AIS (Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome) is a rare genetic disorder that affects a person's hormone levels. People with AIS have an XY chromosome pattern, but their bodies are unable to respond to androgens, the male hormones. As a result, people with AIS typically have physical characteristics that are more female than male.
Do People With AIS Have Estrogen?
Yes, people with AIS do have some levels of estrogen in their bodies. However, because their bodies are unable to respond to androgens, the male hormones, they do not produce the same amount of estrogen as other women.
Estrogen is a hormone that helps regulate the menstrual cycle and other female reproductive processes. It is also responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics, such as body shape and breast development. In people with AIS, the body does not respond to androgens, so the estrogen levels are not as high as in other women.
What Are the Effects of Low Estrogen Levels?
Low estrogen levels can have a variety of effects on people with AIS. Most notably, they may experience delayed or absent puberty, and may not develop the typical female secondary sexual characteristics, such as breast development. They may also experience infertility due to the lack of ovulation. In addition, people with AIS may be at an increased risk for certain health conditions, such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease, due to their low estrogen levels.
Can Low Estrogen Levels Be Treated?
Yes, low estrogen levels can be treated with hormone therapy. This therapy involves taking hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, to help the body produce more of the hormones it needs. Hormone therapy can help people with AIS to develop secondary sexual characteristics, such as breast development, and can also help to regulate the menstrual cycle and ovulation. In addition, hormone therapy may help to reduce the risk of certain health conditions, such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.