Hirsutism

Overview

Hirsutism (HUR-soot-iz-um) is a condition in women that results in excessive growth of dark or coarse hair in a male-like pattern — face, chest and back.

Hirsutism

Hirsutism

Hirsutism is excess hair most often noticeable around the mouth and chin.

With hirsutism, extra hair growth often arises from excess male hormones (androgens), primarily testosterone.

Self-care methods and effective treatment options are available for women who wish to treat hirsutism.


Symptoms

Hirsutism is stiff or dark body hair, appearing on the body where women don’t commonly have hair — primarily the face, chest, lower abdomen, inner thighs and back. People have widely varying opinions on what’s considered excessive.

When high androgen levels cause hirsutism, other signs might develop over time, a process called virilization. Signs of virilization might include:

  • Deepening voice
  • Balding
  • Acne
  • Decreased breast size
  • Increased muscle mass
  • Enlargement of the clitoris

When to see a doctor

If you think you have too much coarse hair on your face or body, talk with your doctor about treatment options.

Excess facial or body hair is often a symptom of an underlying medical problem. See your doctor for assessment if over a few months you experience severe or rapid hair growth on your face or body or signs of virilization. You may be referred to a doctor who specializes in hormone disorders (endocrinologist) or skin problems (dermatologist).

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