Hirsutism: What is hirsutism?

Hirsutism is characterised by excess body hair in a typically male distribution. The hair is pigmented and thick. It may be particularly obvious when it is on the moustache or beard areas. The other common sites are the chest, abdomen, thighs and back. Pubic hair growth may extend upward from the usual bikini-line to the middle of the abdomen (umbilicus) (Figure 8.1). For a woman to be hirsute is understandably embarassing.

Figure 8.1 Hirsutism - Excess Hair Distribution

Women's Health

Please click on the required question.

1 What is hirsutism?
2 What is virilism?
3 What makes a hair?
4 I think that I have an excess of body hair. Is this a common complaint?
5 How can the severity of hirsutism be evaluated?
6 What are the effects of increased androgen levels on the skin and hair?
7 What are the effects of increased androgen levels in women?
8 What are the sources of androgen dependent hirsutism?
9 How can the cause of my hirsutism or virilism be determined?
10 Is it always possible to determine the cause of hirsutism?
11 What cosmetic treatments are available to treat my hirsutism?
12 If I lose weight, would my hirsutism improve?
13 What medical treatments are available for my hirsutism?
14 How could a combined oral contraceptive pill reduce my hirsutism.
15 What is cyproterone acetate?
16 What surgical treatments are available for my hirsutism and virilism?
17 Support Groups.
Hirsutism

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This is the personal website of David A Viniker MD FRCOG, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Whipps Cross University Hospital, London - Specialist Interests - Reproductive Medicine including Infertility, PCOS, PMS, Menopause and HRT.

I do hope that you find the answers to your women's health questions in the patient information and medical advice provided.