Health-Related Quality of Life Among Young Females with Hirsutism: A Cross-Sectional study using the WHOQOL-BREF

Abstract

Hirsutism, characterised by excessive androgen-dependent terminal hair growth, is not life-threatening but can substantially affect body image, self-esteem and social functioning in young women, making its impact on quality of life (QOL) an important area of nursing research. Objective: To assess the quality of life of young females with hirsutism using the WHOQOL-BREF scale. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 young females (18–24 years) with hirsutism at a college in Thrissur, Kerala, selected by convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured demographic/clinical proforma and the WHOQOL-BREF instrument, which measures QOL across physical, psychological, social and environmental domains. Data were summarised using frequencies and percentages.
Results: Most participants were 21 years old (30%); 63% had normal BMI and 37% were overweight. Menstrual irregularity was reported by 54.5% and premenstrual symptoms by 52%. Overall QOL was rated neither poor nor good by 43% and poor by 36%; health satisfaction was neutral in 41% and poor in 38%. Across domains, participants reported low-to-moderate functioning, with pronounced dissatisfaction in sleep, daily activity, work capacity, self-image, and personal relationships; 66% reported negative feelings (anxiety, low mood, despair) “quite often” or more. Conclusion: Hirsutism exerts a substantial negative effect on QOL among young females, particularly in the psychological and social domains, underscoring the need for holistic, psychosocially oriented management rather than cosmetic treatment alone.