Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects about 10 million women worldwide. About 10% of all childbearing-aged women have been diagnosed with PCOS. The condition is caused by hormonal imbalances that affect how the body produces and processes androgens, insulin, and progesterone. The effects of PCOS can cause a variety of serious and superficial issues, including hair thinning and hair loss.
Hormones Affected by PCOS
PCOS alters the levels of the following hormones:
- Androgens – Androgens are hormones typically associated with male biology. Though both women and men produce androgens, women with PCOS typically overproduce androgens, which can disrupt normal ovulatory and menstrual processes.
- Insulin – Many women with PCOS are somewhat insulin resistant. Insulin is a hormone that allows bodies to absorb and use blood sugar as energy. When bodies are unable to absorb blood sugar they end up producing even more insulin, which triggers the production of more androgens.
- Progesterone – Progesterone helps regulate uterus health. Women with PCOS typically lack enough progesterone to regulate their menstrual cycle.
These disrupted hormone levels can create both superficial and serious issues.
PCOS Symptoms
Those who may have PCOS can experience a variety of symptoms including:
- Period irregularities – Many women with PCOS have irregular periods, and sometimes no periods at all.
- Pain – Severe pelvic pain that can, but doesn’t always, accompany menstruation.
- Hirsutism – Unwanted hair growth often on the face, chin, and neck.
- Acne – Hormonal irregularities can easily cause breakouts.
- Weight gain – Many women with PCOS have a difficult time losing weight.
- Headaches – Hormonal imbalances can trigger intense headaches.
- Thinning hair – Affects hair on the scalp. This symptom is usually experienced by middle-aged women
If you are experiencing these symptoms, talk to your doctor about the possibility of PCOS.
Solutions for PCOS and Hair Loss
Each case of PCOS is different, so if you have PCOS, you and your doctor will need to work together to find the solution that is right for you. The Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Awareness Association provides a list of possible treatments that doctors may recommend, depending on your case.
For women who experience hair loss due to PCOS, regulation methods may not always help you regrow hair that has thinned. Scalp micropigmentation could help reverse the appearance of hair loss and help your hair look full again. The team at Hairline Ink can discuss options with you for a permanent solution to the appearance of hair loss. We offer Scalp Micropigmentation in over 50 US cities. Call or text us today at 833-HAIR-INK (833-424-7465) to schedule an appointment, learn about our pricing, or get a free quote!
