The development of masculine physical characteristics in a woman as a result of androgen exposure: deepening of the voice, facial and body hair, clitoral enlargement, breast tissue reduction and menstrual disruption.
Voice deepening and clitoral enlargement are considered irreversible once established. Hair growth partly persists. Menstrual changes, acne and mood effects usually reverse after stopping. Because the earliest signs are subtle and appear before blood tests change, women using androgens are advised to monitor voice, hair and cycle closely and to have a physician they can discuss these with openly.