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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

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Causes of PCOS

The cause of PCOS ((Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)) is unknown.

Most researchers think that more than one factor could play a role in developing PCOS. Genes are thought to be one factor. Most researchers think that PCOS runs in families. Women with PCOS tend to have a mother or sister with PCOS. Still, there is no proof that PCOS is inherited.

Researchers also think insulin could be linked to PCOS.

Insulin is a hormone that controls the change of sugar, starches, and other food into energy for the body to use or store. For many women with PCOS, their bodies have problems using insulin so that too much insulin is in the body. Excess insulin appears to increase production of androgen. This hormone is made in fat cells, the ovaries, and the adrenal gland. Levels of androgen that are higher than normal can lead to acne, excessive hair growth, weight gain, and problems with ovulation.

References:
April 2007
www.4woman.gov/
Reviewed By: Louis V. DePaolo, Ph.D.
Chief, Reproductive Sciences Branch
Center for Population Research
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development