Hirsutism. A practical approach to improving physical and mental well-being.

The stigma and embarrassment of hirsutism and the lack of public knowledge regarding effective therapy prevent some women from seeking treatment. Heightened physician awareness and a simple, practical approach to the hirsute patient allow adequate assessment and therapeutic recommendations. Decreased hair growth, a return to normal menstrual cycling, and lowered risk of endometrial cancer can be achieved by pharmacologic therapy with few serious side effects. Treatment has a significant effect on both physical and mental well-being and can produce a remarkable change in a patient who has suffered embarrassment for many years.