Excessive body hair

The normal amount of body hair varies widely among women. Usually, a woman will only grow fine hair (peach fuzz) on her lips, chin, chest, abdomen, or back. When women grow coarse, dark hairs in these areas, the condition is called hirsutism. This pattern of hair growth is more typical of men. All women normally produce low levels of male hormones (androgens). Unwanted hair growth (hirsutism) in women may occur when the body makes too much male hormone. In most cases, the exact cause is never identified. It tends to run in families. In general, hirsutism is a harmless condition. But many women find it bothersome, or even embarrassing. Call your doctor if: * The hair grows rapidly. * The hair growth is associated with male features such as acne, deepening voice, increased muscle mass, and decreased breast size. * You are concerned that medication may be worsening unwanted hair growth.