Hirsutism

Hirsutism is a common condition that causes excessive hair growth. It primarily affects women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB).

You may develop coarse, dark hair growth on your upper lip, chin, chest, abdomen or back instead of the fine hair sometimes referred to as “peach fuzz” that commonly grows in those areas. Hirsutism can cause distress, but it’s treatable.

Who does hirsutism affect?

Hirsutism mainly affects women and people AFAB. It can affect men and people assigned male at birth (AMAB), but it’s difficult to tell the difference between hirsutism and typical thick, dark, long hair growth (terminal hair).

You’re more likely to have hirsutism if you have a family history of conditions that cause it, especially polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Obesity can also increase your chances of having hirsutism.

You’re also more likely to have hirsutism if you’re Mediterranean, Hispanic, South Asian or Middle Eastern.

Hirsutism rarely affects children. If it does, it’s typically a sign of early puberty.

How common is hirsutism?

Hirsutism affects 5% to 10% of women and people AFAB who are around child-bearing age. It affects over 40% of women and AFAB at some point during their lives.

How does hirsutism affect my body?

Hirsutism doesn’t affect your physical health. However, it can affect you psychosocially (how society and social groups affect your thoughts and emotions) and psychologically (how you think about yourself and your behavior). You may experience emotional stress, anxiety and depression.