EVERY FEMALE HAS BODY HAIR. HOWEVER, IT COULD BE MORE OBVIOUS IN SOME PEOPLE THAN IN OTHERS AND INVOLVE FACIAL GROWTH. WHEN THIS HAIR GROWTH
BECOMES EXCESSIVE, IT IS CALLED HIRSUTISM.
Causes of unwanted hair growth
All people develop typical body hair as they reach sexual maturity. Hirsutism
occurs after puberty when hormones induce hair to grow in regions of the
female body where it usually only does in males.
There are numerous underlying medical issues that might cause hirsutism.
There might not always be an underlying cause. It is up to the individual
whether they choose to continue with further treatment after having
unwanted hair removed aesthetically.
Causes of excess body hair
Androgens are sex hormones that, following puberty, aid in the development of the male reproductive system and secondary sexual characteristics. Testosterone is one of the most typical androgens. Even though doctors may refer to androgens as male hormones, both male and female bodies contain them.
After puberty, hair grows in the pubic region and beneath the arms on both sexes. They also encourage the development of facial hair, such as the moustache and beard, as well as other body hair in men.
People classified as female at birth may develop a number of medical problems that cause them to overproduce androgens and have excessive hair growth.
(PCOS) Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal condition that causes the body to create too many androgens, is the most frequent reason for excessive body hair in people who were born with a gender preference for women. In more than 68% of cases of hirsutism, the condition is to blame.
The causes of PCOS are not entirely understood by doctors. Contrary to popular belief, birth control pills and other hormone therapies can be used to address the symptoms. Read more about Polycystic ovarian syndrome on Mayo Clinic's website.
Thyroid Disorder
The thyroid creates hormones that assist in controlling body temperature and metabolism. Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are the two most prevalent thyroid disorders.
In rare instances, a thyroid disorder may result in a hormonal imbalance that promotes the growth of excessive body hair.
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
A uncommon category of conditions known as congenital adrenal hyperplasia damage the adrenal glands and can result in severe symptoms.
When the adrenal glands are not functioning properly, the female body may produce an excessive amount of androgens. Numerous symptoms, including increased hair growth, might result from this.
Adrenal hyperplasia-causing disorders are screened for by doctors. However, it could take till puberty to diagnose minor cases. More in-depth article on this HERE.
Tumors
0.3 percent of hirsutism cases, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians, are caused by tumours that secrete androgens.
In some situations, the body hair emerges quickly and may be accompanied by additional symptoms, including a lump in the pelvis or stomach.
Medication
Some drugs have the potential to increase hair growth. After starting a new prescription medication, a person should notify their doctor if they see new hair growth.
Among the medicines having hirsutism connections are:
certain antipsychotic medications
glucocorticosteroids
certain anti-seizure drugs
certain immunosuppressive drugs
hormone treatments like testosterone as well as certain medications that change the synthesis of hormones
Hyperprolactinemia
The condition known as hyperprolactinemia results in an increase in prolactin production by the body.
When a person is nursing, prolactin is primarily responsible for generating breast milk. Even if they do not nurse, people with this syndrome may Trusted Source.
Some people with hyperprolactinemia might not get pregnant or have periods. In addition, it can lead to hirsutism.