What should you know about cause of hirsutism?

Hirsutism describes coarse or dark hair growth in areas where hair is more typical of a male pattern, such as the face, chest, abdomen, or back. Androgens are hormones that can make certain follicles produce thicker, more pigmented hair. Some people have ordinary hormone levels but follicles that respond more strongly to them.

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common hormonal association, especially when new hair growth occurs with irregular periods, acne, or difficulty with ovulation. Other ovarian or adrenal conditions can alter androgen production and need medical assessment. Certain medicines may also affect hair growth. In some people, no clear cause is found, and the pattern may run in the family.

Arrange an appointment if the growth is new, increasing, or troubling you. A clinician may ask about periods, fertility, acne, scalp hair thinning, medicines, and family history, then examine the hair pattern and signs of hormone activity. Blood tests or other checks may be suggested when the history or examination points to a hormonal cause.

Treatment depends on the cause, your health, and whether pregnancy is possible. Options may include treating an underlying hormonal condition, prescription anti-androgen therapy such as spironolactone, and hair-removal methods. [Spironolactone Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/spironolactone-therapy/) requires clinician guidance because it is not suitable for everyone. [Laser Hair Removal](/treatments/laser-and-energy/laser-hair-removal/) and [Electrolysis Hair Removal](/treatments/laser-and-energy/electrolysis-hair-removal/) address unwanted hair itself rather than its underlying trigger.

Seek prompt medical assessment if hair growth becomes rapidly heavier or is accompanied by a deepening voice, marked muscle changes, severe acne, scalp hair loss, or enlargement of the clitoris. These changes can signal a stronger change in androgen activity. Also seek care for new hair growth with very irregular or absent periods, particularly if pregnancy is a goal.

You could ask: Which features suggest a hormonal cause? Do I need hormone testing? Could any of my medicines contribute? Which treatment fits my health and pregnancy plans? What should I expect from hair-removal treatment?