Hirsutism & Androgen Excess: Diagnosis & Hormonal Management
A clear guide to hirsutism and androgen excess, excess male-pattern hair growth in women caused by elevated androgen hormone levels.
Treatment usually begins with
Hormone & Symptom Review
Androgen Testing
Specialist Consultation
Targeted Treatment
Evaluation identifies the underlying cause of excess androgen production, guiding hormonal treatment tailored to the specific cause.
You may need this evaluated if...
Evaluation for hirsutism or androgen excess is recommended when:
- Excess hair growth on the face, chest or back in a male-pattern distribution
- Irregular menstrual periods alongside excess hair growth
- Acne or oily skin developing alongside these changes
- Rapidly worsening symptoms over a short period
Once the underlying hormonal cause is identified, hirsutism and androgen excess respond well to targeted treatment.
What is Hirsutism & Androgen Excess?
Hirsutism is excess male-pattern hair growth in women, most often caused by elevated androgen (male hormone) levels, commonly linked to PCOS but sometimes to other adrenal or ovarian conditions requiring specific evaluation.
PCOS Is the Most Common Cause
The majority of hirsutism cases are linked to polycystic ovary syndrome.
Other Causes Need to Be Ruled Out
Adrenal and, rarely, ovarian conditions can also cause androgen excess and are checked for.
Rate of Onset Is a Key Clue
Rapidly worsening symptoms warrant more urgent evaluation for a less common underlying cause.
Treatment Addresses Both Cause and Symptoms
Management combines treating the hormonal cause with options to manage hair growth itself.
Common Symptoms
- Excess hair growth on the face, chest, abdomen or back
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Acne or oily skin
- Deepening of the voice or increased muscle mass in more severe cases
What Increases Your Risk
A combination of genetic, hormonal and lifestyle factors can increase the likelihood of this condition.
How It Is Diagnosed
A structured assessment confirms the diagnosis and helps guide the right treatment plan.
Androgen Hormone Testing
Measures testosterone and related hormone levels.
Pelvic Ultrasound
Assesses the ovaries for features associated with PCOS.
Adrenal Hormone Testing
Rules out an adrenal cause when clinically suspected.
Symptom Onset & Progression Review
Rapid onset raises priority for more detailed evaluation.
Treatment Approaches
Medical & Hormonal Management
- Treatment of the underlying hormonal cause, such as PCOS management
- Medication to reduce androgen effects on hair growth
- Cosmetic hair removal options alongside medical treatment
- Regular monitoring of hormone levels and symptom response
Advanced & Procedural Care
Surgical evaluation is considered only in the rare cases where an androgen-producing tumour of the ovary or adrenal gland is identified.
Treatment decisions are based on hormone levels, imaging and your overall health, not a single test.
Know When to Act
Recognising these signs early and acting promptly helps protect your long-term hormonal and metabolic health.
Book an Assessment
Schedule a consultation for a routine evaluation or ongoing concern.
- Gradual, mild excess hair growth, seeking hormonal evaluation
Seek Urgent Care
Reach out for emergency care immediately if you notice any of the following.
- Rapidly worsening symptoms with voice change or significant muscle gain over weeks
Not Sure What You Need?
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