The most common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS affects approximately one in every ten women in this age group, and it affects more women in some high-risk groups, such as Indigenous, Asian, North African, and Caucasian European women.
What causes PCOS?
Although the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, there appears to be linked with family history and genetics; hormones that are increased during our development in the womb before birth; and lifestyle or environment.
Family History
Because no single gene has been identified as the cause of PCOS, the link is likely to be complex and involve multiple genes.
Women with PCOS are 50% more likely to have a female immediate relative with PCOS (mother, aunt, sister, or daughter). Type 2 diabetes is also prevalent in PCOS families.
Hormone Levels
The symptoms and
signs of PCOS are caused by an imbalance in the body of the hormones insulin and androgens (male-type hormones such as testosterone).
One of insulin's functions in the body is to keep blood glucose (sugar or energy) levels from rising too high after eating. It accomplishes this by 'unlocking' the body's cells and allowing glucose to enter the cells from the blood. This reduces the amount of glucose in the blood.
Insulin Resistance
Insulin resistance affects approximately 85% of all PCOS women. Insulin resistance occurs when your body's cells stop responding normally to insulin and instead block glucose entry into the cells. This means that your body is not effectively using the available insulin to help keep your glucose levels stable.
Because insulin isn't working properly, the body responds by producing more insulin. Higher insulin levels stimulate the ovaries production of androgens such as testosterone.
Insulin resistance is caused in part by lifestyle factors such as obesity, poor diet, and physical inactivity. However, insulin resistance can be caused by genetic factors and can affect women of all weights. Insulin resistance is found in approximately 95% of women with PCOS who are overweight and approximately 75% of those who are lean.
Insulin resistance plays a significant role in PCOS symptoms, so it is critical to understand what it is. However, it is also important to understand that there are ways to reduce it.
Regular physical activity and healthy eating are critical in managing and reducing insulin resistance, and can significantly improve PCOS symptoms.
Androgens
Androgens, also known as "male hormones," are naturally present in both men and women, but at much lower levels in women. All women produce trace amounts of androgens in body tissues, including the ovaries and adrenal glands. Increased androgen levels in women with PCOS cause symptoms such as excessive body hair growth, scalp hair loss, and acne. They also contribute to symptoms such as irregular periods and ovulation.
Weight and lifestyle
PCOS can affect both thin and overweight women. Women with PCOS, on the other hand, are more likely to be overweight or obese.
Being overweight worsens insulin resistance, which is thought to play a role in the development of PCOS and its symptoms. Excess weight raises both of the
hormones that cause PCOS symptoms.
The good news is that a healthy lifestyle consisting of nutritious foods and physical activity can aid in the treatment of PCOS and alleviate its symptoms.
There is help available to assist you in making lifestyle changes that will benefit your overall health, including many PCOS symptoms.
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