Relationship of Androgens to Female Hirsutism and Infertility

The study explored the relationship between androgens and female hirsutism and infertility, highlighting that most circulating androgens in women are formed by conversion of secreted precursors rather than direct secretion. It found that moderately severe male-pattern hirsutism is often linked to elevated free plasma androgen levels, with 85% of cases showing this characteristic. Low testosterone binding globulin (Te BG) levels were common in hirsutism, leading to higher free plasma androgen levels. The study suggested that ovarian overproduction of androgens is more closely related to infertility than adrenal overproduction, as excessive androgens can interfere with ovulation. It concluded that hyperandrogenism is a major factor in hirsutism for 90% of cases, while in 10%, increased hair follicle sensitivity plays a significant role.