Symptoms of hirsutism and ways to restore hormonal levels

A disease such as hirsutism is extremely unpleasant for a woman. This pathology develops as a result of serious disorders occurring in the body. The disease should be diagnosed as early as possible. After which it will be possible to relieve the woman of unaesthetic symptoms.

Hirsutism - what is it?

Hirsutism is a pathology that occurs exclusively in females and is characterized by excessive hair growth of the skin according to the male pattern. At the same time, every representative of the fair sex experiences terrible discomfort.

Hair can grow in excess on the face, back, stomach and other areas of the body. Men do not have this problem, but women have to resort to various tricks to get rid of this problem.

However, mechanical hair removal does not produce results, since the problem lies in hormonal imbalances.

Hirsutism is a complex disease

The risk group includes women and children with a hereditary predisposition who have elevated levels of testosterone and prolactin in the blood. Hirsutism does not occur as often as practice shows, but it greatly complicates the life of every patient with a similar diagnosis.

Polycystic ovary syndrome is often a predisposing factor for hirsutism

Types of disease

The disease has some classification depending on the root cause:

• neuroendocrine - develops as a result of dysfunction of one of the parts of the endocrine system;
• hereditary or constitutional - often inherited and sometimes occurs in several family members at once;
• Iatrogenic - occurs as a result of taking certain types of medications.

Causes and development factors

The main reason for the development of hirsutism is the excessive production of androgens - male sex hormones in the female body. In this case, vellus hair first grows, which over time acquires the character of stubble and becomes stiff. The following reasons lead to excess amounts of androgens:

1. Pathologies of the ovaries, the main of which are:
   • polycystic disease - the presence of cystic formations in the ovaries;
   • chronic lack of ovulation associated with insufficient function of these organs;
   • hypertrophy of one of the ovaries - an increase in volume as a result of dysfunction.
2. Adrenal tumors. As a result of the appearance of formations, excessive production of steroid hormones occurs.
3. Pituitary gland diseases. Hirsutism often becomes a common symptom of a pituitary tumor - prolactenoma.
4. Taking medications. The occurrence of excess male pattern hair growth can be a consequence of treatment with androgen drugs, steroids and anabolic agents.

What may be the symptoms of the disease?

Main symptoms of hirsutism:

• Excessive hair growth on the body (especially above the upper lip, on the back and stomach);
• obesity;
• menstrual irregularities up to absence of menstruation;
• acne;
• oily seborrhea of ​​the face and head;
• baldness;
• infertility;
• muscle enlargement;
• deepening of the voice;
• reduction in the size of the mammary glands;
• increased libido;
• absence of vaginal discharge.

Hirsutism during pregnancy at the initial stage occurs with the appearance of a mild degree of hair growth. Rarely do any additional symptoms appear.

In the presence of an advanced form of the disease, pregnancy is impossible. Often the possibility of conception is also reduced to zero.

In adolescents with this disease, the first menstruation is often late, and increased production of androgens contributes to the occurrence of acne vulgaris and the presence of areas with excessive hair growth. In children under 12 years of age and newborns, in most cases there are no signs of the disease.

Diagnostic tests

An important point in diagnosis is interviewing the patient. First of all, you should contact a gynecologist, and only then an endocrinologist. Quite often at this stage it is possible to determine the approximate cause of the disease. The doctor clarifies such points as:

• cycle regularity;
• taking medications;
• hereditary predisposition;
• nature of the course (rapid development of symptoms or gradual).

Additionally, the following research methods are carried out:

1. A blood test to determine the level of total testosterone, androsterone and cortisol. These indicators will allow you to understand whether there are abnormalities in the functioning of the ovaries and adrenal glands. If the level of major hormones is normal in a certain phase of the cycle, the diagnosis of hirsutism is not confirmed.
2. Ultrasound. Ultrasound examination determines abnormalities in the functioning of the adrenal glands, ovaries, and also allows us to identify congenital anomalies.
3. MRI. Magnetic resonance imaging can detect abnormalities in the pituitary gland, as well as the presence of brain tumors.
4. Laparoscopy. It is used when there are controversial issues and is carried out to determine polycystic ovaries. In this case, a thin optical instrument is inserted through a small hole to reveal the problem.

Moderate male-pattern hair growth can occur in women from eastern and southern countries, but this is not hirsutism, but is considered a normal variant for certain nationalities.

Basic treatment methods

For mild to moderate hirsutism, drug therapy is used. In the presence of hyperandrogenism, medications are prescribed to reduce the level of male sex hormones in the blood.

Hormonal oral contraceptives that have a similar effect are often used. Such drugs not only regulate the menstrual cycle, but also suppress excessive testosterone production.

These include: Yarina, Silhouette and Janine.

In case of excess production of androgens in combination with polycystic ovary syndrome, Veroshpiron or Sprinolactone is often prescribed, which promotes additional fluid removal, preventing the appearance of edema in pathologies of the adrenal glands. Flutamide or Flutafarm has pronounced antiandrogenic activity and suppresses tumor growth, which is important in the presence of hirsutism.

If ovarian hyperplasia is diagnosed, Descamethasone and Ketoconazole are prescribed. The drugs are used to regulate the adrenal glands in case of serious pathologies expressed by dysfunction of these organs. Glucocorticoids begin to act very quickly and can often be taken orally or injected.

Drug therapy - gallery

Yarina has antiandrogenic activity Veroshpiron is used for adrenal dysfunction Flutapharm helps suppress excessive androgen production Dexamethasone is a glucocorticoid

Diet food

In the presence of hirsutism, excess weight is often present, so it is important to limit the consumption of carbohydrate foods and foods containing significant amounts of fat, which stimulate even greater androgen production. For this purpose, special dietary nutrition is provided with a predominance of protein and plant foods. Carbohydrates and fats should also be present in the diet, as necessary for the body, but in smaller quantities.

It is necessary to exclude all processed foods, fast food, smoked and fried foods, chocolate and sweet soda. It is recommended to enrich the diet with vegetables and fruits, as well as cereals and whole grains. Instead of chocolate, it is better to eat dried fruits. Sea fish and shrimp are very healthy.

What to include in your diet - gallery

Vegetables and fruits are the lowest-calorie foods Cereals stimulate the intestines, eliminating toxins Whole grain bread has less calories than premium flour Dried fruits are very beneficial for the body Sea fish contains essential omega-3 acids Shrimp contain the healthiest protein

Physiotherapy and surgery

Surgical intervention is indicated in the presence of tumors of the adrenal glands, ovaries and pituitary gland. In this case, modern minimally invasive techniques are used, the main of which is laparoscopy.

This is not only a method of treatment, but also of diagnosis, when other types become useless and uninformative.

With the help of a small puncture, the tumor is removed and after the operation there is practically no trace left.

Physiotherapy is usually ineffective. Laser and photo treatments are mainly used on areas with increased hair growth. In this case, a laser beam or highly pulsed light acts directly on the hair follicle, destroying it and inhibiting growth. In the future, hair on the affected area will appear less and less.

Traditional methods of treatment

Traditional methods of treating hirsutism help get rid of excess hair using natural remedies. However, it should be remembered that such methods mask the problem, but do not eliminate it. Most often they use walnuts, or rather, their unripe version, which contains juice.

To do this, cut the fruit and rub the juice into problem areas. A good effect can be achieved if there is a significant amount of hair above the upper lip. Three procedures are enough, which need to be repeated over several days.

The skin of horse chestnuts gives good results. Only 1 cup of raw materials is required. The peel should be poured with 250 ml of boiling water and cooked until half of the liquid has evaporated. Then the broth should be cooled and strained. It is necessary to rub the resulting product into areas with thick hair every day until a lasting effect is obtained.

You can achieve good results if you prepare a special composition based on tar. To do this, you will additionally need 1 cup of green walnut juice. It is necessary to mix both ingredients in equal proportions and let it brew in a dark place for 20 days. Then rub into problem areas daily until the hair disappears.

Traditional methods of treatment - gallery

The green fruits of walnuts contain juice, which allows you to get rid of excess vegetation. Horse chestnuts have a green peel, which reduces hair growth. Tar can be purchased at any pharmacy

Treatment prognosis and complications

The prognosis for treatment of mild to moderate disease is good. A timely approach to therapy allows the problem to be eliminated within 6 months. Severe hirsutism, which is based on tumor processes, is very long and difficult to eliminate. Particularly dangerous is the presence of prolactenoma, which can cause loss of vision and severe headaches.

Hirsutism is a pathology that creates terrible psychological discomfort for a woman, sometimes interfering with her intimate life. A terrible consequence of the pathology is persistent infertility and the inability to conceive in the presence of polycystic ovaries.

Disease prevention

The main preventive measure is timely consultation with a doctor.

If body hair suddenly begins to grow, which was absent earlier, and menstrual irregularities occur, then it is better not to postpone a visit to the gynecologist.

Additional preventive measures include a healthy diet and diagnosis of endocrine disorders at the initial stage of their development. You also need to control your weight and move more.

Any deviations in the normal course of the menstrual cycle, as well as concomitant seborrhea and acne during reproductive age should alert every woman. If there is a risk of hereditary predisposition, it is recommended to use hormonal contraceptives with an antiandrogenic effect as preventive measures.

What is hirsutism and how to get rid of it - video

Reviews about the treatment of hirsutism

Hirsutism is a complex pathology. And contrary to popular belief, it is based on serious diseases, which, in addition to increased hair growth, also bring other unpleasant symptoms: acne and excess weight. Early diagnosis allows you to effectively get rid of the disease, and preventive measures will prevent its reappearance.

• Alena Klimova
• Print

Source: https://creacon.ru/endokrinologiya/girsutizm-chto-eto-takoe.html

How to restore a woman's hormonal levels

Other hormonal disorders

19.04.2018

21.3 thousand

14.3 thousand

9 min.

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The concentration of hormones in the blood varies depending on the woman’s age, quality of life, or the presence of diseases.

Hormonal imbalance does not have pronounced symptoms, so girls may confuse disruptions of the endocrine system with other diseases. Restoring hormonal levels must be comprehensive.

This includes normalizing nutrition, sleep and rest patterns, and taking hormonal and non-hormonal medications.

Hormone levels always change after conception. The body is preparing to support the life of the embryo. A new hormone is released - human chorionic gonadotropin. In the fourth month, the placenta begins to support the pregnancy thanks to its own hormones, so the balance in the body is gradually restored.

The next jump in hormonal levels occurs in the period after childbirth. Gradually the body returns to its previous state, a reverse restructuring occurs. Now the body's main task is to produce breast milk. The amount of estrogen and progesterone drops. This is a normal situation that does not require treatment.

Causes of hormonal disorders in women:

• Taking contraceptives . The main problems with oral contraceptives arise not from taking the drugs, but from their improper use. It is highly discouraged to self-prescribe hormonal contraceptives, since inappropriate use of these drugs sharply increases the risk of developing cancer in the organs of the reproductive system.
• Emergency contraception . One of the side effects of these drugs is hormonal disturbances. Quite often, a menstrual cycle disorder occurs, which cannot be restored on its own.
• Diseases of the endocrine system . Any pathological processes in the glands lead to a decrease in the amount of hormone they produce.
• Abortion . They happen not only at the request of the woman, but also due to medical necessity, when childbirth and pregnancy threaten the health and life of the woman. Termination of pregnancy forces the body to urgently make adjustments to its previous state.
• Poor standard of living . Chronic lack of sleep, poor nutrition, stress at work and in the family have a direct impact on hormonal levels and the nervous system.

A normal increase in the amount of hormones in the blood includes puberty and menopause. From 12 to 14 years of age, the female reproductive organs mature.

External sexual characteristics become more pronounced, and menstruation appears. The concentration of sex hormones in the blood increases during this period, but after some time it returns to normal.

Pathology is considered to be the presence of menstruation at 11 years of age or a delay in its appearance in girls over 14 years of age.

During menopause, a woman’s body prepares to complete its reproductive function. The cycle lengthens first by 2 weeks, then by a month or more. The amount of hormones decreases. It is not possible to completely restore hormonal levels during menopause. But in some situations, certain therapy is prescribed to smoothly prepare a woman’s body for menopause.

Delayed puberty occurs due to hormonal imbalance. This is evidenced by the absence of secondary sexual characteristics in a 16-year-old girl . Such problems arise as a result of genetic predisposition. By the age of 17, the situation is resolved, and all systems begin to function normally.

However, there is also a pathological delay. It is caused by Shereshevsky-Turner disease or dysfunction of the pituitary gland. This situation requires careful treatment and does not go away on its own.

Symptoms of hormonal imbalance :

Affected areaSigns

Genital area	decreased sexual desire or its complete absence; anorgasmia; infertility; pain during sexual intercourse
Nervous system disorders	hypersomnia; nervousness, short temper and irritability; fast fatiguability; emotional instability; decrease in intellectual activity
Metabolic pathology	rapid weight gain; excessive deposition of fat in a particular area of ​​the body; osteoporosis; fragility and hair loss

Hormonal imbalances are characterized by heavy uterine bleeding in the middle of the cycle. This situation indicates disorders of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland and ovaries. Rapid blood loss during dysfunctional bleeding leads to the development of anemia.

Diseases with this symptom are quite dangerous because they threaten a woman’s reproductive health. You should not stop uterine bleeding on your own. It is necessary to call an ambulance as quickly as possible, and then contact a gynecologist to find out the causes of the symptom.

Therapy is prescribed by a gynecologist together with an endocrinologist. Treatment tactics directly depend on the cause of the hormonal imbalance. All factors that can affect a woman’s well-being are taken into account: age, sex life, nutrition, symptoms, presence of diseases. You should not try to restore hormonal levels on your own, since there is a high risk of aggravating the situation even further.

Types of therapy to restore hormonal levels in women:

• Substitute . It is used in cases where the endocrine glands are unable to independently produce sufficient amounts of hormones for the healthy functioning of the body. Symptomatic replacement therapy helps as long as the woman takes the medications.
• Stimulating . Medicines improve the functioning of the endocrine glands. Preparations containing neurohormones of the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary gland are mainly used.
• Braking . It is necessary for a woman when the endocrine system is overly active. Prescribed for the treatment of benign neoplasms.

Restoring hormonal levels must begin with normalizing nutrition. You should avoid fatty meats, semi-finished products, canned food, confectionery products, dried and overly salted products. The menu should be built primarily from vegetables, grains, fruits and lean meats.

Foods that have a positive effect on the production of female hormones:

• Cabbage . Contains active substances that improve a woman's overall well-being. With regular consumption of fresh cabbage, the risk of developing cancer is reduced.
• Beet . The composition includes vitamin B8 and folic acid, which protect the female body from stress.
• Tofu . The amount of estrogen in soy products is very high. Regular consumption of tofu will significantly increase the level of this hormone in the blood.
• Oysters . Natural source of zinc. Reduces skin inflammation, helps treat acne in adolescence.
• Ginger . Improves metabolism.

Compliance with sleep and rest patterns is an integral part of therapy . The activity of the glands depends quite strongly on the time of day. Most of them actively produce hormones at night, at a time when a woman should be resting. Failure to comply with sleep patterns leads to a weakening of the body as a whole, which significantly slows down the process of normalizing hormonal levels.

The final formation of the glands of the endocrine system ends by the age of 25. Treatment of minor girls requires careful selection of drugs.

Even the mildest hormonal drugs affect the glands of the endocrine system. The body begins to receive hormones from external sources, which reduces the independent production of substances. The performance of organs decreases.

After discontinuation of the drug, there is a high risk of withdrawal syndrome.

Children are prescribed hormonal drugs only in special cases. Such drugs are quickly destroyed in the body:

• Hydrocortisone.
• Prednisolone.

In the presence of pathologies of the endocrine system, symptoms similar to diabetes mellitus may be present. An increased concentration of sugar is found in the urine. This situation is not associated with a lack of insulin. To get a complete picture, you should donate blood for hormonal levels.

The latest generation of hormonal drugs emit natural female hormones almost identically. The drugs are available in tablet form, but in severe cases injections are prescribed. The treatment uses a small dosage, which does not disrupt ovulation and does not have a contraceptive effect.

Contraindications to taking medications:

• cancer of the uterus or mammary glands;
• severe forms of diabetes mellitus;
• renal failure;
• uterine bleeding for any reason.

It is strictly forbidden to independently diagnose yourself based on the presence of symptoms. All drugs are selected individually for each woman, based on the blood test data obtained.

Preparations for restoring hormonal levels in women:

HormonesDrugs

Pituitary gland	Adiposine; Adiurecrin; Gonadotropin; Intermedin; Corticotropin; Synacthen; Thyrotropin
Thyroid gland	Thyroidin; Thyrocalcitonin; Triiodothyronine
Parathyroid gland	Dihydrotachysterol; Parathyroidin; Insulin
Adrenal glands	Adrenaline hydrochloride; Hydrocortisone; Deoxycorticosterone acetate; Cortin; Prednisolone; Triamcinolone

Sex hormone preparations are prescribed as replacement therapy. For amenorrhea and early menopause, hormonal medications are taken in cycles. Treatment continues until normal menopause returns. If a woman is planning to conceive, then taking the medications is not interrupted, as they help normalize the condition of the endometrium of the uterus and vagina.

Preparations containing female sex hormones:

HormoneMedications

Estrogens	Dimestrol; Diethylstilbestrol; Octestrol; Szigetin
Progesterones	Oxyprogesterone; Eroton; Progestin

Phytoestrogens are natural substances that are found in plants. They are very similar to human estrogens in molecular structure. Preparations containing phytoestrogens are prescribed in cases where hormonal medications are contraindicated for women. These products have a milder effect. They help reduce unpleasant symptoms caused by a lack of hormones during menopause.

Herbal medicines are gaining popularity. They do not cause the negative side effects that chemical medications containing hormones have.

The most popular non-hormonal drugs acceptable for menopause:

NameDescription

"Remens"	Homeopathic remedy for estrogen deficiency. Corrects the psychophysiological state of a woman. Has an analgesic effect
"Climaxan"	The drug is prescribed for menopausal syndrome: hot flashes, increased sweating, headaches, irritability
"Tribestan"	A lipid-lowering agent, the component of which is Tribulus herb extract. Contains steroidal saponins. May improve the functioning of the female reproductive glands
"Estrovel"	Eliminates estrogen deficiency, improves a woman’s emotional state

Menopause is a normal physiological process that precedes the cessation of reproductive functions. The lack of hormones in this case is justified.

Non-hormonal therapy only softens the symptoms and makes it easier to enter the menopause phase, but does not help to completely get rid of it.

An attempt to artificially compensate for the lack of hormones will not help stop aging, but can even lead to the development of cancer. Compensation is prescribed in some cases when it is due to therapeutic benefit.

Traditional medicine recipes will help normalize hormonal levels. Therapy of this kind should not be the main one, but can be used as an auxiliary therapy to traditional treatment. Hormonal products can be made at home, but their therapeutic effect will be much lower.

Traditional medicine for restoring hormonal levels in women:

NameApplication area

Rhodiola quadruple	A plant growing in Altai. The herb is rich in phytoestrogens. It can be purchased at a pharmacy. Taken as tea
Hog queen	Normalizes estrogen levels. Used as an adjuvant in the fight against ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps and erosion of the mucous membranes
Cohosh	The plant has an antiandrogenic effect. Helps regulate hormonal levels during menopause
Liquorice root	Reduces testosterone levels in a woman’s blood. Helps fight ovarian cysts
Field dandelion root	Cleanses the liver. Helps eliminate acne caused by hormonal imbalances

Restoring hormonal levels using folk remedies is based on taking herbs containing phytoestrogens. Herbs can be brewed as tea or made into infusions. The dilution proportions for them are 15 from one glass.

When brewing, the herb should not overly color the water. This indicates that the dose has been exceeded. Strong tea leaves will lead to food poisoning. The tea should be brewed so that the water can be seen and its color changes slightly.

Source: https://fraumed.net/hormones/hormonal-disorders/vosstanovity.html

Hirsutism

Hirsutism is excess hair growth on the body and face in women according to the male (androgenic) type. It is characterized by the appearance of hair in the upper lip, chin, chest, back and abdomen.

With hirsutism, irregularities in the regularity of the menstrual cycle, uterine bleeding, infertility, and anemia are often observed.

Mild hirsutism may not require treatment. Severe hirsutism requires long-term treatment (from 6 to 12 months) and elimination of the cause (polycystic or ovarian tumors, tumors of the adrenal glands, pituitary gland, Itsenko-Cushing syndrome) to stop hair growth. Various cosmetic methods help patients with hirsutism get rid of hair in the unwanted area.

Hirsutism is excess hair growth on the body and face in women according to the male (androgenic) type. It is characterized by the appearance of hair in the upper lip, chin, chest, back and abdomen.

With hirsutism, irregularities in the regularity of the menstrual cycle, uterine bleeding, infertility, and anemia are often observed.

Requires long-term treatment (from 6 to 12 months) and elimination of the cause (polycystic or ovarian tumors, tumors of the adrenal glands, pituitary gland, Itsenko-Cushing syndrome) to stop hair growth.

Hirsutism occurs in approximately 2-10% of women and can be so severe that it forces a woman to resort to various methods of mechanical removal of excess hair.

With hirsutism, the growth of coarse, pigmented hair shafts is observed in androgen-dependent areas that have increased sensitivity to male sex hormones - androgens: on the face, chest, around the nipple areola, on the stomach, back, hips.

Hirsutism should be distinguished from hypertrichosis, in which hair growth occurs in androgen-independent zones.

Hirsutism

With hirsutism, thin, soft, unpigmented vellus hair, under the influence of a number of factors, is transformed into terminal hair - long, hard and pigmented. The most common causes of hirsutism are hyperandrogenism, familial factors, drug side effects, and idiopathic androgen excess.

Hyperandrogenism, or increased production of androgens (male sex hormones), can develop in the following conditions:

• disorders of ovarian function in polycystic ovary syndrome, ovarian neoplasms, ovarian hyperthecosis, chronic anovulation, hypothalamic amenorrhea, etc. Hirsutism of ovarian origin is characterized by menstrual irregularities, infertility, and ovarian hypertrophy.
• disorders of adrenal function with congenital or acquired adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal tumors, etc. Hirsutism of adrenal origin develops due to increased production of steroid hormones by the adrenal glands, including androgens.
• disorders of pituitary function in Itsenko-Cushing syndrome, acromegaly, prolactinoma, etc. Hirsutism of pituitary origin is caused by primary damage to the pituitary gland with further involvement of the adrenal glands and is characterized by increased secretion of cortisol and androgens.

The development of familial (or genetic) hirsutism occurs as a result of genetic and chromosomal characteristics observed over several generations in individual families or ethnic groups. Hirsutism is more often observed in Caucasian and Mediterranean women, less often in Northern European and Asian women.

Taking a number of medications has the development of hirsutism as a side effect. These are corticosteroids (hydrocortisone, cortisol, etc.), anabolic drugs, progestins, androgens, streptomycin, acetazolamide, interferon, cyclosporine, carbamazepine, etc.

Hirsutism caused by unknown causes is called idiopathic androgen excess syndrome. With idiopathic hirsutism, there is increased sensitivity to androgen receptors in the skin and hair follicles. Manifestations of idiopathic hirsutism are less pronounced, hormonal abnormalities are minor, the menstrual cycle and reproductive function are usually not impaired.

The causes of hirsutism can also be the physiological and age-related conditions of a woman, during which a shift in the ratio of estrogens and androgens is observed (pregnancy, postmenopause). In 90% of cases, hirsutism is caused by polycystic ovary syndrome or idiopathic syndrome.

In accordance with the causes of excess hair growth, endocrinology distinguishes several clinical forms of hirsutism:

• neuroendocrine: ovarian, adrenal, pituitary hirsutism;
• dermatological or constitutional: familial, idiopathic hirsutism;
• Iatrogenic or exogenous – drug-dependent hirsutism.

Based on the degree of association of hirsutism with other disorders, the following are distinguished:

• hirsutism itself;
• hirsutism, aggravated by a hyperactive piloseborrheic complex (acne, acne, etc.);
• hirsutism with ovulation disorders;
• hirsutism in combination with signs of virilization.

The main manifestation of hirsutism is the male type of hair growth in women, that is, the growth of short, hard, pigmented hair on the face, chest, around the areolas of the mammary glands, on the back, abdomen, inner thighs, and buttocks.

Other signs of hirsutism are increased greasiness of the skin and hair, acne, alopecia, as a result of increased levels of androgens.

Hirsutism is often accompanied by menstrual dysfunction (irregular menstruation, amenorrhea) and infertility.

To assess the severity of hirsutism manifestations, various quantitative systems of indicators are used. The degree of facial hair is assessed on a scale from “0” to “+4”, where “+1” is the presence of hair above the upper lip or on the chin, and “+4” is a well-developed beard. According to another scoring scale, the severity of hirsutism is determined by counting:

• “hormonal number” (sum of points characterizing the quantitative and qualitative growth of hair on the chin, upper lip, chest and mammary glands, upper and lower back, upper and lower abdomen, shoulders and hips);
• “indifferent number” (sum of points characterizing the quantitative and qualitative growth of hair on the forearm and lower leg);
• “hirsut number” (the sum of the “indifferent” and “hormonal” numbers in the normal range is less than 12 points, on average 4.5-4.6 points).

However, these evaluation indicators are largely subjective and are important only for assessing the dynamics of increase or decrease in hair growth during treatment or as the disease progresses.

When collecting anamnesis in patients with hirsutism, it is necessary to clarify the following factors:

1. Nature of development of the disease:

• gradual growth of body hair, accompanied by the appearance of acne, weight gain, and irregular menstruation, often indicates polycystic ovary syndrome.
• a sharp development of hirsutism, accompanied by signs of virilization, is more often observed with androgen-secreting tumors.

2. Drug history.

3. The nature of menstrual function. In patients with a regular menstrual cycle, hirsutism is usually idiopathic or familial in nature and does not require in-depth examination.

To determine the nature of hirsutism, laboratory tests are performed, determining the content of the following hormones in the blood serum:

• total testosterone (with a testosterone content of <200 ng%, which decreases when taking prednisolone or oral contraceptives, polycystic ovary syndrome is suspected; with a concentration of >200 ng%, tumor lesions of the ovaries);
• dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) - an indicator of the activity of the secretory function of the adrenal glands (at a concentration of DHEA-S > 700 ng%, which decreases when taking dexamethasone, adrenal hyperplasia is suspected; an increased level of DHEA-S makes one think about tumor processes in the adrenal glands);
• androstenedione (an increase in the concentration of androstenedione is observed in ovarian pathology);
• 17-hydroxyprogesterone - an intermediate metabolite of adrenal steroid hormones (increases in congenital forms of adrenal hyperplasia);
• cortisol (concentration increases with Itsenko-Cushing syndrome);
• gonadotropins (the concentration of LH increases relative to FSH in polycystic ovary syndrome).

To find out the causes of hirsutism, a consultation with a gynecologist, ultrasound of the adrenal glands and ovaries, CT scan, MRI of the adrenal glands and other organs, and MRI of the brain are carried out. To exclude tumor processes in the ovaries, diagnostic laparoscopy is performed.

Mild hirsutism, not accompanied by menstrual dysfunction, does not require special treatment.

Since hirsutism, as a rule, is not an independent disease, but a manifestation of another pathology, its treatment is aimed at eliminating the primary etiological factor (removal of adrenal, pituitary or ovarian tumors, withdrawal of medications that cause hair growth, treatment of hypothyroidism, Cushing's syndrome or acromegaly etc.).

Drug therapy for hirsutism is prescribed after excluding androgen-secreting tumors. Since hirsutism is most often a consequence of hyperandrogenism, it is advisable to prescribe antiandrogenic drugs that suppress testosterone levels and reduce the sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens.

For congenital adrenal hyperplasia, cortisol, prednisolone or dexamethasone are used. To suppress the excessive formation of androgens in polycystic ovary syndrome, oral contraceptives, spirolactone, and clomiphene are prescribed.

A cycle of treatment with hormonal drugs takes from 3 to 6 months, sometimes cycles have to be carried out more than once. It should be taken into account that there are serious contraindications to treatment with antiandrogens during pregnancy, as well as the fact that taking these drugs prevents the appearance of new hair, but does not reduce existing hair.

For hirsutism accompanied by excess weight, patients are advised to follow a diet low in carbohydrates.

Chronic plucking and shaving of hair can cause scarring or skin infections. Chemical depilation is ineffective on thick and coarse hair.

The most effective method of getting rid of hair with hirsutism is photoepilation or laser hair removal, which destroys the hair follicle and stops the growth of new hair.

Many women suffering from hirsutism develop serious psychological complexes that interfere with a full family and intimate life, making it difficult to communicate in society.

Treatment of hirsutism is long-term, the effect of reducing hair growth becomes noticeable only after 6-12 months. When treating hirsutism, new hair growth stops, but existing hair does not disappear. Therefore, it is not possible to completely get rid of excess hair growth with hirsutism, although it is quite possible to slow down the rate of hair growth.

Source: https://www.KrasotaiMedicina.ru/diseases/zabolevanija_endocrinology/hirsutism

The right herbs and nutrition to restore a woman’s hormonal levels using folk remedies

There are many reasons why hormonal imbalances occur in women - from stress to serious illnesses. It is not always possible to restore it with herbs.

The use of alternative medicine is permissible only with the permission of a doctor, otherwise you may miss the development of the disease that caused the imbalance.

Read our article about how to restore a woman’s hormonal levels using folk remedies.

The use of folk remedies to normalize hormonal levels

Nature has a powerful self-regulation mechanism in the female body. It can be disrupted by an unhealthy lifestyle:

• smoking, frequent drinking of alcohol;
• lack of daily routine, lack of sleep;
• excessive physical and mental stress;
• strict diets or overeating, excess preservatives, sugar and animal fat in the diet, eating mainly processed foods;
• stress.

They lead to changes in the balance of hormones. If the effect of the damaging factor is prolonged, or there are several adverse effects at the same time, then a failure occurs. It manifests itself:

• violation of the regularity of menstruation;
• decrease or increase in monthly bleeding;
• fluctuations in body weight;
• swelling;
• pain in the lower abdomen, tension in the mammary glands;
• irritability;
• weakening of sexual desire.

In such cases, the use of medicinal plants is sometimes sufficient. Their mechanism of action is based on helping the natural restoration of hormonal levels - self-regulation.

Folk remedies, unlike synthetic drugs, act gently and do not give side effects when used correctly.

It means:

• they are used only in recommended doses;
• the phase of the cycle is taken into account; a break is required during menstruation;
• To get results you need at least a month of use;
• after three dosing cycles, one is skipped;
• herbal medicines cannot be combined with hormones or birth control pills unless prescribed by the gynecologist;
• It is necessary to monitor test results at least once every three months.

Plants are not subject to situations where a hormonal imbalance occurs against the background of a disease or itself provokes the development of a tumor process.

In such patients, the use of herbs causes progression of tumor growth, worsening of the disease, and the need to use potent drugs or surgery.

Therefore, it is strictly forbidden to try to interfere with the endocrine system on your own, without prior examination..

Natural remedies, like medications, should be used after a gynecological examination and blood tests for hormones:

If necessary, a study of the function of the adrenal glands, thyroid gland, pituitary gland, and ultrasound of the pelvic organs is also required. If diseases are excluded, and the failure of the cycle and hormone levels is considered functional, then the use of medications is not required. It is enough to make changes in lifestyle, nutrition and take herbal medicines.

We recommend reading the article about hormonal herbs for women. From it you will learn about the indications for taking herbs for hormonal imbalance, the main hormonal herbs for women, as well as the side effects of herbal remedies, who should not replace hormones with herbs.

And here is more information about vitamins for a woman’s hormonal levels.

How to improve hormonal levels with herbs

To restore the cyclicity of menstruation or normalize well-being during menopause, a number of plants are used.

Red brush

This plant has a predominant estrogenic effect. Preparations from it are taken from days 5 to 14 of the cycle or for 3 weeks with a week break during menopause. Main properties of the plant:

• activates the body's immune defense;
• helps improve adaptation to stress (adaptogen);
• increases the number of erythrocytes and leukocytes in the blood, hemoglobin content;
• slows down the development of atherosclerosis;
• normalizes the volume of blood discharge during menstruation;
• has a mild tonic and general strengthening effect, increases performance;
• rejuvenates the body;
• restores after long-term illnesses, injuries, long-term use of antibiotics, corticosteroid hormones (Prednisolone and analogues).

Indications for use include:

• painful and irregular menstruation;
• cervical erosion;
• hot flashes, sweating, irritability, general weakness during menopause;
• complex treatment of mastopathy, infertility, frigidity (sexual coldness), dysfunctional uterine bleeding, chronic inflammation of the uterine appendages.

Contraindicated in case of elevated estrogen levels and high blood pressure (above 170/100 mm Hg). To prepare a decoction, pour a tablespoon of root into a glass of boiling water.

Then it is kept in a water bath for 17-20 minutes. After 45 minutes, filter it, take a third of a glass three times a day, half an hour before meals. You can buy a ready-made tincture at the pharmacy.

It is drunk 25 drops, previously diluted in a quarter glass of water.

Red brush (root)

The resulting mixture is taken according to the scheme. On the first day, 5 drops are mixed with 20 ml of water and drunk before breakfast. Every day add 5 drops until they reach 40. Then reduce the dose in the same way (by 5 drops). This regimen allows you to maximize the body's defenses and restore hormonal regulation.

Hog queen

Preparations based on this plant have an effect similar to the natural hormone progesterone. Therefore, if the cycle is preserved, they are taken from 14 to 30 days (or until the onset of menstruation). Under the influence of the hog uterus:

• the size of fibroids decreases;
• heavy bleeding stops;
• ovarian function is normalized in polycystic disease;
• the patency of the fallopian tubes, impaired due to chronic inflammatory processes, is restored;
• ovulation is stimulated, the chance of conception increases in case of infertility, especially caused by progesterone deficiency.

Indications for use also include delayed sexual development in girls, polyps and cervical erosion. During treatment it is recommended to use protection. If pregnancy does occur, then it is important to reduce the dose of the herbal medicine very slowly.

To prepare the decoction, pour a tablespoon of chopped herbs into 300 ml of boiling water and simmer over low heat for 15 minutes. After cooling, you need to strain it and take 75 ml 4 times a day 20-30 minutes before meals.

Preparations from boron uterus are contraindicated in case of blood clotting disorders; in the third trimester of pregnancy they can cause miscarriage.

Sage

It is used to treat ovarian dysfunction and decreased estrogen levels. The infusion is drunk in the first phase of the menstrual cycle. Due to the pronounced stimulating effect, preparations from the plant are contraindicated in the presence of fibroids, proliferation of the inner layer of the uterus (endometrium), and endometriosis.

Used in the treatment of:

• infertility due to estrogen deficiency;
• early menopause;
• hot flashes and sweating during menopause;
• rare and scanty periods.

To prepare the decoction you will need a teaspoon of chopped herbs. It is poured with boiling water (200 ml) and cooked over low heat or a water bath for 7 minutes, filtered. Take a tablespoon 3 times a day. It is recommended to start taking it immediately after the end of menstruation, the course is about 7-10 days, then switch to using boron uterus.

During menopause, drink the decoction for 20 days, then take a break for a week.

Products for women's hormonal levels

Dietary habits have a powerful impact on hormonal levels. In obesity, fat cells synthesize hormones and hormone-like compounds in excess. With monotonous diets, the body often does not receive enough of the necessary substances for the production of sex steroids. Therefore, to normalize the functioning of the ovaries, controlling their function of the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, it is recommended:

• frequent split meals with a calorie content of no less than 1200 and no more than 2500 kcal. The individual norm should be calculated depending on height and physical activity;
• sufficient protein intake from fish, fermented milk drinks, eggs, lean meat, cottage cheese up to 9% fat content;
• the source of carbohydrates should be fresh fruits, berries, whole grain cereals, rye bread;
• Be sure to include salads from fresh vegetables with herbs and vegetable oil in your diet;
• Preferably unsaturated fats - from fish, nuts, avocado, olive and flaxseed oil;
• sugar, white flour, and alcoholic beverages are limited.

If there is an excess of estrogens, you need to exclude coffee, beer, and soy from the menu. Green tea and broccoli, bran, flax and chia seeds, and hemp are beneficial for women.

The lack of progesterone is partially compensated by nuts, bell peppers, raspberries and avocados, and pumpkin seeds.

During menopause, to improve well-being, the following are recommended:

• soy cheese tofu;
• seaweed – kelp, nori, seafood;
• nuts and seeds – up to 50 g per day;
• legumes – lentils, chickpeas;
• tea with sea buckthorn, viburnum;
• quality bean coffee;
• hard cheese;
• plain yogurt;
• olives;
• mackerel;
• sprouted wheat;
• red and yellow vegetables;
• spices – cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, cumin;
• quinoa grains

We recommend reading the article about drugs to normalize hormonal levels in women. From it you will learn about which tablets are used for hormonal deficiency, medications to normalize high hormonal levels, tablets and herbal medications.

And here is more information about how to increase progesterone.

Folk remedies for restoring hormonal levels are used for functional changes, and they are also included in complex treatment for diseases. Before starting therapy, it is necessary to undergo an examination. To normalize the balance of female sex hormones, red brush, hogweed, and sage are used. Proper nutrition can help improve your well-being.

Source: https://endokrinolog.online/kak-vosstanovit-gormonalnyj-fon-zhenshhiny-narodnymi-sredstvami/