WHAT CAUSES PCOS ?

What Causes PCOS? Understanding This Common Hormonal Disorder

As a woman, you may have heard of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - a hormonal disorder that affects up to 1 in 8 women of reproductive age. If you've been diagnosed with PCOS, you're not alone. But what exactly causes this condition, and why does it affect so many women? Let's dive in and explore the potential causes of PCOS.

### Genetics

One of the primary factors contributing to PCOS is genetics. If your mother or sister has PCOS, your risk of developing the condition increases significantly. Researchers believe that certain genes may make some women more susceptible to the hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS. However, the exact genetic link is still being studied.

### Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance is another key player in the development of PCOS. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body use glucose (sugar) for energy. When you're insulin resistant, your cells don't respond well to insulin, causing your pancreas to produce more to keep up. This excess insulin can stimulate your ovaries to produce more male hormones called androgens.

### Inflammation

Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can contribute to PCOS. Studies suggest that inflammation may disrupt normal ovarian function and increase androgen production. Factors like obesity, poor diet, and stress can all contribute to inflammation in the body.

### Lifestyle Choices

While you can't control your genetics or prevent insulin resistance, there are some lifestyle choices you can make to manage your PCOS symptoms. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce insulin resistance and inflammation. Stress management techniques, such as yoga or meditation, may also help.

If you've been diagnosed with PCOS, don't lose hope. With proper management and support from your healthcare team, you can take control of your symptoms and live a healthy, fulfilling life. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and there are resources and communities available to help you navigate the challenges of PCOS.