Hirsutism (excessive hairiness)

Hirsutism in women involves excessive hairiness, which shows a typically male pattern on the body, e.g. on the upper lip, chin, chest, back, limbs or stomach.

Hirsutism is caused by an excess of androgens or by hypersensitivity to these hormones. It affects between 5 and 10% of women of childbearing age. It may be accompanied by other problems such as acne or hair loss.

The most frequent cause (70-80%) of hirsutism is polycystic ovary syndrome. It is very important to be able to exclude other causes, which are much rarer but more serious, such as ovarian or adrenal tumours.

The treatment depends on the cause. An in-depth consultation ensures you are prescribed the best treatment.