A new study reveals that male sex hormones, such as testosterone, play a crucial role in female fertility—a finding that may come as a surprise to many. While androgens are best known for their roles in male reproduction and prostate cancer, researchers now say these hormones also help regulate ovarian function in females.
Published in Molecular Endocrinology, the study shows that male hormones are essential for normal follicle growth and egg development in the ovaries. Without proper androgen activity, the follicles—which house developing eggs—may stop growing or die off prematurely, leading to fertility issues.
“People often overlook how important male hormones are in the female body,” said Dr. Stephen Hammes, lead author and professor of endocrinology at the University of Rochester Medical Center. Our findings offer a new path for understanding and possibly treating female infertility by focusing on androgen levels in the ovaries.
The research is especially relevant to women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), the most common cause of infertility. PCOS affects 5% to 10% of women of childbearing age and is linked to elevated androgen levels. The condition interferes with normal ovulation, making it difficult for women to get pregnant.
By studying female mice, the researchers found that removing androgen receptors from a specific type of ovarian cell—called granulosa cells—caused fertility issues. These mice experienced premature ovarian failure, irregular ovulation cycles, and fewer viable eggs. Their litter sizes were also smaller compared to normal mice.
“We used to think the problem was in the brain, in areas like the hypothalamus or pituitary,” said Dr. Aritro Sen, co-author of the study. “But we now see that it’s the ovarian cells, specifically the granulosa cells, where androgen signaling is most critical.”
Previous studies also showed that completely removing androgen receptors in female mice leads to poor ovarian function. The new research narrows this effect to just the granulosa cells, indicating that androgens are vital for supporting the later stages of follicle development.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 6.1 million women in the U.S. struggle with infertility. Understanding the role of male hormones in female fertility could help develop new treatments, particularly for those affected by PCOS.
“This is just the beginning,” said Hammes. “By targeting how androgens function in the ovary, we may find better ways to improve fertility in women.”
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