Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

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OVERVIEW

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition characterised by:

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• High levels of male hormone in the body

• Irregular Menstrual Cycle (including having no periods at all)

• Follicles in the Ovaries

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Hormonal imbalances such as high levels of insulin and androgens can lead to many aesthetic problems for the woman affected including:

• Weight Gain

• Oily Skin

• Acne

• Hair on the Chin/ Lip and Neck

• Excessive Hair on other areas of the body

• Hydradenitis Suppurativa 

• Dark marks under the armpits

• Thinning Scalp Hair

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As well as this, women with PCOS find it difficult to conceive and are risk for other problems throughout life such as diabetes and high cholesterol.

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HOW TO MANAGE PCOS

• With Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, excess fat in the body can lead to increased production of androgens (male hormones). These male hormones are responsible for excess oil on the skin which causes acne and also excess hair on the face. Losing weight can therefore help to reduce this hormonal imbalance and prevent the signs of excess male hormones in the body.Adopt a skin care routine targeted to oil-prone skin. Try using retinoids and exfoliating to remove the dead skin cells from the surface of your skin (and check out the page on acne for more skincare information).

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• Hair on the face can be removed manual with waxing, but this is not a long-term solution and can lead to ingrown hairs.

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• Topical Eflornithine is effective in preventing from growing however once you stop using this, hair begins to growth back.

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• The Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill (Yasmin and Dianette) have anti-androgen properties and it is worth discussing with your GP as to whether any of these treatments are appropriate for you.

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