Renowned actress Ushna Shah has shared her struggle with high testosterone levels, attributing it to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
In a series of Instagram posts and tweets, Shah revealed that she, along with one in five women in Pakistan, grapples with this condition, which results in elevated levels of the male sex hormone testosterone.
Ushna’s candid disclosure sheds light on the broader issue of PCOS, a common yet often misunderstood medical condition.
The actress emphasised that many women in Pakistan, including her, face challenges due to PCOS, which is marked by hormonal imbalances leading to symptoms such as excessive body hair, a condition known medically as hirsutism.
Addressing her followers, Ushna Shah noted that high testosterone levels have given her stronger muscles and more energy, but clarified that these characteristics do not undermine her femininity.
She stressed that despite these hormonal fluctuations, she remains entirely female and maintains her feminine qualities. Shah’s remarks come in response to outdated perceptions that associate high testosterone levels with masculinity or third gender.
Shah’s advocacy for awareness is timely, given recent controversies, such as the case of Algerian athlete Imane Khelif. Khalif was controversially disqualified from the Paris Olympics due to high testosterone levels, leading to a debate over her gender identity.
Despite the International Olympic Committee’s confirmation of Khalif's female gender based on her identification documents, the incident has highlighted the need for greater understanding and sensitivity regarding hormonal conditions.
