Hirsutism and Masculinization

Hirsutism and Masculinization

Hirsutism is when a female has an excessive amount of hair in an area where a male would typically have hair growth, such as the face, chest, or back.

Masculinization is when a female’s body develops like a male’s body. This may include a deepening voice, loss of breast tissue, increased muscle mass, thinning scalp hair (balding), and clitoris growth.

Many things can cause these conditions. The most common cause is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Your health care provider may do blood tests and imaging studies to find the cause.

Follow these instructions at home:

  • Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.
  • Lose weight if you are overweight, and maintain a healthy weight.
  • Ask your health care provider for recommendations for hair removal. These may include temporary measures like shaving, creams, and waxing. More permanent ways to remove hair include electrolysis and laser treatments.
  • Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.

Contact a health care provider if:

  • Your symptoms suddenly get worse.
  • You develop acne.
  • You have irregular menstrual periods.
  • You stop having your period.
  • You feel a lump in your lower abdomen.
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