PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. This condition generally affects hormones and is characterized by irregular menstrual periods, excess hair growth, acne, and infertility. In PCOS, the ovaries secrete an abnormal amount of androgens which is present more in males and in lesser quantities in females. This imbalance in hormones is what causes cystic ovaries. Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that are present in the ovary. But not everyone with PCOS develops cysts in their ovaries. It is one of the most common causes of infertility in women and it can also increase your risk for other health conditions.
Ovulation is an essential part of the menstrual cycle and women with PCOS have a problem in this process that results in cyst formation. These cysts then start secreting androgens. A woman can get PCOS at any time after puberty. Most people are diagnosed in their twenties and thirties usually around the time they try to get pregnant. A woman has a higher chance of getting PCOS if they are obese or overweight.
The exact cause of PCOS is unknown. But genetics and environmental factors play a role in triggering it. Several factors play a role in causing PCOS for example high levels of androgens, insulin resistance, and low-grade inflammation.
The symptoms of the polycystic ovarian syndrome include irregular periods, acne, obesity, pigmentation, cysts, skin tags, thinning hair, infertility, and abnormal growth of hair. There is excessive growth of facial hair and heavy growth on the arms, chest, and abdomen.
A lot of women suffer from the physical symptoms of PCOS like weight gain, acne, and excessive hair growth. Problems like excessive hair that grow on the body can be treated with treatments like laser hair reduction.
How does laser hair reduction work with PCOS?
Different light base technologies are used for hair reduction treatment. What happens during a treatment is that bright flashes of light are exposed to hair follicles. The pigment present in the hair called melanin absorbs this light which effectively destroys it. Once that happens these hair follicles are arrested in their growth cycles and the hair stops growing in that area. Multiple sessions for laser hair reduction are required because hair is in different stages of growth therefore it requires multiple sessions to reduce it to 90 percent. This is ideal for people who suffer from excess hair growth from PCOS. They can get rid of unwanted hair once and for all.