Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects approximately 5 to 10% of women aged 12 to 45. It is an endocrine (hormonal) disorder that can affect fertility, but it has lots of other side effects and symptoms too.
The following are the main symptoms of PCOS:
• Irregular menstruation or missing periods
• Hyperandrogenism – this means that women with condition generally have increased levels of male hormones such as androstenedione and testosterone
• Abnormal weight gain
• Excess body hair (hirstutism)
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Oily skin or acne
Along with these symptoms, women with PCOS may also experience hair loss. This can vary from thinning hair to bald patches and mass shedding.
This symptom is likely to be caused by a female hair loss condition called telogen effluvium, in which an increased number of hairs enter the resting (telogen) phase and fall out. Hairs go through three stages – anagen (growth), catagen (transitional) and telogen (resting) – and at different times.
In women with PCOS, telogen effluvium is likely to be triggered by the hormonal changes taking place in the body, as well as possible thyroid problems.
If you think you may be suffering from PCOS and telogen effluvium, you should see your doctor or a trichologist (hair loss specialist) as soon as possible for a diagnosis.