Masculinisation (Noun)
Meaning
The abnormal development of male sexual characteristics in a female (usually as the result of hormone therapies or adrenal malfunction).
Classification
Nouns denoting natural processes.
Examples
- Hormone replacement therapy in female-to-male transgender individuals often aims to induce masculinisation.
- In individuals with congenital adrenal hyperplasia, exposure to excess androgens during fetal development can cause masculinisation of a genetically female individual.
- The abnormal growth of body hair and deepening of the voice in the patient were symptoms of masculinisation caused by an unidentified hormonal imbalance.
- Long-term treatment with androgenic anabolic steroids can lead to masculinisation in female athletes who use these substances to enhance performance.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome is often associated with mild masculinisation in females due to elevated androgen levels.