Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects millions of women in the United States, and PCOS often comes with uncomfortable symptoms. PCOS is caused by cyst development on the ovaries, and it can disrupt normal hormone activity by causing women to experience greater androgen production. Since androgen is traditionally referred to as the male sex hormone, some of the side effects of PCOS can present as conditions that normally affect men, including excessive body hair growth.

How is Excessive Hair Growth Treated?

Women with PCOS who experience excessive hair growth, also known as hirsutism, may be instructed by their doctors to make changes to their diet and exercise routines. Treating hirsutism isn’t as simple as shaving excessive hair since the root of the problem lies within hormone production. In some cases, medications like Aldactone (spironolactone) may be prescribed to help.

What is Aldactone?

Aldactone is a diuretic that is often prescribed to help with high blood pressure and fluid retention; however, an Aldactone medication prescription may be written for women who experience excessive body hair growth resulting from a diagnosis of PCOS. When used in combination with lifestyle changes, Aldactone may reduce excessive body hair growth in women suffering from PCOS.

How Long Will You Need to Take Aldactone for PCOS?

The length and frequency of an Aldactone medication prescription will depend on your unique needs. Some women may need to take Aldactone for life since PCOS is a chronic condition with no definitive cure.

Symptom management is usually the goal of PCOS treatment, and Aldactone plays a role in this for many women. If you only experience symptoms during a flare-up, your use of Aldactone to treat excessive body hair growth may be limited to only as needed. Your doctor can tell you for certain what to expect if you begin taking Aldactone.

Disclaimer: Only your doctor can help you determine if Aldactone is right for you. Always consult with your physician before starting or stopping any prescription or over-the-counter medication or supplement.

Author Resource:-

Alester Brown is a certified PCOS specialist. She advises people on personalized women’s healthcare and skin treatment at home. You can find her thoughts at PCOD treatment blog.