Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

PCOS stands for ‘Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome’. It is a condition which affects 10% of the female population. It affects the menstrual cycle, (and therefore the ability to have children) and can also affect women’s appearance in the form of weight gain and excessive hair growth, particularly on the face. Most women who have PCOS tend to have cysts on their ovaries which can interfere with ovulation.

A symptom of PCOS is the overproduction of testosterone in the female body. This can lead to excessive hair growth in what we call ‘androgenous’ areas, ie areas where men would normally have hair. Women can therefore find they are producing excess hair on face, chest and stomach, as well as their arms. This is naturally very distressing but can be permanently removed or managed with laser hair removal or electrolysis

PCOS can also cause breakouts of acne due to hormone changes in the body. As with excessive hair growth, skin complaints can be managed and improved with laser acne treatment and glycolic peels.