Hirsutism

/HUR-soot-iz-um/

Also known as: Excess hair growth

Excess coarse, dark hair growth in women in a male-like pattern — such as on the face, chest, or back — usually driven by higher androgens. It's a common and treatable feature of PCOS.

Hirsutism is excess growth of coarse, dark hair in women in areas where men typically grow hair — the face (upper lip, chin), chest, abdomen, or back. It is usually driven by higher androgens.

Hirsutism is one of the most common and visible features of PCOS. It is treatable — through hair-removal methods and, in some cases, medication a clinician can discuss. See PCOS symptoms and PCOS treatment.

Hirsutism

Related terms