Hormonal Imbalance: Excess Hair Growth and Irregular Periods

Q: Hormonal Imbalance: Excess Hair Growth and Irregular Periods

Dear Ms. <br>Sofia： <br>1. <br>There are many causes of hirsutism in women; the more common ones include polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and idiopathic hirsutism. <br>Less common causes may include medications (such as Danazol), congenital adrenal hyperplasia, ovarian tumors, ad

Is it an endocrine disorder?

Hello, doctor.
Since I started developing in the sixth grade, I've noticed an increase in body hair, particularly on my chest, which is quite noticeable and not just fine hair.
There are also two very thick hairs, about 5 to 6 centimeters long, similar in thickness to underarm hair, which really bothers me.
Additionally, my facial hair is quite prominent, and I have a noticeable line of hair along my abdomen.
My menstrual cycle has been very irregular, often not occurring for long periods.
Before college, I used to go to bed before 11 PM, but since starting college, my roommates stay up late, around 1 or 2 AM, making it difficult for me to sleep early, and sometimes I don't fall asleep until after 3 AM, resulting in an irregular schedule.
I believe this irregularity may have caused me to miss my period for four months last year, but after taking medication to induce menstruation, it finally returned.
Since then, my periods have been frequent, occurring about every two weeks, but the flow is very light, consisting mostly of clots, which is different from my previous flow.
I feel that since starting college, my hair growth has increased.
I have searched online and found some articles stating that having a few hairs on the chest is normal and related to genetics, but I feel that my chest hair is very noticeable, and the two particularly long and thick hairs are quite distressing.
Could you please advise if the hair growth is due to hormonal changes or genetics? If I want to go to the hospital for an examination, which department should I consult? Thank you!

Sofia, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/11

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine

Dear Ms.
Sofia:
1.
There are many causes of hirsutism in women; the more common ones include polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and idiopathic hirsutism.
Less common causes may include medications (such as Danazol), congenital adrenal hyperplasia, ovarian tumors, adrenal tumors, severe insulin resistance, hyperprolactinemia, and Cushing's syndrome, among others.

2.
If there is a sudden onset of rapidly progressive hirsutism (within less than a year), hirsutism occurring after the age of 30, the presence of masculinizing features, or a significant increase in serum androgens, more serious issues may need to be considered.

3.
Given that you are experiencing hirsutism in the chest area along with menstrual irregularities, the possibility of an endocrine disorder cannot be completely ruled out; it is advisable for you to seek medical attention at a hospital's metabolism or obstetrics and gynecology department.

Reply Date: 2016/07/11

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that could be related to hormonal imbalances, which can indeed affect hair growth and menstrual cycles. Let's break down your concerns and provide some insights.

Understanding Hormonal Imbalance
1. Excess Hair Growth (Hirsutism): The presence of coarse, dark hair in areas where men typically grow hair (like the chest, abdomen, and face) is known as hirsutism. This condition can be caused by elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) in the body. Conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) are common causes of hirsutism and can also lead to irregular menstrual cycles. Other potential causes include adrenal gland disorders or certain medications.

2. Irregular Periods: Irregular menstruation can be a sign of hormonal imbalance. In your case, the irregularity seems to correlate with lifestyle changes, such as altered sleep patterns and stress levels associated with university life. Stress and poor sleep can disrupt the hypothalamus, which plays a crucial role in regulating hormones that control the menstrual cycle.

Possible Causes
- Genetics: Family history can play a significant role in both hirsutism and menstrual irregularities. If other female relatives have similar symptoms, it may suggest a genetic predisposition.

- Hormonal Factors: As mentioned, elevated androgen levels can lead to both excess hair growth and menstrual irregularities. Hormonal fluctuations during puberty and lifestyle changes can exacerbate these issues.

Recommendations for Medical Evaluation
Given your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Consult a Gynecologist or Endocrinologist: These specialists can evaluate your symptoms in the context of hormonal health. A gynecologist can assess menstrual irregularities, while an endocrinologist specializes in hormonal disorders.

2. Diagnostic Tests: Your doctor may recommend blood tests to check hormone levels, including testosterone, estrogen, and other relevant hormones. An ultrasound may also be performed to check for ovarian cysts if PCOS is suspected.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: While waiting for your appointment, consider maintaining a regular sleep schedule, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and following a balanced diet. These changes can positively impact hormonal balance.

Treatment Options
If a hormonal imbalance is confirmed, treatment options may include:
- Medications: Hormonal contraceptives can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce hirsutism. Anti-androgens like spironolactone may also be prescribed to reduce hair growth.

- Lifestyle Changes: Weight management, regular exercise, and a healthy diet can help manage symptoms, especially if PCOS is diagnosed.

- Hair Removal Options: For cosmetic concerns regarding excess hair, options such as laser hair removal or electrolysis can be considered.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms of excess hair growth and irregular periods could be linked to hormonal imbalances, possibly influenced by genetics and lifestyle factors. Consulting with a healthcare professional, particularly a gynecologist or endocrinologist, will be crucial in diagnosing and managing your condition effectively. Remember, early intervention can lead to better outcomes, so seeking medical advice sooner rather than later is recommended.

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