Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder and is the name given to a condition in which women with polycystic ovaries also have one or more additional symptoms. It was first 'discovered' by Doctors Stein and Leventhal in 1935, so for many years it was known as the Stein-Leventhal Syndrome.
The term polycystic ovaries describes ovaries that contain many small cysts (about twice as many as in normal ovaries), usually no bigger than 8mm each, located just below the surface of the ovaries. These cysts are egg-containing follicules that have not developed properly due to a number of hormonal abnormalities.
It should be noted that not all women with PCOS have polycystic ovaries, nor do all women with ovarian cysts have PCOS.
How common is it and who does it affect?
PCOS affects millions of women in the UK and worldwide.
About 20% of women in the UK has polycystic ovaries, and approximately 5 to 10% of women of reproductive age (12-45 years old) has PCOS to some degree.
Many women with PCOS are overweight or obese, and have an acquired form of PCOS. They may have excessive body hair and hair loss from the head.
PCOS also tends to run in families. If you have PCOS but are not overweight, you probably have a history of PCOS in your family.
What are the causes of PCOS?
The causes are not truly known, however insulin resistance, diabetes and obesity are strongly linked with PCOS. Dietary trans fats (which have been implicated as a cause of insulin resistance, Type 2 diabetes and obesity) are hence also likely to be a cause of PCOS.
Women with PCOS may also have a family history of diabetes and high cholesterol.
The symptoms of PCOS are triggered by imbalances in some, or all, of the hormones that control the menstrual cycle. These imbalances may include above normal levels of luteinising hormone (LH), of androgens and of oestrogen, and below normal levels of follicule stimulating hormone (FSH) and progesterone.
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
The symptoms usually occur in a woman's late teens or early 20's and can vary from mild to severe. The first sign for some may be menstrual problems or the inability to conceive. If the syndrome is not properly managed it can lead to additional health problems later in life.
The principal features are:
- weight gain and/or obesity;
- irregular or light periods;
- irregular ovulation, or no ovulation at all;
- amenorrhea (failure to start periods);
- fertility problems;
- oily skin, acne;
- excessive hair growth (hirsutism);
- thinning hair and hair loss;
- depression or mood changes
What treatments are available?
It is important to note that although the symptoms of PCOS are treatable, it cannot be cured. If you suspect that you have PCOS you should refer to your GP for diagnosis. Your GP will discuss with you your symptoms, possibly refer you for an ultrasound scan (to determine the prescence of polycystic ovaries) and run a series of blood tests to determine your hormone, insulin, glucose and cholesterol levels. You may be referred to a Specialist such as a gynaecologist or an endocrinologist. Your Specialist and/or GP will then be able to best advise you on how to manage your symptoms and offer any lifestyle advice (eg losing weight), any necessary medication and whether surgery is necessary.
How can Zap Laser Clinic help you?
We effectively treat women of all ages with excessive or unwanted hair with either IPL or Laser, depending on Skin Type. The treatment of sideburns, necks, cheeks, chins, lips, breasts, abdomens and backs are a common request from many women, especially from those with a hormonal imbalance or PCOS. By treating unwanted facial hair, this can have a positive knock-on effect for those women who also suffer from acne in addition to the increase in confidence and self-esteem.
We also offer Glycolic Peels, Murad Blemish Facials and Microdermabrasion for the treatment of acne and/or scarring for the face, back and chest areas.
For clients with PCOS and have documented proof (eg letter from GP or Specialist) we offer 10% discount off our Laser Hair Removal treatments.
