A woman living with hirsutism, Dora Semanu, has shared the emotional journey behind her decision to stop shaving her facial hair, saying she chose to embrace her appearance rather than hide it.
Hirsutism is a medical condition that causes women to grow excessive, coarse hair in areas where men typically have hair, such as the face, chest, back and chin. The condition is often linked to hormonal imbalances, including elevated androgen levels, though it can also have genetic or other medical causes.
Speaking during an interview with BBC Pidgin, Semanu said she has faced years of public scrutiny, with strangers frequently staring at her, whispering, taking photos without her consent and making hurtful comments about her appearance.
Rather than allowing the criticism to define her, she said she made a conscious decision to stop shaving her facial hair and embrace her unique look.
“I want to look different,” she explained, adding that accepting herself has helped her regain confidence despite society’s judgment.
Semanu also encouraged people to show empathy toward individuals living with visible medical conditions, stressing that everyone deserves respect regardless of their appearance.
Her story has sparked conversations online about body acceptance, self-confidence and the need to end discrimination against people with conditions that affect their physical appearance.

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