“Mask is a Lifesaver for me”: Girl Experiences of their Body when Living with Hirsutism having PCOS: Case Study

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Vibha Kriti¹, Shilpa Kumari², and Shobhana Joshi³ (Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh¹, Psychology Section, Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh², and Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh³)

Hirsutism, characterized by excessive androgen-dependent hair growth in women, often associated with conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), presents significant challenges to body perception and psychological well-being. This study aimed to investigate the impact of excessive body hair growth on women’s body image, self-esteem, and social interactions. Through qualitative interviews with affected women, it was revealed that hirsutism engenders profound dissatisfaction with body image, leading to feelings of inadequacy and a sense of being socially unacceptable. Participants expressed that emotional instability exacerbates these psychological effects, affecting both mental health and physical well-being. Moreover, the stigma associated with visible symptoms of hirsutism restricted social interactions, contributing to feelings of isolation and reduced quality of life. The findings underscore the multifaceted impact of hirsutism on women’s lives, highlighting its detrimental effects on body perception, self-esteem, and social functioning. Addressing these psychological and social dimensions is crucial for researchers and clinicians in comprehensive management approaches for hirsutism, alongside medical interventions aimed at hormone regulation and hair removal to enhance the overall well-being of affected individuals.