Can a Hormone Imbalance Cause Hair Growth?

Hormones regulate a great number of bodily functions. Hair growth is but one of these functions. When hormone levels in the body are no longer balanced, a condition known as hirsutism can develop. Hirsutism, or excessive hair growth, is caused by an imbalance of male hormones.

What is hirsutism?

• Hirsutism is a hormone-based condition characterized by excessive hair growth on the face and body in women.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of hirsutism include dark, thick hair growth on the face, chest, abdomen and back.

Causes of Hirsutism

• Hirsutism is caused by high levels of male hormones in the body. Several conditions can increase the level of hormones in the body, including polycystic ovary syndrome and Cushing's syndrome. Other causes of hirsutism include overly sensitive hair follicles, certain medications and genetics.

Treatment

• Your doctor will likely prescribe a medicine to block the excess male hormones in your body. These male hormone blockers typically take three to six months to start working. They affect new growth and do little for pre-existing excess hair. Birth control medication may also be prescribed to decrease male hormone levels.

Warning

• Medications that block male hormones can cause birth defects. Use of birth control is strongly advised.