Question 1

What is Hirsutism?

Accepted Answer

Hirsutism is excessive male-pattern hair growth in women, typically appearing on the face, chest, and back. It is caused by elevated levels of androgens, particularly testosterone, in the female body. The Testosterone, Free, Bioavailable and Total, LC/MS/MS test is the most important test for diagnosing hirsutism because it measures all forms of testosterone that drive unwanted hair growth.

Question 2

What causes hirsutism?

Accepted Answer

Hirsutism is caused by elevated levels of androgens, particularly testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), in women. The most common underlying cause is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which affects up to 70% of women with hirsutism. Other causes include adrenal gland disorders like congenital adrenal hyperplasia, ovarian tumors, Cushing syndrome, and certain medications such as anabolic steroids or danazol. In some cases, the cause remains unknown, a condition called idiopathic hirsutism.

Question 3

What is the best test for hirsutism?

Accepted Answer

The Testosterone, Free, Bioavailable and Total, LC/MS/MS is the most important test for hirsutism because it measures all three forms of testosterone in your blood with exceptional accuracy. Elevated bioavailable testosterone is the primary hormone responsible for unwanted male-pattern hair growth in women. This comprehensive test helps identify whether your hirsutism is caused by PCOS, adrenal disorders, or other hormonal imbalances. Your doctor may also order DHEA-S and 17-hydroxyprogesterone tests to rule out adrenal gland problems, along with luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to assess for PCOS.

Question 4

When should I get tested for hirsutism?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you notice dark, coarse hair growing in male-pattern areas like your face, chest, back, or abdomen. Testing is especially important if the hair growth started suddenly, is rapidly worsening, or is accompanied by irregular periods, acne, deepening voice, or male-pattern baldness. Women with a family history of PCOS or adrenal disorders should get tested early. If you are struggling with fertility or have unexplained weight gain along with excess hair growth, hormone testing can identify treatable underlying causes.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of hirsutism?

Accepted Answer

Hirsutism symptoms include excessive dark, coarse hair on the face (especially upper lip, chin, and sideburns), chest, back, abdomen, and inner thighs. You might also notice hair growth on your shoulders, buttocks, or around the nipples. Many women experience additional signs of high androgen levels including acne, oily skin, thinning scalp hair or male-pattern baldness, deepening voice, increased muscle mass, and enlarged clitoris. If caused by PCOS, you may also have irregular or absent periods, weight gain, and dark skin patches in body folds.

Question 6

Who is at risk for hirsutism?

Accepted Answer

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have the highest risk, as it causes 70-80% of hirsutism cases. You are also at increased risk if you have a family history of hirsutism or PCOS, are of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, or South Asian descent, are overweight or obese, or have insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes. Women taking testosterone supplements, anabolic steroids, or certain medications like danazol or minoxidil have elevated risk. Those with adrenal gland disorders, ovarian or adrenal tumors, or Cushing syndrome are also susceptible.

Question 7

What happens if hirsutism is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated hirsutism can lead to significant emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life due to unwanted appearance changes. If caused by PCOS, leaving it untreated increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, endometrial cancer, and infertility. The underlying hormonal imbalances may worsen over time, making treatment more difficult. Women with untreated adrenal disorders risk serious complications including salt-wasting crises. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent these complications while effectively managing hair growth.

Question 8

Can hirsutism be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, blood tests are essential for diagnosing the underlying cause of hirsutism. While your doctor diagnoses hirsutism by examining your hair growth pattern, blood tests identify what is causing the excess androgens. The Testosterone, Free, Bioavailable and Total, LC/MS/MS test measures all forms of testosterone to pinpoint hormonal imbalances. Additional blood tests like DHEA-S, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, LH, FSH, and prolactin help distinguish between PCOS, adrenal disorders, and other causes. Blood glucose and insulin tests may also be ordered since many women with hirsutism have insulin resistance.

Question 9

How is hirsutism treated?

Accepted Answer

Hirsutism treatment focuses on lowering androgen levels and managing hair growth. Birth control pills containing estrogen and progestin are the most common first-line treatment, often combined with anti-androgen medications like spironolactone or finasteride. If you have PCOS with insulin resistance, metformin may help reduce testosterone levels. Topical eflornithine cream can slow facial hair growth. Hair removal methods like laser therapy, electrolysis, shaving, waxing, or depilatory creams provide cosmetic improvement. Weight loss of just 5-10% can significantly reduce symptoms in overweight women. Treatment typically takes 6-12 months to show full effects.

Question 10

How can I prevent hirsutism?

Accepted Answer

You cannot prevent hirsutism caused by genetic conditions like PCOS or adrenal disorders, but you can reduce its severity. Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced diet and regular exercise helps lower insulin and androgen levels. Avoiding unnecessary testosterone supplements or anabolic steroids prevents drug-induced hirsutism. If you have PCOS or diabetes risk factors, early screening and treatment can minimize hormonal imbalances before severe hirsutism develops. Managing insulin resistance through low-glycemic diets and exercise may prevent worsening symptoms. Regular medical follow-up ensures any hormonal imbalances are caught and treated early.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with hirsutism?

Accepted Answer

Several natural approaches may help manage hirsutism alongside medical treatment. Spearmint tea consumed twice daily has shown promise in reducing androgen levels in small studies. Inositol supplements, particularly myo-inositol and d-chiro-inositol, can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce testosterone in women with PCOS. Saw palmetto may block DHT, though evidence is limited. A low-glycemic diet with plenty of fiber, lean protein, and healthy fats helps regulate insulin and androgens. Regular exercise, especially strength training and cardio, improves insulin sensitivity. Stress reduction through yoga or meditation may help balance hormones. Always discuss supplements with your doctor as they can interact with medications.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
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            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Hirsutism Blood Test

What is Hirsutism?

What causes hirsutism?

What is the best test for hirsutism?

When should I get tested for hirsutism?

References

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