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Published on: 8/20/2026
How does hirsutism present in women with PCOS, and what are common treatments?
Hirsutism in women with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) causes excessive hair growth on the face, chest, back, or abdomen due to elevated androgen levels. Common treatments include lifestyle changes such as weight management, hair removal methods like shaving or laser therapy, and medications such as oral contraceptives, anti-androgens (spironolactone), or topical creams that slow hair growth.
If you're noticing unusual hair growth or other PCOS symptoms, understanding the root cause is the first step toward effective treatment. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to get personalized insights into what may be driving your symptoms and clear guidance on next steps—no appointment or sign-up required.
Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026
Quick answers
Frequently Asked Questions
4 answersThe most common questions women ask Ubie
- Most askedWhat strategies have been successful in curing hirsutism in women with PCOS?
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Concerned about your symptoms?
Explanation
Hirsutism in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often means they have more hair than usual on their face, chest, or back. This happens because of higher levels of male hormones called androgens.
How It Presents:
- More hair on the face, like the upper lip or chin.
- Hair on the chest, back, or belly.
- Sometimes, oily skin or acne can also be seen.
Common Treatments:
- Lifestyle Changes:
- Eating healthy and exercising can help manage weight, which may reduce symptoms.
- Medications:
- Birth control pills can help balance hormone levels.
- Anti-androgen medicines can reduce hair growth.
- Hair Removal Methods:
- Options like shaving, waxing, or laser treatments can help manage unwanted hair.
If you're experiencing symptoms like excess hair growth along with other concerns, you can use Ubie's free AI-powered symptom checker to better understand your symptoms and determine when to seek medical care. It's important to talk to a healthcare provider to find the best treatment plan for your individual needs.
(References)
Matheson E, & Bain J. (2019). Hirsutism in Women. American family physician, 31361105.
Spritzer PM, Marchesan LB, Santos BR, & Fighera TM. (2022). Hirsutism, Normal Androgens and Diagnosis of PCOS. Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland), 36010272.
Oliveira TF, & Comim FV. (2024). Understanding hirsutism in PCOS. Expert review of endocrinology & metabolism, 38305206.
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