What is clitoral hypertrophy?

Generally, clitoral hypertrophy may be caused by congenital individual differences, long-term local stimulation, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), or ovarian androgen-secreting tumors. Patients should promptly visit a正规 hospital to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Congenital Individual Differences

Elevated sensitivity of embryonic tissue to androgens can lead to slightly increased development of the clitoral corpus cavernosum. This condition is asymptomatic and considered a normal anatomical variation. Daily cleaning with warm water, wearing cotton breathable underwear, and avoiding frequent friction or irritation are sufficient.

2. Long-Term Local Stimulation

Repeated friction from cycling, masturbation, or tight clothing may cause compensatory thickening of the corpus cavernosum, resulting in slight protrusion. Reduce continuous cycling time, switch to loose-fitting clothing, keep legs naturally apart during sleep, and apply cold compresses locally to relieve congestion.

3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Increased ovarian secretion of androgens stimulates clitoral corpus cavernosum hyperplasia, often accompanied by oligomenorrhea, acne, and other symptoms. Treatment may include medications such as ethinylestradiol cyproterone tablets, letrozole tablets, or metformin hydrochloride sustained-release tablets under medical guidance, along with a low-sugar diet and moderate exercise like brisk walking or swimming three times per week.

4. Congenital Adrenal Cortical Hyperplasia (CAH)

21-hydroxylase deficiency leads to decreased cortisol and elevated androgen levels, causing clitoral enlargement with hyperpigmentation. Lifelong glucocorticoid replacement therapy—such as hydrocortisone tablets, prednisolone tablets, or fludrocortisone tablets—is required under medical supervision, with regular monitoring of electrolytes. For significant clitoromegaly, surgical options include clitoral reduction and vaginal reconstruction.

5. Ovarian Androgen-Secreting Tumor

Tumors such as Leydig cell tumors or Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors continuously secrete androgens, leading to rapid clitoral enlargement within a short period, often associated with voice deepening and hair loss. Once diagnosed, affected adnexa should be surgically removed as early as possible. For patients wishing to preserve fertility, laparoscopic ovarian tumor excision may be an option. Postoperative chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide injection, etoposide injection, and cisplatin injection in sequential regimens may be necessary depending on pathology and staging.

Avoid exogenous androgen-containing supplements in daily life. Monitor changes in clitoral dimensions regularly; seek immediate medical review if rapid growth or nodules appear.