely, and even when she switched me to different brands, the bleeding would just stop again anyway. On top of that, I started dealing with chronic bloating, high cholesterol, hair thinning, and this constant anxiety. We eventually decided I needed to get off the hormones altogether, but it’s been five months now and I haven't had a period or ovulated once, unless I managed to force it through some checks.
I ended up switching doctors, and this new guy actually sent me for the bloodwork. It turns out everything is fine except for my testosterone—those androgen levels are through the roof—so he's officially ruled out PCOS.
Now they’re referring me to an endocrinologist because they suspect there might be an issue with my pituitary gland. He’s already ordered more tests, specifically looking at pituitary hormones and an OGTT.
I’m honestly wondering what I should expect from all of this. What could be causing the hyperandrogenism, and why am I struggling to ovulate while my symptoms seem to be getting worse over time? My appointment isn't for another month, so I’d really appreciate hearing if anyone has gone through something similar or has any advice.
Thanks in advance for the help.
So, I finally went in to get my hormone levels checked, and it turns out I’ve got hyperandrogenism. Before this, my OB-GYN was dead set on the idea that I had PCOS—I dealt with acne (had to go on Accutane for it), excess hair growth, and my ovaries looked polycystic on the ultrasound—but since my cycles were actually regular, she didn't think we needed to run any specific hormone panels.
But after about a year on the pill, things started going south. I began missing my periods entirely, and even when she switched me to different brands, the bleeding would just stop again anyway. On top of that, I started dealing with chronic bloating, high cholesterol, hair thinning, and this constant anxiety. We eventually decided I needed to get off the hormones altogether, but it’s been five months now and I haven't had a period or ovulated once, unless I managed to force it through some checks.
I ended up switching doctors, and this new guy actually sent me for the bloodwork. It turns out everything is fine except for my testosterone—those androgen levels are through the roof—so he's officially ruled out PCOS.
Now they’re referring me to an endocrinologist because they suspect there might be an issue with my pituitary gland. He’s already ordered more tests, specifically looking at pituitary hormones and an OGTT.
I’m honestly wondering what I should expect from all of this. What could be causing the hyperandrogenism, and why am I struggling to ovulate while my symptoms seem to be getting worse over time? My appointment isn't for another month, so I’d really appreciate hearing if anyone has gone through something similar or has any advice.
Thanks in advance for the help.