Testosterone Tests for a Woman

Testosterone is a sex hormone present in higher amounts in men and lower amounts in women. Increasing levels in a female may signal problems, so the doctor may order a testosterone test.

When It's Done

• A doctor may order a testosterone test to diagnose decreased sex drive, infertility, pituitary or hypothalamus disorders, hirsutism (abnormal hair growth), virilization (male characteristics in a female), ovary or adrenal gland tumors, or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

How It's Done

• Testosterone levels are present in the blood, so the test requires a blood draw, usually from the back of the hand or the elbow. In small children, the blood is drawn via a prick from a lancet.

Results

• Your doctor will discuss your results with you, especially if they fall outside the range considered normal for a female, which is 20 to 80 ng/dL (nanograms per deciliter).

Treatment

• Women with high testosterone levels may be treated with hormones, often in the form of birth control pills or devices. Another option is a diet lower in sugar and refined carbohydrates.

Fun Fact

• A study published in the Aug. 24, 2009, issue of "Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences" details a link between higher testosterone levels in women and their willingness seek careers in high-risk areas, such as trading or investment banking.