From the Research
Higher testosterone levels in females are actually associated with increased melatonin levels, as evidenced by a study published in the Journal of human reproductive sciences 1. When considering the impact of testosterone on melatonin in females, it's essential to examine the relationship between these hormones in the context of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition characterized by hyperandrogenemia. The study found that melatonin levels were positively associated with increased testosterone levels in women with PCOS, suggesting a complex interplay between these hormones. Key findings from this study include:
- Melatonin levels were significantly higher in women with PCOS compared to healthy controls
- Total testosterone levels were also elevated in women with PCOS
- Melatonin levels were positively correlated with testosterone levels, indicating a potential link between these hormones. Other studies have investigated the effects of various treatments on testosterone and melatonin levels in women with PCOS, including melatonin supplementation 2, statins 3, and combined oral contraceptives 4. However, the most recent and highest-quality study on this topic, published in 2023, found that atorvastatin was the most effective treatment for reducing testosterone levels in women with PCOS 4. In terms of melatonin production, the relationship between testosterone and melatonin is bidirectional, with melatonin also influencing sex hormone production. For women experiencing sleep issues due to hormonal imbalances, addressing the underlying testosterone elevation through appropriate medical treatment may help restore normal melatonin production and improve sleep quality. This connection highlights the complex interplay between reproductive hormones and sleep regulation in the female endocrine system. Overall, the current evidence suggests that higher testosterone levels in females are associated with increased melatonin levels, and that treating underlying hormonal imbalances may help improve sleep quality and regulate melatonin production.