The impact of the presence of hirsutism and hypertrichosis on the psychological state of women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome and hyperandrogenism

Martyna  Szymanska; Beata  Nowak; Karolina  Krupa-Kotara; Katarzyna  Barylska; Mateusz Grajek

doi:10.59400/apr.v3i2.1293

Martyna Szymanska Department of Public Health, Department of Public Health in Bytom, Silesian Medical University in Katowice, 41-902 Bytom, Poland
Beata Nowak Department of Public Health, Department of Public Health in Bytom, Silesian Medical University in Katowice, 41-902 Bytom, Poland
Karolina Krupa-Kotara Department of Public Health, Department of Public Health in Bytom, Silesian Medical University in Katowice, 41-902 Bytom, Poland
Katarzyna Barylska Department of Public Health, Department of Public Health in Bytom, Silesian Medical University in Katowice, 41-902 Bytom, Poland
Mateusz Grajek Department of Public Health, Department of Public Health in Bytom, Silesian Medical University in Katowice, 41-902 Bytom, Poland

Ariticle ID: 1293

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.59400/apr.v3i2.1293

Keywords: hirsutism; hypertrichosis; polycystic ovary syndrome; hyperandrogenism; mental status

Abstract

This review article focuses on analyzing the impact of excessive hairiness, in the form of hirsutism and hypertrichosis, on the psychological state of women affected by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hyperandrogenism. PCOS is one of the most common endocrine disorders in women, characterized by hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance and menstrual disorders, among others. Studies suggest that excessive body hair can have a significant impact on the quality of life and psychological state of PCOS patients, leading to lowered self-esteem, depression, anxiety and body dysmorphophobia. Despite numerous clinical observations, however, a complete understanding of the mechanisms underlying this association is lacking. The article underscores the need for further research to identify the biological and psychological mechanisms affecting the psychological state of women with excessive body hair in the context of PCOS and hyperandrogenism. As progress is made in this area, it will be possible to develop more effective management strategies and therapeutic interventions that can help improve the quality of life for these patients.

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