Print Print
CKS is no longer commissioned by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). NICE remains committed to providing a replacement service for CKS and is currently reviewing its options. In the meantime, although CKS content is now not being maintained, it still remains relevant and will continue to be made available. CKS content was generated under a programme of topic creation and update. To check if the topic you are viewing is current or out of date, please refer to the topic publication details by clicking on the 'How up-to-date is this topic?' link in the left hand menu on individual topic pages.

Hirsutism - Management
When should I refer a woman with hirsutism?

  • Refer the woman, if:
    • Hair growth is of recent onset and rapid progression, there are signs of virilization, hirsutism is particularly severe, or an abdominal or pelvic mass is detected.
    • There are clinical features suggestive of Cushing's syndrome (such as weight gain in the face [moon face], neck region, upper back, and torso; stretch marks; easy bruising; proximal muscle weakness).
    • Serum total testosterone concentration is more than 5 nanomol/L.
    • Hair growth worsens despite treatment.
    • Treatment has not been effective after 6–12 months.

© NHS Institute for Innovation and Improvement