Unwanted hair growth in women- Gynaecologist discussed

  

Hirsutism:

At times, we come across women who have facial hair and we assume that they don’t clean or shave it properly. But it may not always be the case. This abnormal hair growth is a condition that needs proper treatment, says a gynaecologist based inKolkata. The medical term for extra hair growth in women is hirsutism. The excess hair grows on the face like that of a man. This condition is the result of hormonal imbalance. The excess hair may grow on one’s face, back, or chest.

Cause:

Androgens:

A group of hormones that contribute to the development of male traits is called androgens. Thick facial hair is one of the most common male traits. A man’s body has high levels of androgens. A woman’s body also contains these hormones but the levels are lesser than those found in a man’s body. These hormones are essential for both men and women.

Testosterone:

Testosterone is one of the most known androgens. It helps the body maintain bone and tissue mass. One may feel lethargic or sluggish if his/her body does not produce sufficient testosterone needed for the body. Whereas, too much production of testosterone may result in various health complications in one’s body.

The complications may include:

• Excess body hair
• Excess facial hair
• Hair loss
• Acne
• Irregular periods

Cortisol:

Many important physical procedures are controlled by a hormone called Cortisol. The fight-or-flight response appears in one’s body when someone is either in crisis or danger. The hormone cortisol has a major role to play in producing this response. Cortisol also helps regulate blood pressure, inflammation, and the sleep/wake cycle. All these may impact one’s appetite and body weight.

Although cortisol is an essential hormone, too much production of the same may result into:

• Excess hair growth
• Mood swings
• Weight gain
• Problem in memorizing
• Diabetes
• Heart problem

Cortisol levels depend on stress, certain medication, and genetic conditions, as suggested by a gynaecologist doctor of New Town Clinic. This clinic is in Kolkata and it is serving the mankind for a long time.

Health issues:

PCOS-

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal condition found in women. This health condition triggers hirsutism because PCOS is linked to hyperandrogenism.

Symptoms:

• Irregular periods
• Heavy periods
• Acne
• Pelvic pain
• Balding

Polycystic ovary syndrome may cause one’s ovaries to produce tiny, fluid-filled cysts and these cysts may cause infertility also.

Cushing’s syndrome:

High levels of cortisol cause Cushing syndrome or hypercortisolism. This syndrome can be linked to adrenal gland disease or adrenal tumors. According to one of the best gynaecologists in Kolkata, this may demand surgery also.

Symptoms:

• Round face
• Stretch marks
• Weight gain
• Excessive hair growth
• Irregular periods

Treatments:

A doctor may ask one to go for laboratory testing to assess her hormone levels to determine the cause of abnormal hair growth. Doctors may ask one about periods as in most cases, hormonal imbalance affects the regularity of the menstrual cycle. CT scans, ultrasounds, or, MRI – these imaging tests help diagnose health issues like PCOS or tumors.