Understanding And Coping With Hirsutism (PCOS)

• Irregular Periods: Infrequent, prolonged, or absent menstrual cycles.
• Weight Gain: Difficulty losing weight or unexplained weight gain.
• Acne: Persistent acne, especially on the face, chest, and upper back.
• Thinning Hair: Hair loss or thinning on the scalp.
• Hirsutism: Excessive hair growth on the face, chest, back, and other areas.

What is Hirsutism?

Hirsutism is a condition characterized by the excessive growth of dark, coarse hair in areas where women typically have little or no hair. This condition is primarily driven by elevated androgen levels, particularly testosterone, which are common in women with PCOS.

The Link Between PCOS and Hirsutism

The connection between PCOS and hirsutism lies in the hormonal imbalances that are central to the syndrome. Women with PCOS often produce higher levels of androgens, which can trigger the growth of unwanted hair. This hair growth tends to occur in a male pattern, meaning it affects areas such as the upper lip, chin, chest, and back.

Not all women with PCOS will experience hirsutism, but those who do often find it to be one of the most challenging aspects of the condition, affecting self-esteem and quality of life.

Managing Hirsutism: Treatment Options

While hirsutism can be distressing, there are several treatment options available to help manage and reduce excessive hair growth:

1. Medications

• Oral Contraceptives: Birth control pills can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels, which in turn can lessen hair growth.
• Anti-Androgen Medications: Drugs like spironolactone can block the effects of androgens on hair follicles, slowing hair growth and reducing its thickness.
• Insulin-Sensitizing Agents: Metformin, often prescribed to manage insulin resistance in PCOS, can also help reduce androgen levels.

• Shaving: A quick and easy method, though it requires frequent upkeep and can sometimes cause irritation.
• Waxing: Provides longer-lasting results than shaving but can be painful and may cause skin irritation.
• Depilatory Creams: These creams dissolve hair at the skin’s surface but may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
• Laser Hair Removal: A more permanent solution that targets hair follicles with laser light to reduce hair growth. Multiple sessions are usually required for the best results.
• Electrolysis: A permanent hair removal technique that involves inserting a tiny needle into each hair follicle and applying an electric current to destroy it. It’s effective but can be time-consuming and costly.

• Weight Management: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce insulin resistance and lower androgen levels, which may, in turn, reduce hirsutism.
• Dietary Changes: A diet low in refined carbohydrates and high in whole foods can support hormonal balance and insulin sensitivity.
• Regular Exercise: Physical activity can improve insulin sensitivity, help with weight management, and potentially reduce the severity of hirsutism.