What is hirsutism?
Hirsutism or frazonism is the excessive hairiness of women in those parts of the body where terminal hair does not normally occur or is minimal eg beard or chest hair. It refers to a male pattern of body hair and is therefore primarily of cosmetic or psychological concern. Hirsutism is a symptom rather than a disease and may be a sign of a more serious medical condition, especially if it develops well after puberty.
How common is it and who does it affect?
Hirsutism is a type of hypertrychosis (abnormal amount of hair growth) exclusive to women and children, resulting from an excess of androgen (male hormone) sensitive hair growth.
Hirsutism affects about 10% of women. The excess hair that grows is thicker, darker and coarser than the fine hair (vellus hair) that covers most of your skin. If you have hirsutism, you may also have acne or seborrhoea, which is a condition where your skin produces too much sebum (a natural oil produced by the skin).
Hirsutism usually starts around puberty and may get worse as you mature. After the menopause, you may find that you have more hair growth on your face and body. If you are of Mediterranean or Indian descent, you may naturally have more hair on your body than others. This doesn't mean however, that you have hirsutism.
What are the causes of hirsutism?
Hirsutism can be caused by either an increased level of androgens or an oversensitivity of hair follicles to androgens. Male hormones such as testosterone stimulate hair growth, increase size and intensify the growth and pigmentation of hair.
Hirsutism can be a symptom of another medical condition such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Acromegaly or as a side effect of some medications and steroids. The condition can also be hereditary.
What are the symptoms?
Hirsutism is both congenital (from birth) and acquired. It is linked to excessive male hormones in women, thus symptoms may include:
- acne;
- deepening of the voice;
- irregular menstrual periods;
- the formation of a more muscular or masculine body shape;
- excessive hair growth on face, chest, breasts, abdomen, thighs, buttocks and back
What treatments are available?
Hirsutism can be upsetting, embarrassing and affect a persons' confidence and self-esteem. It is important to firstly get a diagnosis from your GP especially if your symptoms get much worse or develop suddently. If your condition is mild you may not have an underlying medical condition that requires treatment, however your GP can determine this with either blood tests or referral to a Specialist.
Your GP or Specialist may prescribe a type of contraceptive pill or anti-androgen medication. Following a healthy, balanced diet and taking regular exercise can help with weight issues and electrolysis and laser hair removal can help manage or remove your unwanted hair.
