PCOS Awareness Month 2023: What Is Hirsutism? Know How To Cope With This

Excess androgens can stimulate hair follicles to produce coarser and darker hair certain areas, causing hirsutism in individuals with PCOS.

PCOS Awareness Month 2023

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PCOS is a hormonal disorder that often leads to an imbalance in sex hormones, particularly elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) like testosterone. This hormonal imbalance can result in various symptoms, including hirsutism. Excess androgens can stimulate hair follicles to produce coarser and darker hair certain areas, causing hirsutism in individuals with PCOS.

The Relation Between PCOS And Hirsutism:

Talking about the relation between PCOS and Hirsutism, Dr. Akanksha Tripathi, who is a Senior Consultant and Laparoscopic Surgeon (OBGY), at Paras Health, Udaipur said, "PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and hirsutism are closely related. Hirsutism is a condition characterized by excessive hair growth in areas where hair is typically more common in males, such as the face, chest, and back."

"Managing PCOS typically involves addressing its hormonal imbalances, which can help alleviate hirsutism symptoms. Treatment options may include lifestyle changes, medication, or cosmetic treatments like laser hair removal. It's essential for individuals experiencing hirsutism and suspecting PCOS to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan," she added.

Home Remedies to Treat Excess Hair Growth On Face:

Dr. Blossom Kochhar, who is a Celebrity Aromatherapist, Founder of Blossom Kochhar Aroma Magic and Chairperson, Blossom Kochhar Group of Companies suggested home remedies to treat excess facial hair.

"In case you have excess hair growth on your face, you may try this pack that can help reduce the hair growth," she said.

• In a bowl, take 1 egg white, 1 tbsp sugar, and 1/2 tsp rice flour and mix them well to create a thick paste.
• Apply the paste to the areas with unwanted hair.
• Allow it to dry for about 20-30 minutes.
• Gently peel off the dried mask in the opposite direction of hair growth.
• Rinse with water.
• This mask can help in hair removal and exfoliation.
• Patch try before you apply to make sure that the ingredients suit you well.

"Another simple recipe is to make a thick paste with besan or gram flour, turmeric powder and milk. Apply the paste to the areas with unwanted hair. Allow it to dry for about 20-30 minutes. Gently scrub off the dried paste in the opposite direction of hair growth. Rinse with water. Turmeric has natural anti-inflammatory properties, and over time, this pack may help reduce hair growth," she added.

Treatment Of PCOS:

All the symptoms of PCOS are attributed to the increase in levels of testosterone in women. In this regard, Dr. Kalyani Deshmukh, Consultant Dermatologist at Traya said, "The good news is that PCOS is treatable and so are its symptoms. The most important treatment lies with Oral Contraceptive Pills and lifestyle changes like weight loss."

She further said the following:

• Weight loss is known to successfully reduce insulin resistance which in turn causes restoration of ovulation and fertility.
• As part of the treatment, the primary objective should be achieving 'sustainable' weight loss goals, which can be attained through dietary adjustments, regular aerobic exercises, and correcting circadian rhythm (body clock).
• Weight loss not only has the potential to regulate the menstrual cycle and enhance ovulation frequency but can also reduce androgen levels, thereby improving overall fertility.
• An early diagnosis can serve as an opportunity to manage this condition better on all fronts -be it emotional, internal, or physical. Furthermore, it can play a crucial role in preventing other significant health issues associated with PCOS.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]