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When to suspect androgen deficiency other than at menopause
1The Jean Hailes Foundation, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
Fertility and Sterility
|May 15, 2002
Summary
Female androgen insufficiency (FAI) is most commonly caused by the natural decline in androgens with aging before menopause, not menopause itself. Many women with FAI remain undiagnosed until menopause.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Health
- Gerontology
Background:
- Female androgen insufficiency (FAI) is a condition characterized by low androgen levels.
- The causes of FAI, particularly those unrelated to menopause, require thorough investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the causes of female androgen insufficiency (FAI) excluding menopause.
- To differentiate between age-related androgen decline and menopausal effects on androgen levels.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive review of existing scientific literature.
- Analysis of studies investigating androgen levels in women across different life stages.
Main Results:
- Androgen levels naturally decrease with age in reproductive-aged women.
- Menopause itself does not significantly alter androgen levels; premenopausal decline is a primary cause of FAI.
- Pathophysiological causes of FAI include ovarian and adrenal dysfunction, or combined deficiencies.
Conclusions:
- The most frequent cause of FAI is the age-related decline in testosterone before menopause.
- Many women with FAI experience nonspecific symptoms and are often diagnosed during or after menopause.