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Hirsutism is the term used for increased hair growth in women. Hirsutism refers to excess hair, such as on the upper lip, face, chin, back and abdomen. There may be hairs on the chest or an extension of pubic hair on to the abdomen and thighs.
Hirsutism is very common and can be hereditary. Often, excessive hair growth occurs because of a hormone imbalance or because a woman's hairs are more sensitive than normal to small amounts of hormones. The hairs grow more quickly and thicker in response to it.
Many women with hirsutism have normal levels of hormones, but in some women, hirsutism is caused by an increased amount of hormone called testosterone. Excessive hair growth can be caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a mild hormone imbalance that usually begins during the teenage years and gets more severe with age. It also causes irregular periods and acne.
Children's Hospital Boston's Reproductive Endocrine Practice within the Adolescent/Young Adult Medical Practice provides evaluation and treatment of adolescents and young adults with excessive hair growth. Blood tests, and sometimes an ultrasound, may be arranged to see if the hirsutism is caused by excessive hormone levels or PCOS.
For more information go to the Center for Young Women's Health website.
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