What is Hirsutism?
Hirsutism is defined as excessive and unwanted hair in male-like formulations on the face and body (neck, chest, and lower abdomen). It affects an estimated 5% to 15% of women, depending on the characteristics. At least 5% of women of reproductive age suffer from this disease.
This common problem causes significant social and psychological distress, mainly in women, but modern diagnoses and treatments can certainly address the problem. The best management of unwanted hair growth often requires a multidisciplinary approach provided by qualified physicians, endocrinologists, and aestheticians. IVF center in Banjara Hills has professional endocrinologists who help with hormone disorders that can reduce Hirsutism.
What are the Causes of Hirsutism?
Before exploring the possible causes of Hirsutism, it is important to remember that it is a symptom of hyperandrogenism.
Causes of increased androgen levels in Hirsutism include:
Idiopathic Causes
Hirsutism occurs in the body where circulatory levels of androgens and ovulation are normal. The idiopathic cause triggers Hirsutism in 6% to 17% of Hershut women.
Tumours
Adrenal glands and androgen-secreting tumours in the ovaries can cause Hirsutism, but this rarely happens.
Cushing syndrome
As a cause of Hirsutism, Cushing syndrome is evaluated based on the presence of dexamethasone that fails to suppress both androgens and cortisol. This happens when the body is exposed to high levels of cortisol.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS combines polycystic ovaries and other characteristic symptoms such as Hirsutism, amenorrhea or dysfunctional uterine bleeding, infertility, obesity, irregular menstruation, and acne.
PCOS is a widespread disorder ranging from women who have regular cycles to those who are anovulatory.
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)
CAH is a complication of genetic disorders of adrenal steroidogenesis. In this case, decreased production of cortisol leads to higher production of androgenic steroids. Common symptoms include acne, impaired menstrual function, and hirsutism in adolescence or adulthood.
What are the Symptoms of Hirsutism?
Apart from heavy growth of hair on the face and other body areas, there are many other symptoms caused by hirsutism, such as:
- Deepening voice
- Balding
- Enlargement of the clitoris
- Acne
- Decreased breast size
- Increased muscle mass
What are the Treatment Options for Hirsutism?
Estrogen and progesterone medications
Estrogen enables the liver to make a protein that binds testosterone, thereby reducing the amount of testosterone exposed to the hair follicle.
Weight loss
Losing weight will often result in a reduction of insulin, which, as summarized above, will lower the ovarian production of testosterone, and reduce hair growth over time.
Anti-androgen medication
Doctors may prescribe medications that block the body’s androgen receptors.
Topical treatment
Prescription creams that slow hair growth are recommended by doctors.
Permanent hair removal procedures
With new hair removal treatments coming into the market, it has become easier for women to remove their hair permanently. Nowadays, most women opt for permanent hair removal procedures such as electrolysis or laser hair removal.
Simple At-home Hair Removal Procedures
Many women adapt to simple hair removal procedures like waxing, bleaching, plucking, or shaving.
Conclusion:
Excess facial or body hair is often a symptom of an underlying medical concern. Visit Oasis fertility banjara hills for assessment and diagnosis if you experience severe or rapid hair growth on your face or body over a few months or signs of virilization.