Hirsutism Treatment In Indore

Hirsutism-what is it?

Hirsutism is a condition of excessive growth of coarse dark hair in women in male-pattern areas such as:

Upper lip and chin

Chest and abdomen

Back and arms

It is different from normal hair growth, or vellus hair, and usually indicates androgen excess or sensitivity.

Prevalence Up to 10% of women of reproductive age are affected.

⚠️ Causes

Cause Notes

PCOS Most common cause; associated with irregular periods, acne, obesity

Idiopathic hirsutism: normal androgen levels, family history

Cushing’s syndrome Uncommon; includes weight gain and skin changes

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia Genetic enzyme defect leading to androgen excess

Medications Anabolic steroids, danazol, some progestins

Tumors\tRare androgen-producing ovarian or adrenal tumors

???? Treatment

Goals of treatment: To decrease androgen levels, block the effects of androgens, or remove excessive hair.

1. Medical Treatments

Anti-Androgen Medications

Spironolactone (25–100 mg/day)

Blocks androgen receptors; reduces new hair growth

Requires effective contraception in women of childbearing age

Finasteride (5 mg/day)

Inhibits conversion of testosterone to DHT

Flutamide (rarely used)

Powerful anti-androgen; risk of liver toxicity

Oral Contraceptives (OCPs)

Combination pills (estrogen + progestin) suppress ovarian androgen production

First-line treatment for women with PCOS-related hirsutism

Insulin-sensitizing Agents

Metformin improves insulin resistance, which may help in PCOS by reducing androgen levels.

2. Hair Removal & Cosmetic Methods

Temporary: Waxing, shaving, depilatory creams, threading

Long-term:

Laser hair removal-most effective for dark hair

Electrolysis is effective for all hair colors.

Combining medical therapy with cosmetic removal improves outcomes.

3. Lifestyle Measures

Weight loss in overweight women with PCOS can reduce androgen levels.

A balanced diet and exercise can improve insulin sensitivity.

Avoid androgenic supplements or medications

X What Not to Do

❌ Don't self-prescribe anti-androgens without medical supervision.

❌ Don’t expect hair removal methods alone to treat the underlying cause.

❌ Avoid high-dose steroid medications unless prescribed

❌ Don't ignore menstrual abnormalities: It may be sign of hormonal disorder

When to Seek Medical Care

Rapid onset or deteriorating hirsutism

Virilization may be manifested by: deepened voice, male-pattern baldness, clitoral enlargement

Irregular periods, infertility, or acne

Suspected adrenal or ovarian tumors

???? Summary Table

Aspect Recommendation

Cause Androgen excess (PCOS, idiopathic, medications, tumors)

Symptoms Coarse hair in excess in male-pattern areas

Medical Treatment Anti-androgens (spironolactone, finasteride) OCPs Metformin Cosmetic Treatment: Shaving, waxing, laser hair removal, electrolysis Prevention Address the hormonal imbalance; weight management Prognosis With treatment, hair growth can decrease; long-term cosmetic measures are usually necessary