Which hormone is known to cause hirsutism in women?

The hormone that is primarily associated with hirsutism in women is androgen, with elevated levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) being a significant factor. Luteinizing hormone (LH) plays a role in regulating the menstrual cycle and stimulates the production of androgens in the ovaries. In this context, when there is an imbalance or an overproduction of androgens, it can lead to hirsutism, which is characterized by excessive hair growth in areas typically more common for males.

Estrogen and progesterone are primarily involved in the regulation of the female reproductive system and do not directly cause hirsutism. Thyroxine is a thyroid hormone and is more related to metabolic processes rather than hair growth regulation.

The connection between LH and hirsutism lies in its influence on androgen production, making it a relevant factor in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), where hirsutism is a common symptom due to elevated androgen levels.