We’ve shared about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome over the past weeks. You may be wondering, “Is PCOS affecting me?” How do you know what symptoms come with PCOS? As many as 1 out of 10 women who are of childbearing age suffer from PCOS, many unaware of its potentially devastating effect. (Women’s Health) Polycystic Ovary Syndrome causes benign growths (“cysts”) to develop on ovaries and leads to a variety of more serious health conditions, including infertility, certain forms of cancer, and other risks. The most pressing question remains, “What causes PCOS?”
Family genetics and PCOS
Unfortunately, there’s no determined exact cause of PCOS, but it’s believed that hereditary genetics and imbalanced hormones levels, namely estrogen and progesterone, that are the main contributors. If your mother, maternal grandmother, or sister had PCOS, you may be susceptible to developing it as well. Ongoing research is exploring the possibility that certain genes may be connected to PCOS.
Androgen and PCOS
Another theory is that an overproduction of androgen, a primarily male sex hormone that women also produce, may be a leading cause of PCOS. Women who suffer from PCOS also produce an above-average level of androgen. (Healthline)
Low-grade inflammation and PCOS
Low-grade inflammation may also be a contributing factor to developing PCOS. Our bodies create more white blood cells to help fight off infections. We call this response “inflammation” and it’s a very necessary response to keep our bodies healthy and protected. When the inflammation is constant and at a lower level, it can cause the ovaries to produce more androgen and enhance the effect of PCOS.
Insulin resistance and PCOS
Excessive insulin may lead to developing PCOS. Our pancreas produce insulin to help moderate glucose (sugar), our body’s primary energy source. You may not have an abnormally high amount of glucose as much as your body may be more resistant to properly using insulin.
Rebalancing your hormones can help reduce your production of androgen and protect your body from more of the damaging effect of PCOS. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy starts with getting to know your body’s unique and beautiful composition. Our ReVital care team doesn’t believe in a “one size fits all” approach because of us is different in what our bodies need.
We created a FREE resource about BHRT available for immediate download here. Us this resource to learn more about the potential benefits of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Download your FREE eBook and schedule your next appointment today.