Understanding the causes and management of hirsutism

Watts, Jane RGN, ENB

Jane Watts, RGN, ENB 393, is dermatology nurse practitioner, Department of Dermatology, Whipps Cross University Hospital, London.

This article has been double-blind peer-reviewed.

For related articles on this subject and links to relevant websites see www.nursingtimes.net

Nursing Times 102(8):p 26-28, February 21, 2006.

Watts, J. (2006) Understanding the causes and management of hirsutism. Nursing Times; 102: 8, 26-28.

Female hirsutism is an embarrassing condition that threatens both a woman's perception of her femininity and her self-esteem. There are various causes of excessive facial hair in women, the most common being polycystic ovary syndrome. Periods of hormonal flux such as pregnancy and the menopause can exacerbate the condition.