Evidence-informed guide Glossary

Androgen (PCOS Glossary)

Androgen: a group of hormones including testosterone that, when high in PCOS, can drive acne, excess hair, and scalp thinning.

by Pasukan Editorial Panduan PCOS Last reviewed: 5 May 2026

Only a doctor can diagnose PCOS. This article is for education, not a substitute for medical advice.

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Why it matters for PCOS
FAQ
Sources

A group of hormones, including testosterone, that women naturally have too.

Why it matters for PCOS

Androgens are a group of hormones such as testosterone, androstenedione, and DHEA-S, made by the ovaries and adrenal glands. Women carry androgens in small amounts as part of normal hormone balance. In PCOS, androgen levels or activity are often higher (called hyperandrogenism), and this is what can contribute to acne, oily skin, excess facial or body hair (hirsutism), and scalp hair thinning.

Hyperandrogenism is one of the core features in the PCOS diagnostic criteria, picked up either through clinical signs or blood tests such as testosterone and SHBG. Even so, androgen levels are interpreted alongside symptoms and other findings, not in isolation.

This glossary is education, not diagnosis. For your own situation, ask a doctor or pharmacist.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Androgen?

Androgen means a group of hormones that includes testosterone and related hormones. Women naturally have androgens too.

How does Androgen relate to PCOS?

Higher androgen levels or higher androgen activity can contribute to acne, oily skin, excess facial hair, and scalp hair thinning.

Can Androgen diagnose PCOS by itself?

No, but high androgens (hyperandrogenism) are one of the main PCOS criteria. A doctor still weighs symptoms, cycle pattern, blood tests, and sometimes ultrasound together.

Sources

Teede HJ et al.. International evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome 2023. Fertility and Sterility / Endocrine Society. 2023.PubMed