Androgen, or androgenic hormones, is normally produced in both men and women though their presence is usually much higher in men. Increased levels of androgen may lead to fertility problems in both men and women.

Excess androgens in a woman can lead to the formation of male secondary sex characteristics (for example, excess hair) and prevent ovulation (anovulation) by suppressing two hormones, LH and FSH, both of which are necessary for ovulation. Elevated levels of androgens are also often found in women with PCOS, polycystic ovarian syndrome.