A Guide to Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

    March 2014 in “ Journal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care ”
    W. Colin Duncan
    TLDR PCOS is a common hormonal disorder in women, marked by high androgen levels and often seen in 20% of women via ultrasound.
    Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) was a prevalent endocrine disorder affecting 7% of women of reproductive age, characterized by increased androgen production leading to symptoms like amenorrhea, hirsutism, and infertility. The condition was linked to insulin resistance, obesity, and heightened risks of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. The document explained the two-cell, two-gonadotrophin model of estrogen synthesis, highlighting how imbalances in luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) increased androgen production. It also discussed the role of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) in regulating androgen bioavailability, with obesity reducing SHBG levels and worsening symptoms. Management strategies included using the combined oral contraceptive pill, promoting weight loss, and using metformin to improve insulin sensitivity. The guide aimed to enhance understanding and inform management strategies for PCOS, emphasizing the importance of endometrial protection and addressing hirsutism.
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      community Sugar and Hair loss connections

      in Research/Science  41 upvotes 8 months ago
      High sugar diets may worsen hair loss by increasing 5α-reductase activity and androgen levels, especially in women with PCOS. A low sugar diet might reduce scalp DHT levels, similar to finasteride, but genetics also significantly influence hair loss.

      community Female, 30, PCOS diagnosis, MPB Norwood 2. Endo refuses to give anything other than Spironolactone. Feel like I’m at my wit’s end here.

      in Female  55 upvotes 2 years ago
      A 30-year-old female with PCOS and male pattern baldness is frustrated with her endocrinologist's recommendation of only Spironolactone and minoxidil, feeling that dutasteride, finasteride, and progesterone would be more effective. Other users suggest various online sources for treatments, warn against self-medicating due to potential risks, and recommend seeking a specialized endocrinologist or considering additional treatments like Inositol, Berberine, and dermaneedling.

      community How does hair loss and recovery work?

      in Chat  12 upvotes 1 year ago
      Hair loss varies due to genetic sensitivity to DHT and other factors. Treatments discussed include finasteride, minoxidil, RU58841, and microneedling.

      community C’est terrible - at my wits end

      in Female  450 upvotes 2 years ago
      A 29-year-old woman is experiencing gradual hair thinning since age 15, suspects Androgenic Alopecia, and has tried 5% minoxidil with little success. She has purchased various hair loss treatments including minoxidil, dutasteride, finasteride, and spironolactone, but is cautious about starting them due to potential interactions with her ADHD medication.

      community PCOS Hair Loss: What’s Helped Me (and What Didn’t)

      in Treatment  12 upvotes 5 months ago
      OP shares their experience with PCOS-related hair loss, highlighting that addressing vitamin D and ferritin deficiencies, managing hormones with spironolactone, and using gentle hair care products helped improve their condition. They advise against relying on "miracle" hair oils and emphasize the importance of medical evaluation and a combined approach to treatment.

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