Hyperandrogenism in Elite Athletes: The Problems in Regulating Female Athletes with High Testosterone Levels

Abstract

Controversy has long been present within the Olympic games with the most recent source of controversy concerning hyperandrogenic women, women with elevated testosterone levels, and their eligibility to compete within the female category. The most current hyperandrogenism regulations limit women's testosterone levels to 5 nmol/liter, and women with levels above this threshold must take measures to lower their levels if they wish to compete internationally in the female category. The scientific research behind testosterone's potential advantage in athletic competition is limited, and there is no scientific consensus that testosterone gives way to a significant advantage. As it has not been agreed upon within the scientific community that hyperandrogenic women have an edge over their competition, it is important to investigate the consequences the regulations have on the women they impact. Through analyzing the evolution of the hyperandrogenism regulations and the negative effects they can have both physically and mentally on women, it is clear that these regulations cause more harm than good in a playing field that has yet to be shown to be unequal.