Virilization: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Seek urgent or emergency care for sudden severe pelvic or abdominal pain, especially with vomiting, fainting, weakness, or heavy bleeding.

   These symptoms can indicate an acute pelvic or abdominal problem rather than virilization itself.

   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Seek prompt medical assessment, ideally within days, if your voice is deepening, the clitoris is enlarging, muscle changes are pronounced, or several features are progressing quickly.

   Rapid changes require investigation even if you otherwise feel well.

   Contact your maternity care team promptly if rapid virilization develops during pregnancy.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Book a medical appointment if virilizing changes are new, worsening, or affecting your periods.

   A child with signs of early androgen effects should also be assessed.

   Gradual hair growth or acne without other symptoms is usually suitable for a routine appointment.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Virilization. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.