What hormonal imbalance is associated with excessive hair growth in women?

Excessive hair growth in women, often referred to as hirsutism, is primarily linked to elevated levels of androgens. Androgens are a group of hormones that include testosterone and are typically present in both men and women, although in different concentrations. When there is an excess of androgens in women, it can lead to symptoms such as increased body and facial hair growth, as well as other signs of male-pattern hair distribution.

High levels of androgens can be caused by various conditions, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), adrenal gland disorders, or certain tumors. The presence of elevated androgens disrupts the normal balance of hormones in the body and accelerates hair growth in areas where women typically have less hair.

The other choices do not directly correlate with the condition of excessive hair growth in women. Low estrogen or high progesterone does not lead to increased hair growth and can even have different effects on body hair distribution. Normal cortisol levels also do not contribute to hirsutism; rather, it is the elevated androgen levels that specifically trigger this condition.