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Hirsutism in young women
Author(s) -
Swingler Rebecca,
Awala Alero,
Gordon Uma
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
the obstetrician and gynaecologist
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1744-4667
pISSN - 1467-2561
DOI - 10.1576/toag.11.2.101.27483
Subject(s) - hirsutism , polycystic ovary , medicine , gynecology , obstetrics and gynaecology , finasteride , endocrine system , hormone , endocrinology , diabetes mellitus , pregnancy , cancer , prostate , insulin resistance , biology , genetics
• Hirsutism is a distressing condition affecting 5–15% of women. • It is usually associated with an underlying endocrine disorder: in 70–80% of women with hirsutism this is polycystic ovary syndrome. • Management depends upon the cause but combines lifestyle changes and cosmetic, physical and medical treatments. • It takes 9–12 months for hormonal treatments to take their maximum effect.Learning objectives:• To learn how to assess women with hirsutism. • To understand common and less common aetiologies. • To be able to take a sensitive and sensible approach to management.Ethical issues:• To what extent should drugs not yet approved for use in women with hirsutism be used as a treatment for this condition? • What is the role of the gynaecologist in ensuring women on drugs such as finasteride are using effective contraception?Please cite this article as: Swingler R, Awala A, Gordon U. Hirsutism in young women. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2009;11:101–107.