Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is significantly more prevalent among South Asian women, with rates estimated between 18-25%, compared to the global average of 6-10%. Between 1990 and 2021, both the prevalence and DALY rates of PCOS in South Asia demonstrated a consistent upward trend.
Insulin resistance is more common in South Asians than in other ethnic groups, even when we are not overweight. Not only does it make managing weight harder, it also worsens other symptoms of PCOS like high androgen levels, leading to aforementioned issues like excessive hair growth and acne.
Excess androgens (male hormone) contribute to symptoms like excessive body hair, acne and irregular periods. The THADA gene, meanwhile, is involved in insulin production and energy regulation. Variations in this gene can disrupt how the body processes insulin, increasing insulin resistance, which is a key factor in the development of PCOS.
Why is this important to us as south Asian women?
Hirsutism, or excess facial hair growth (also on other parts of the body such as stomach, thighs etc.), can be distressing for those with PCOS.
Laser hair removal and light therapies offer a potential solution to reduce unwanted hair.
What we can do? – Consider the following information when exploring laser hair reduction for PCOS
- Consult your healthcare professional about mechanical laser or light therapies for your symptoms.
- Choose experienced providers for safe and effective treatment.
- Note that PCOS may require more laser sessions than other excessive hair growth types.
- Discuss combining laser treatment with medications, like contraceptive pills with or without anti-androgen medications
Understanding the options and their effectiveness can help you make informed decisions about managing excessive hair growth.
- Mechanical laser and light therapies can reduce facial hair growth (hirsutism) and improve related symptoms like depression, anxiety, and quality of life in PCOS.
- Those with PCOS may need more laser sessions than other hirsutism types for effective hair reduction.
- Laser treatment may be used with certain medications for persistent hair growth.
