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Hirsutism
 
Hirsutism is the term used for excessive hair growth in women. It refers to a male pattern of hair, i.e. in the moustache and beard areas, or occurring more thickly than usual on the limbs. What is considered normal for a woman, and what is considered hirsute, depends on cultural factors and race. The problem in these women is that the hairs are more sensitive than normal to small amounts of hormone.

The hairs grow more quickly and thicker in response to it.

Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms and signs may include:
  • Excess hair growth (on the face, arms, legs, or chest)
  • Abnormal or absent menstrual periods
  • Decreased breast size
  • Male-pattern baldness (in a woman)
  • Deepened voice
  • Increased size of clitoris
  • High blood pressure
  • Enlarged adrenal glands
  • Enlarged ovaries

Diagnosis & Tests
An ultrasound examination of the ovaries may be necessary as one common cause of hirsutism is polycystic ovaries.

Treatment & Prevention
Treatment is directed at the underlying cause of the hirsutism and may include:
  • Medications such as:
    • Spironolactone
    • Finasteride (Proscar, Propecia)
    • Flutamide
    • Oral contraceptives
    • Glucophage (Metformin)
  • Local Hair Removal. Methods of removing hair include:
    • Shaving
    • Chemical treatment (depilatories)
    • Waxing
    • Electrolysis
    • Laser treatment
    • Bleaching

 
Hirsutism is benefited or hindered by:
 
Test for Hormones