Are you suffering from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and struggling with excess body hair? You are not alone! PCOS is very common and affects 1 in 10 women. It is caused by an imbalance of hormones in the body. PCOS symptoms include irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and excess hair growth in areas such as the face, chest, and pubic region.
The good news is that there are various treatments available for PCOS. Addressing the underlying hormonal imbalance with medications can help manage its symptoms. Lifestyle changes like eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly also help. Alongside, hair removal methods can also help manage excess hair growth due to PCOS. Here, we discuss the common causes of PCOS, tests to diagnose it, and the symptoms and treatments of PCOS.
Common causes of PCOS
PCOS is a hormonal disorder caused by an excess of insulin and androgens in the body. Androgens are male hormones that are also found in women. Women with PCOS produce too much androgen, which can lead to various PCOS symptoms, including excess hair growth. Insulin helps to regulate blood sugar.
Symptoms of PCOS
PCOS symptoms can differ among women, but some of the typical ones are:
- Irregular periods or no periods at all
- Excess hair growth on the face, chest, and pubic area
- Acne
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Mood changes, including depression and anxiety
- Insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes
Tests to diagnose PCOS
To check if a woman has PCOS, her doctor will perform a physical examination, which includes a pelvic examination to see if there are cysts on the ovaries. Additionally, the doctor will ask about the patient's medical history and any symptoms she may be experiencing.
Blood tests and an ultrasound may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis. These tests help the doctor see if the patient has an imbalance of hormones in her body, which is a common characteristic of PCOS. By doing these tests, the doctor can create a treatment plan that is tailored to the patient's specific needs.
Treatments for PCOS and excessive body hair
The treatment for PCOS depends on the severity of the symptoms and the individual needs of the patient. Some of the treatments are:
Medications
For PCOS, the best treatment is medications. There are different medicines, like birth control pills, metformin, and spironolactone to treat PCOS symptoms, including PCOS hair growth Birth control pills help control the menstrual cycle and decrease excess hair growth. Metformin is a medication used for diabetes but can also help manage insulin levels in women with PCOS. Spironolactone is a medicine that can reduce excess hair growth. These medications should be taken only after consulting your doctor.
Lifestyle Changes
You can improve PCOS symptoms by making lifestyle changes like eating healthy food, exercising regularly, and keeping a healthy weight. These changes can help to control insulin levels and decrease excessive hair growth.
Hair Removal Methods
Hair removal methods for excess PCOS hair growth include:
- Shaving
- Waxing
- Depilatory creams
- Laser hair removal
Women with PCOS should discuss all available options with their doctor to decide which treatments will work best for them. A combination of treatments, including medication, lifestyle changes, and hair removal methods, may be necessary to manage the symptoms effectively.
Laser hair removal
Laser hair removal is a more permanent solution for excess PCOS hair growth. In this method, high-heat lasers are directed towards the pigment in the hair follicles that absorb the laser, get heated up and are destroyed in the process. This stops or prevents new hair growth. But, it is important to note that laser hair removal may need multiple sessions before the desired results become visible.
Laser hair removal often lasts many months, and in some cases, may last for years. But, when hair returns, it is finer and lighter. Individuals, however, must remember that laser hair removal does not ensure complete hair eradication. It results in a 70 to 80% reduction in hair growth
Furthermore, although this procedure is harmless, a few individuals can experience skin redness and irritation. However, this normally goes away within a few hours. In patients with darker skin tones, this therapy may also result in transient pigment alterations. Regardless, this must be conducted only by experts, so one must visit reliable clinics such as UnCover, for an effective solution.
How much does laser hair removal cost at UnCover?
UnCover offers an excellent laser hair removal service for body hair. There are several packages to choose from. The cost of laser hair removal may range from Rs 1800 per session for face parts, Rs 3500 per session for underarms, to Rs 8500 for arms and legs. There are deals on the prices if you book 3 or 6 sessions at a time or go for a package of unlimited free sessions for a year.
To Sum It Up
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that can cause excess hair growth on the body, including the pubic area. The severity of the symptoms and the individual needs of the patient determine the best treatment for PCOS. Proper diagnosis and treatment of PCOS with medications can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
Making lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight can also help manage symptoms. It's essential to consult a healthcare provider if you are experiencing PCOS symptoms, including excess hair growth in the pubic area to develop a personalised treatment plan.
Hair removal methods such as shaving, waxing, and depilatory creams can be used to manage excess hair growth due to PCOS. Laser hair removal is a more permanent and one of the best solutions to remove PCOS hair.
CTA: UnCover provides an extensive range of laser hair removal treatments with promising results. Click here to book your appointment now at UnCover and say goodbye to unnecessary hair.
