Sex hormone disorders occur when there is either an overproduction or underproduction of the hormones responsible for sexual characteristics and development.
In females, the main female hormone is estrogen which is primarily produced by the ovaries. Women also produce androgens (male-like hormones). Androgens are produced both by the ovaries and adrenal glands. Testosterone and DHEAS are two of the androgens women produce. When these hormones are not in balance women may experience symptoms including menstrual cycle irregularities, hirsutism (extra hair growth), acne and alopecia (hair loss).
In males, the main male hormone is testosterone. Testosterone is produced by the testicles. When males do not produce enough testosterone they may experience a decline in libido (sex drive), erectile dysfunction, loss of muscle and loss of body hair.
