Hormonal Reset: How to Lower Testosterone in PCOS?
If you have been diagnosed with PCOS, your doctor must have told you that your Testosterone levels are high and you need to lower them.
But you may have no idea how to lower Testosterone in PCOS.
And it’s alright! It’s not a thing or general knowledge that we all must have.
But yes, lowering your Testosterone levels is essential if you want to get back to your regular menstrual cycle.
So today, we will discuss some easy and effective ways to reduce your Testosterone levels if you have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
Medications
Medication may be recommended to lower your Testosterone levels effectively.
They will help in maintaining a hormonal balance and managing PCOS symptoms.
Common medications to lower Testosterone levels include:
Birth control pills
Oral contraceptives containing Estrogen and Progestin can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce Androgen production.
These pills also help to reduce excessive hair growth and acne, which are the prime symptoms of PCOS.
Anti-Androgen medications
Anti-Androgen medications are commonly used in the management of PCOS to reduce the effects of excessive Androgens, such as Testosterone, in the body.
These medications block the Androgen receptors or inhibit the enzymes responsible for Androgen synthesis.
A common anti-Androgen medicine prescribed for treating PCOS is Spironolactone (Aldactone). It helps by reducing this hormonal disorder symptom.
Insulin-sensitizing agents
If insulin resistance is present, medications may be prescribed to improve insulin sensitivity, which can indirectly help lower Testosterone levels.
Metformin is a medication that is usually prescribed for this purpose.
A study was conducted on the effect of Metformin on Testosterone levels.
There were two groups; the Metformin group and the control group. The former consumed this medication for three months, while the latter didn’t administer it.
The results after three months showed that Testosterone levels in the Metformin group significantly decreased compared to the control group.
Recommended reading:Metformin for PCOS: Bridging the Gap to a Healthier Life
Lifestyle modifications
Many people, or maybe you also, may not want to take the medication route as it sometimes leads to side effects.
So the crucial question that comes now is how to naturally lower Testosterone in PCOS.
Making certain lifestyle changes can significantly impact managing PCOS symptoms and reducing Testosterone levels.
You can follow these tips to naturally lower Testosterone levels:
Balanced diet
Focus on a nutrient-dense, low-glycemic diet. It can include the following:
- Whole grains
- Proteins
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Healthy fats
Limit your intake of refined carbohydrates and sugary foods, as they can spike insulin levels, worsening PCOS symptoms.
Regular exercise
Exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity, manage weight, and reduce Testosterone levels.
Thus, engage in physical activity and try to be regular.
A study was conducted on obese women to compare the effects of 5-week High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and Moderate-to-Vigorous Intensity Continuous Training (MVCT).
The results showed that the exercise training led to a decline in Testosterone levels.
Natural remedies and supplements
Several natural remedies and supplements may assist in managing PCOS symptoms and balancing hormone levels.
However, you must consult your doctor before incorporating natural remedies or supplements into your diet.
Some options to consider include:
Inositol
Inositol, specifically Myo-inositol, has gained attention as a potential treatment for PCOS due to its positive effects on hormone regulation.
Studies suggest that Myo-inositol can help lower Testosterone levels in women with PCOS by improving insulin sensitivity.
Spearmint tea
Spearmint tea has been studied for its potential to lower Testosterone levels in individuals with PCOS.
It contains compounds that possess anti-Androgenic properties, which can help reduce excessive Androgen levels.
However, the exact mechanism of how it works has yet to be fully understood.
Recommended reading:Unleashing the Potential: Spearmint Tea for PCOS
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are effective against high levels of Testosterone.
A study was conducted to determine the effect of omega-3 supplementation on Testosterone in women with PCOS.
The results showed a decrease in Testosterone concentration after an 8-week trial.
You can find Omega-3 in the following food items:
- Fatty fish (such as salmon, tuna)
- Flaxseeds
- Walnuts
- Soybean oil
- Chia seeds
Takeaway
Lowering Testosterone levels in PCOS is essential for managing symptoms and restoring hormonal balance.
While medications like birth control pills and anti-androgen drugs can be effective, consulting a healthcare professional for proper guidance and prescription is crucial.
Lifestyle modifications such as adopting a balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise can play a significant role in naturally reducing Testosterone levels.
Incorporating natural remedies and supplements like Inositol, spearmint tea, and omega-3 fatty acids may also help lower Testosterone levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you lower Testosterone levels in PCOS?
Yes, Testosterone levels can be lowered in PCOS through various approaches such as medications like birth control pills, lifestyle modifications including a balanced diet and exercise, and natural remedies like Inositol and omega-3 fatty acids.
How can I lower my Testosterone quickly?
Lowering Testosterone quickly is best done under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Options may include medication such as anti-Androgens, hormonal contraceptives, or insulin-sensitizing agents which can help reduce Testosterone levels.
What helps lower Testosterone in PCOS?
Testosterone in PCOS can be lowered in many ways. You may be recommended medication to reduce Testosterone and create a hormonal balance. But along with it, lifestyle modifications such as eating healthy and exercising regularly can be more effective.
What foods lower Testosterone in females?
Certain foods may help lower Testosterone levels in females. These include flaxseeds, spearmint tea, soy products, and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like fatty fish, walnuts, chia seeds, etc.
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