Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is known to cause a number of undesirable symptoms due to an increased level of androgens – or male hormones. Some of these symptoms include obesity and acne. Probably one of the most embarrassing, as well as one of the most frustrating, is facial hair. Here are some treatment options which are available to women who suffer from facial hair that is caused by PCOS.
Medications to Reduce Hair Growth
Birth control pills are generally recommended to women who are being affected by Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. The hormones in birth control pills can help regulate a woman’s hormones. Women who have PCOS should talk to their doctors about using a birth control pill which contains higher levels of estrogen, a female hormone. The estrogen may help reduce the effects of the androgens.
Women who suffer from a significant amount of facial hair due to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome also may want to talk to their doctors about going on anti-androgens or, to be specific, Aldactone. While anti-androgens are primarily used to lower blood pressure levels, research has shown that they can also help reduce the effect that male hormones has on women, according to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
Another type of medication which has shown to prevent facial hair by reducing the impact of male hormones is Finasteride, otherwise known as Propecia. Interestingly, this is a medication which is used to reverse hair loss.
Note that both anti-androgens and Finasteride should be avoided during pregnancy. It is also important to talk a doctor about how these drugs may interact with other medications.
Alternative Options for Reducing Facial Hair
Some women may be looking for other options aside from birth control pills, anti-androgens or Finasteride when trying to reduce facial hair caused by PCOS. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services recommends several other options for preventing or reducing facial hair.
Laser hair removal can be used to reduce facial hair. Keep in mind that that it is important to only seek the services of a licensed and experienced professional. Some people may not be candidates for laser hair removal. Vaniqa, which is a topical medication, can also be used to reduce facial hair. It is only available for use with a prescription from a dermatologist. Vaniqa is known to be very effective. A hormonal treatment can also be used to help prevent new hair from growing.
Before deciding how to treat facial hair growth caused by Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, it is important to explore every option with a doctor. While some methods may work for some, others may benefit from others. The most important thing to keep in mind is that women who suffer from facial hair due to PCOS do not need to worry about waxing, plucking or shaving it. There are effective options out there.
Source:
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, “Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).”
