Hirsutism can occur for a number of reasons:

  • Excess production of male-type hormones (androgen)
  • Increased sensitivity of the hair follicles to androgen stimulation
  • Taking certain drugs, steroids and androgens (for body building)
  • Contraceptive pill
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Hereditary factors
  • Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome