What should we do about male-pattern hair growth on females?

What should we do about male-pattern hair growth on females?  The medical term for this condition is hirsutism.  Hirsutism affects 5-10% of premenopausal women and is usually an indication of an underlying endocrine disorder like polycystic ovarian syndrome.  Women with hirsutism have coarse dark hairs in androgen-sensitive areas like the upper lip, chin, back, and buttocks.  Please see your physician to investigate the root cause of the hirsutism.

There was a recent meta-analysis, where many studies are combined to get a more robust result.  The best treatment for hirsutism is birth control pills with combined estrogen-progestin pills.  Other medications that help curb this hair growth are antiandrogens like finasteride or metformin a medication used mostly for diabetics.

Want more information?  J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2018: 103 (4): 1258-1264.

I hope this helps.

About drlesliegreenberg

I have been practicing as a family physician for over 20 years--as both an educator of physicians and clinician. From infancy to the elderly, I perform obstetrics and general medicine. I love my career and am passionate about my field of knowledge and my patients. Follow me on Facebook at Leslie Md Greenberg Medical Disclaimer The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider.
This entry was posted in General Medicine- Adults, Uncategorized, Women's Health and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.