Reviewed by Dr. Kenton Bruice, MD
Reading time: Four minutes
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder that affects many women of reproductive age. It’s characterized by a combination of symptoms like irregular menstrual periods, ovarian cysts, and elevated androgen levels.
This condition can lead to a range of complications, including fertility issues, metabolic problems, and an increased risk of mood disorders.
If you are reading this blog, it’s likely that you already know what PCOS is and are struggling with the symptoms associated with this disorder. A common, and often distressing symptom, is hirsutism (excessive hair growth).
Our goal with this blog is to explain why PCOS causes this symptom and how BHRT can help to balance hormones, ultimately alleviating the symptoms associated with PCOS. Let’s begin by explaining hirsutism and what causes it.
Table of Contents
What is Hirsutism?
Hirsutism is a condition characterized by excessive hair growth in areas where women typically have minimal or no hair, such as the face, chest, and back. This abnormal hair growth pattern often mimics that seen in males and can be a source of significant distress and self-consciousness for those affected.
The dark hairs that grow in these regions are usually coarse, contrasting with the fine, lighter hair that commonly grows in these areas in women.
The primary cause of hirsutism is an increase in the levels of androgens, which are male hormones like testosterone. Although women naturally produce androgens, women with hirsutism have levels that are higher than normal, leading to the development of male-pattern hair growth.
PCOS is one of the most common reasons for elevated androgen levels in women. The ovaries produce an excessive amount of androgens, disrupting the normal hormonal balance.
Other potential causes of hirsutism include adrenal gland disorders, such as Cushing’s syndrome and adrenal hyperplasia, both of which can lead to excessive androgen production. Certain medications, insulin resistance, and obesity can also contribute to the development of hirsutism by affecting hormonal balance.
Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment, as it allows for targeted therapies that can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected.
In the next section, we will discuss how BHRT can help with hirsutism in women with PCOS.
How BHRT Can Help with Hirsutism
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is a form of hormone therapy that uses hormones derived from plant sources to supplement natural hormone levels in the body.
For women with PCOS and elevated androgen levels, BHRT can help balance hormones by replacing deficient sex hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, and controlling excess androgens. This can lead to a reduction in hirsutism and other PCOS symptoms, such as irregular periods and acne.
BHRT is tailored to each individual’s unique hormone levels, allowing for a more personalized treatment plan that can address specific imbalances.
In addition to addressing the root cause of hirsutism, BHRT has been shown to improve overall health and well-being in women with PCOS. It can help reduce the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and mood disorders associated with this condition.
For more information about PCOS, read Managing PCOS With Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy and Do I Have PCOS? Take Our Symptoms Quiz!
How We Can Help
Dr. Kenton Bruice, MD, specializes in treating hormonal imbalances and conditions like PCOS and hirsutism. Treatment starts with a simple blood test to identify hormone imbalances, followed by a customized BHRT plan tailored to each individual’s needs. Our goal is to help patients achieve hormonal balance and alleviate their symptoms, improving overall quality of life.
If you are struggling with hirsutism or other PCOS symptoms, contact us to schedule a consultation and learn how BHRT can benefit you. To book an appointment at our Denver location, call (303) 957-6686. For our Aspen location, call (970) 925-6655.
We will be opening a new location in St. Louis, MO – stay tuned for more details!
FAQs About PCOS and Hirsutism
What does PCOS hirsutism look like?
PCOS hirsutism is characterized by excessive hair growth in areas where women typically have minimal or no hair, such as the face, chest, and back. The hairs that grow in these regions are usually coarse and dark, resembling the hair growth pattern seen in males.
Does PCOS facial hair ever go away?
It is possible for PCOS facial hair to decrease with proper treatment, such as BHRT. However, other factors such as genetics and race can also contribute to hirsutism, and treatments to remove unwanted hair, such as waxing, threading, or laser hair removal may be necessary.
What percentage of PCOS patients have hirsutism?
About 70-80% of women with PCOS experience hirsutism. This makes it one of the most common symptoms associated with this condition.
What is the difference between terminal hair follicles and vellus hair follicles?
Terminal hair follicles are thick, pigmented hairs that grow on the scalp, eyebrows, and pubic region. In contrast, vellus hair follicles are fine and lightly pigmented and typically grow in areas where hair is minimal or absent in women, such as the face. Hirsutism is when fine hairs turn into thick hairs because of hormonal imbalances.