Houston OBGYN |15 Self Check Exams Every Women Should Know- Thick, Coarse Hair in Unwanted Places

If you notice increased thick, dark hair growth on the face, chest, stomach, back, thumbs, or toes, this could be an indicator of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

A main underlying problem with PCOS is a hormonal imbalance. In women with PCOS, the ovaries make more androgens than normal. Androgens are male hormones that females also make. High levels of these hormones affect the development and release of eggs during ovulation.

The symptoms of PCOS can vary from woman to woman. Some of the symptoms of PCOS include:

• Infertility (not able to get pregnant) because of not ovulating. In fact, PCOS is the most common cause of female infertility.
• Infrequent, absent, and/or irregular menstrual periods
•  Increased hair growth on the face, chest, stomach, back, thumbs, or toes
• Weight gain or obesity, usually with extra weight around the waist
• Patches of skin on the neck, arms, breasts, or thighs that are thick and dark brown or black
• Skin tags — excess flaps of skin in the armpits or neck area
• Anxiety and depression

The cause of PCOS is unknown. But most experts think that several factors, including genetics, could play a role. Women with PCOS are more likely to have a mother or sister with PCOS.

If you want to start at the beginning of the series, go here.

If you have any further questions feel free to contact Houston OBGYN  Dr. Lisa Otey for more information or an appointment.

For more on similar topics visit our Women’s Health Blog.