PCOS. No it’s not the name of a new Corona Virus strain. Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a hormonal condition that affects 1 in 10 women in the UK. (We’re still not sure why that advert of the cute puppy makes us cry though…)
Whilst symptoms varying from person to person, making it a condition that often goes undiagnosed, the imbalance of hormones in a woman’s body can result in irregular periods, infertility, polycystic ovaries and more. Symptoms commonly reported are:
- Irregular periods
- Difficulty conceiving
- Excess facial or body hair (Hirsutism)
- Unexplained weight gain
- Hormonal/stubborn acne or oily skin
- Thinning hair or hair loss from the head
But don’t worry, we’re not saying that you’re doomed to be a hormone-crazed werewolf howling at the moon. Advancements in modern medicine means that PCOS, and the resulting symptoms, can be very easily managed.
Fertility medications can assist with falling pregnant, hormone treatments and supplements can help regulate your hormones and menstrual cycles. Changes in diet can also have a huge impact on weight control and hormone balance.
As for the effects on your skin and hair, we’ve got you boo. There are various skincare products on the market that can get your acne or oily skin under control. For example, a morning routine of a salicylic acid-based cleanser followed by an alcohol-free toner, water based or gel-based moisturizer and finally a water-based or gel-based sunscreen might be best suited to your skin. An aesthetician or dermatologist will be able to advice you as to which products and skincare routines are most suitable for you.
Whilst we are all huge fans of The Greatest Showman because who doesn’t love fantastic music and a little Hugh Jackman, we might not all want to be the bearded lady. If you look at that moustache or chest hair and think that actually this isn’t me, you’re in luck. Experts recommend not plucking unwanted hairs but rather opting for laser hair removal as a more permanent option.
If you fall on the other side of the spectrum, no need to tear out what little hair you have left. Platelet- Rich Plasma therapy (PRP) is an in-clinic treatment that has incredible results for promoting hair growth. You’ll be waving those locks like a Pantene model before you know it!
At the end of the day, it is important to remember that all bodies are good bodies and we need to love and nurture them, but if something like your resulting PCOS symptoms are causing you frustration, a loss of confidence or difficulty in your day to day life, you can speak up and get those things sorted. Remember, PCOS is a life-long condition, and much like other conditions such as diabetes, sometimes wee need a little help from modern medicine to live our best lives.
It’s 2022 ladies, there is no need to not love who you are and the body you are in, whatever that looks like to you, smooth-lasered legs or grown-out armpits.
For those of you who prefer the former however, we would be privileged to offer you half price on all laser hair removal* to help you on your journey to becoming the gorgeously confident woman you want to be.
* (with proof of PCOS diagnosis via the NHS app)
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If you believe you might have PCOS, you can speak to your GP about your concerns and potential symptoms.
