Facial Hair
Higher levels of estrogen contribute to a lower presence of body hair in women, while higher levels of testosterone, the male sex hormone, prompts hair growth. Thus, it is not uncommon for women to start noticing darkening hair on their face during perimenopause. Going on hormone medication can help with facial hair, but you can also use natural measures to remove any unwanted facial and body hair, too.
That said, facial hair growth could also signal other issues. PCOS, or polycystic ovarian syndrome, can cause hair growth, as well as acne, pelvic pain, weight gain, sleep disruption, and other symptoms that mimic perimenopause. If you are between the ages of 30-40 and are unsure if you are perimenopausal or have PCOS, you should schedule a test to make sure.
Adrenal gland issues, such as Cushing’s disease or adrenal hyperplasia have been known to cause facial hair growth in women. Accompanying symptoms include high blood pressure, weight gain, headaches, muscle weakness, and high blood sugar. Again, you will need to undergo tests to figure out what is happening.
