The Investigation and Management of the Hirsute Woman

    July 2006 in “ Reviews in gynaecological and perinatal practice ”
    Nadia Soliman, Peter G. Wardle
    TLDR The document concludes that hirsutism in women, often caused by PCOS, requires systematic evaluation and can be treated with medications, mechanical removal, or cosmetic methods, with weight loss also being beneficial.
    Hirsutism in women, characterized by male-pattern coarse hair growth, significantly impacts psychological well-being and quality of life. Affecting 5%-15% of women, it is often underdiagnosed. The most common cause is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), accounting for nearly 90% of cases. Effective management involves understanding hair growth physiology and androgen metabolism, with treatments typically combining androgen suppression, antiandrogens, and mechanical hair removal. Long-term psychological support may be necessary for some patients. Antiandrogens like finasteride, combined with oral contraceptives, have shown good control in most cases.
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