What is Hirsutism? Hirsutism in Women Hirsutism in women is defined as excessive coarse hair appearing in a male-type pattern. It represents exposure of hair follicles to high levels of the male hormone androgen in the blood and/or the hair follicle itself. Consequently, one-half of women with mild hirsutism have elevated levels of circulating androgens, as do most women with more severe hirsutism, although the severity of hirsutism is not necessarily proportion to the circulating androgen level. It is important to recognize that hirsutism can be an emotional burden that can harm one’s self-esteem and body image. Many women with hirsutism report feeling unfeminine and embarrassed due to unwanted hair. Many of these women also hide their hair growth and avoid physical closeness with others to conceal it. Because hair removal can be time-consuming, expensive, and frustrating, many hirsute women feel unable to manage their hair removal effectively, and some experience depression. Nevertheless, significant variability exists in how women view their hirsutism, ranging from not bothersome to humiliating. How is Hirsutism Diagnosed? Hirsutism Diagnosis The first step in assessing hirsutism is to have a complete history and physical examination performed by a trained health care provider. A careful history and physical examination can assess the degree of hirsutism, acne or hair loss, and other problems that are important in directing diagnostic testing and management. An equally important step is assessing the emotional impact of hirsutism on the individual so that a personalized management plan can be developed to target the physical, medical and psychological burdens of unwanted hair. Understanding how a woman feels about her body image and improving this perception are essential components of any management plan. Blood tests may be recommended to determine whether the body is producing excess amounts of androgen. These blood tests can be combined with physical examination to determine whether a common condition known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) exists. At the same time, other causes for hirsutism, including hormone abnormalities of the pituitary, thyroid and adrenal as well as rare tumors, can be excluded. Best Fertility Care Centre, Maternal & Child Health Care Centre , Advanced Fertilty Care Centre , Ashwini Hospital & Fertility Centre Moondrumavadi Madurai -07
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