Hirsutism

What is Hirsutism?

Hirsutism refers to the condition in which unwanted, male-pattern hair grow on female’s body parts like face, chin, chest and back. Normally, women have fine, pale, faintly visible hair on her face & rest of body but in Hirsutism, there is excessive growth of dark, coarse hair on most of body areas.

What are the causes of Hirsutism?

Various causes responsible for Hirsutism are:

• Genes
• Hormonal imbalance
• Medication
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Cushing’s syndrome
• Congenital adrenal hyperplasia
• Tumor

What are the symptoms of Hirsutism?

The most common symptoms of Hirsutism in females is the growth of dark, coarse hair just like male-pattern on various parts of body. Other symptoms may include:

• Deeper voice
• Acne
• Baldness
• Reduced breast size
• Increased muscle mass
• Enlarged clitoris

How can Hirsutism be treated?

The treatment for Hirsutism requires treating the underlying cause. It may also include:

• Medications (Oral contraceptives, anti-androgens, topical cream)
• Procedures to remove unwanted hair permanently (Electrolysis, Laser therapy)