Excessive hair growth

Increased hair growth may be normal variation, but coarse dark hairs in a male pattern in women are called hirsutism and may result from increased androgen activity. Rapid change with a deepening voice needs prompt assessment.

• Coarse dark hairs on the chin, upper lip, chest, lower abdomen, back or thighs.
• Irregular or absent periods and sometimes difficulty getting pregnant.
• Choose shaving, trimming, plucking, waxing or depilatory cream according to your skin's reaction; shaving does not make hair thicker.
• Test a hair-removal product on a small area of skin first and do not use it on irritated skin.
• Make an appointment for new troublesome hair growth, irregular periods, acne or difficulty getting pregnant.
• For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.