13/07/2025
Things you should know...
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder with multiple contributing factors. While the exact cause is not fully understood, the root causes of PCOS are believed to involve a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Here are the primary root causes:
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1. Insulin Resistance
Description: The body's cells become less responsive to insulin, causing the pancreas to produce more insulin to compensate.
Effect: High insulin levels can lead to increased androgen (male hormone) production by the ovaries, contributing to symptoms like irregular periods, acne, and excess hair growth.
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2. Hormonal Imbalance
Elevated Androgens: Women with PCOS often have higher-than-normal levels of androgens (like testosterone), which interfere with normal ovulation.
Low Progesterone: Infrequent ovulation results in low progesterone levels, leading to irregular or absent menstrual cycles.
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3. Chronic Low-Grade Inflammation
Description: Many women with PCOS have markers of systemic inflammation.
Effect: Inflammation may contribute to increased androgen production and worsen insulin resistance.
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4. Genetics
Family History: PCOS tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition.
Heritability: Multiple genes related to insulin signaling, androgen production, and inflammation may be involved.
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5. Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
Diet and Physical Activity: Poor diet and sedentary lifestyle can exacerbate insulin resistance and obesity, which in turn worsen PCOS symptoms.
Endocrine Disruptors: Exposure to chemicals like BPA may affect hormone regulation and contribute to PCOS risk.
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6. Obesity (Contributing Factor, Not a Cause)
While not a root cause, obesity can exacerbate insulin resistance and hormonal imbalance, making symptoms more severe.
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Summary of Root Causes:
Cause Mechanism
Insulin Resistance Leads to high insulin and androgen levels
Hormonal Imbalance Disrupts ovulation and menstruation
Inflammation Promotes androgen production
Genetic Factors Inherited predisposition
Lifestyle/Environment Diet, activity, and chemical exposures contribute