Hirsutism And Unwanted Body Hair In Women
Defining Hirsutism
Hirsutism, as defined in medical literature, refers to the presence of excess coarse hair in females, typically in areas more commonly associated with male hair growth, such as the face, chest, abdomen, and back. However, some physicians also consider hirsutism to include any hair growth that is unwanted or embarrassing to women. This broader perspective acknowledges that, in contemporary Western culture, even small amounts of female hair can be seen as undesirable, where hairlessness is often considered the norm for women.
Shunning Stereotypes or No?
The removal of facial hair is just as paradoxical – the pressure to do it is recognized by many women as a stupid social norm and yet they strictly follow it. Because these little whiskers represent the most basic rules of the patriarchy – to ignore them is to jeopardize your reputation, even your dignity.
Causes of Excess Body or Facial Hair
Women can develop excessive body or facial hair due to higher-than-normal levels of androgen hormones. These hormones include testosterone and androstenedione. All individuals produce androgens, but these levels typically remain low in individuals assigned female at birth. However, if a women’s skin suddenly becomes sensitive to androgens, or her body begins to produce these hormones in excess, she can develop hirsutism.
There are a few conditions that can cause this hormone imbalance. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one common cause of hirsutism. It accounts for 85 percent of cases.
In addition to hirsutism, other symptoms of PCOS can include:
- irregular menstrual cycle
- weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- acne
- thinning hair
- skin tags
- fertility difficulties
Embracing Natural Hair: Redefining Beauty Standards
In recent years, there has been a growing movement towards body positivity, encouraging women to embrace their natural bodies, including body and facial hair. This shift challenges traditional beauty standards and promotes the idea that women should feel confident and comfortable, regardless of societal expectations. Embracing natural hair is becoming more accepted, and many women are choosing to redefine beauty on their own terms.
Discussing unwanted hair due to societal pressure can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that embracing your own choices and feeling confident in your skin is what truly matters.
Prompts for the Community
- What has been your experience with facial or body hair? How has it impacted your self-image?
- Have you ever felt pressured to remove hair due to societal expectations? How did you handle it?
- What are your thoughts on breaking stereotypes around body hair for women?
Feel free to answer all or any questions you would like to. We would love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Your voice can help break the silence and support others facing similar challenges.
Sources:
Science Direct
Healthline
The Guardian
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1) What has been your experience with facial or body hair? How has it impacted your self-image?
I have it and I hate it. I have always had the mustache bs but thanks to the depoprovera shot I have “fun” little chin hairs that I constantly have to battle.
2) Have you ever felt pressured to remove hair due to societal expectations? How did you handle it?
Yes and I accept it because I hate having facial hair. It’s uncomfortable at least and looks weird enough on me that I don’t want to deal with, it at most. I wish health care providers explained birth control side effects better.
3) What are your thoughts on breaking stereotypes around body hair for women?
I like what Sikh women do and have a ton of respect for Frieda Kahlo. I think facial hair actually looks great on women but the look isn’t for me. Maybe it can be down the road. We all go through styles and trends - men and women (all inclusive).
@reallyoverallofit
Hey there! Thank you for your thoughtful response.
I really appreciate the honesty and depth you’ve shared. I’ve faced similar pressures around facial hair, so I truly understand where you're coming from. Like you, I’m not a fan of those unwanted strands on my face, even as society moves toward a more inclusive perspective. But I’m gradually learning to accept it and ease the insecurities in my mind- one step at a time.
Thank you for the info. I never knew there was a medical term for it.
I only have like little hairs on my chin.. but, it's not visible unless you look very closely, so, it doesn't really bother me.
But I do remember back in my school days, there was a girl with a lot of body hair.. I remember seeing it when we're in the change room for PE classes.. her leg hair was visible.. Back then, as young girls, I don't think she really cared about it.. not sure how she felt when we got older though.. we ended up going to different schools..
I think, as long as we feel good in our own skin, excessive hair or not, it's all how we think of ourselves. Yes, others may not like it or give you weird looks, but it all comes down to how confident you feel about yourself. A lot of the times, in the public, people aren't really aware of other people, they only care about themselves.. Like, they'd only give you a second look if you dress very revealing or bold, but otherwise, they could care less.
@trueconfidant123
@Jaeteuk
Thank you for sharing your story!
I never knew the term either until I recently noticed some tiny hair around my chin that got me insecure, sending me into full-on research mode. I love your perspective on how it’s all about how we feel in our own skin. As kids we aren't so bothered by our outer appearances, but as we grow up and our exposure expands, we are introduced to some stupid societal ideologies making us wanting to become the 'best' in whatever we do, look our 'best', etc.
Your confidence is inspiring! It’s true, people are often more focused on themselves than on others. Your outlook is so refreshing, and I really appreciate it.
@trueconfidant123
Hi, Confidant,
- What has been your experience with facial or body hair? How has it impacted your self-image?
- Have you ever felt pressured to remove hair due to societal expectations? How did you handle it?
- What are your thoughts on breaking stereotypes around body hair for women?
1. I shave almost my whole body. I have a few skin issues, and shaving helps me keep my skin smoother.
2. no, because I shave
3. it doesn't work for me because I prefer to shave
