The symptoms and signs of hirsutism depend on the underlying cause, but may include: a sudden change in hair colour, rate of growth, thickness or distribution. excessive body hair in typically 'male' areas of the body such as the face, back, abdomen, inner thighs and buttocks.

When does hirsutism develop?

The age of onset of hirsutism depends on the etiology. Most forms of nonneoplastic hirsutism become evident around puberty. This includes polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), CAH, and idiopathic hirsutism.

Do I have hirsutism or am I just hairy?

The main difference between typical hair on a woman's body and face (often called “peach fuzz”) and hair caused by hirsutism is the texture. Excessive or unwanted hair that grows on a woman's face, arms, back, or chest is usually coarse and dark. The growth pattern of hirsutism in women is associated with virilization.