Androstenedione is a sex hormone that has “masculinising” (androgenic) effects. It belongs to the group of male hormones (androgens). In women, about 90 % of the hormone is produced by the ovaries and the adrenal glands. About 10 % is produced in the fatty tissue by conversion from DHEA. Elevated androstenedione levels are found in women with increased male body hair, acne, ovarian dysfunction (for example, in menstrual disorders) and an unfulfilled desire to have children. Very often, other male hormones are elevated at the same time.
This article has been reviewed by a physician
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