Irregular Menstruation and Excessive Hair Growth: What to Do?

Irregular menstruation

My menstrual cycle has been occurring every three weeks this year, with a short duration (lasting only two to three days, requiring no sanitary pads), and the blood flow is very light.
Additionally, I have very dense hair on my calves, which grows in an uneven pattern.
This has only happened in the past three years, and I noticed it severely this year while working from home and not removing hair.
I used to think it was genetic, but I realized that the amount of leg hair even exceeds my father's, while my mother has smooth legs.
Could this indicate a potential issue? Should I consult a gynecologist or an endocrinologist? Thank you.

Miss Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/18

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, you can first schedule an appointment with the obstetrics and gynecology department to have hormone levels tested.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/06/18

More Info

Irregular menstruation and excessive hair growth can be indicative of underlying hormonal imbalances or conditions that may require medical attention. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing two distinct issues: irregular menstrual cycles and increased hair growth in areas that may not be typical for you.
Irregular menstruation, characterized by cycles occurring every three weeks and lasting only two to three days with minimal bleeding, can be caused by several factors. Common causes include hormonal imbalances, stress, significant weight changes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and other endocrine issues. PCOS, in particular, is a condition that affects hormone levels and can lead to irregular periods as well as excessive hair growth (hirsutism) due to elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) in the body.
The excessive hair growth you mentioned, especially if it has increased significantly over the past three years, could also be related to hormonal changes. It’s important to note that while genetics can play a role in hair growth patterns, the sudden increase in hair density and distribution you described may warrant further investigation.
Given these symptoms, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. You can consider visiting either a gynecologist or an endocrinologist. A gynecologist specializes in female reproductive health and can evaluate your menstrual irregularities, while an endocrinologist focuses on hormonal issues and can assess any underlying endocrine disorders that may be contributing to both your irregular periods and excessive hair growth.

During your consultation, the doctor may perform a physical examination, take a detailed medical history, and possibly order blood tests to check hormone levels, including estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and thyroid hormones. Imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, may also be conducted to assess the ovaries and check for conditions like polycystic ovaries.

In terms of management, treatment options will depend on the underlying cause identified. If PCOS is diagnosed, lifestyle changes such as weight management, dietary adjustments, and regular exercise can be beneficial. Medications may also be prescribed to regulate menstrual cycles and manage excessive hair growth, such as hormonal contraceptives or anti-androgens like spironolactone.

It’s essential to address these symptoms not only for physical health but also for emotional well-being. Irregular menstruation and excessive hair growth can affect self-esteem and quality of life, so seeking help is a positive step towards managing these concerns.

In summary, your symptoms of irregular menstruation and excessive hair growth could be linked to hormonal imbalances, possibly related to conditions like PCOS. Consulting with a healthcare provider, either a gynecologist or an endocrinologist, will help you get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your needs. Remember, early intervention can lead to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.

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