“PCOS Explained: Hormones, Insulin, and Root Causes”
Why PCOS Isn’t Just About Irregular Periods and How to Address It at the Source
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders in women, affecting up to 10–15% of reproductive-aged women. Yet despite its prevalence, many women go years undiagnosed or mismanaged, suffering from irregular cycles, unwanted hair growth, acne, weight challenges, and fertility issues.
PCOS isn’t just a reproductive condition—it’s a metabolic and hormonal disorder that affects your whole body. Understanding the root cause is the key to effective treatment, rather than just managing symptoms.
What Is PCOS?
PCOS is a syndrome, meaning it can present in different ways for different women. The most widely used diagnostic framework is the Rotterdam Criteria, which requires two of three features:
Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
Elevated androgens (male hormones) leading to acne, hair growth, or hair loss
Polycystic ovaries seen on ultrasound
PCOS can also be accompanied by insulin resistance, weight gain, mood disturbances, and increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Common Root Causes of PCOS
1. Hormone Imbalances
Women with PCOS often have:
Elevated LH (luteinizing hormone) relative to FSH
High androgens such as testosterone or DHEA
Dysregulated estrogen and progesterone
These imbalances lead to anovulation, irregular cycles, and symptoms like acne and hair growth.
2. Insulin Resistance
PCOS is driven by insulin resistance, which causes:
Increased androgen production in the ovaries
Weight gain and difficulty losing weight
Inflammation that worsens symptoms
Addressing insulin resistance through diet, lifestyle, and targeted treatments is often central to PCOS management.
3. Inflammation
Chronic, low-grade inflammation is common in PCOS and contributes to:
Hormone dysregulation
Increased risk of metabolic complications
Worsening insulin resistance
Lifestyle strategies that reduce inflammation—like a protein-rich, anti-inflammatory diet—can improve symptoms.
4. Genetics and Epigenetics
PCOS often runs in families, but environmental factors such as diet, stress, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals can trigger or worsen the condition.
5. Gut and Liver Health
The gut microbiome and liver play a crucial role in hormone metabolism. Dysbiosis or liver dysfunction can exacerbate androgen dominance and hormone imbalance, making symptoms worse.
Common Symptoms Women With PCOS Experience
Irregular, infrequent, or absent periods
Acne or oily skin
Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
Hair thinning or hair loss (androgenic alopecia)
Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
Mood swings, fatigue, or brain fog
Fertility challenges
Symptoms vary widely—some women may have irregular cycles but no weight issues, while others struggle primarily with metabolic symptoms.
Why Treating the Root Cause Matters
Many conventional approaches focus on masking symptoms rather than correcting the underlying hormone and metabolic imbalances. A root-cause approach may include:
Comprehensive hormone testing including androgens, LH/FSH, and progesterone
Metabolic and insulin markers
Liver and gut function assessment
Nutritional and lifestyle interventions targeting insulin sensitivity and inflammation
Targeted treatments to support hormone balance and fertility
By addressing the root cause, women with PCOS can restore ovulation, improve metabolic health, reduce androgenic symptoms, and improve fertility outcomes.
Lifestyle and Nutrition Tips That Support PCOS
Focus on high protein foods to stabilize blood sugar
Exercise regularly, including strength training to improve insulin sensitivity
Prioritize sleep and stress management
Support liver and gut health with fiber, probiotics, and nutrient-rich foods
Consider targeted supplements such as inositols, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids
These strategies work best when personalized to your specific hormonal and metabolic profile.
The Bottom Line
PCOS is complex, but manageable. With a proper evaluation, understanding your root causes, and a personalized treatment plan, you can:
Regulate your cycles
Reduce unwanted hair growth and acne
Support fertility
Improve energy, mood, and metabolic health
PCOS doesn’t have to control your life—you can take back your health by addressing the root causes.
Ready to Take Control of Your PCOS?
If you’re struggling with irregular cycles, androgenic symptoms, or metabolic concerns, it’s time to look beyond symptom management. I offer comprehensive telemedicine consultations to assess your hormones, metabolism, and lifestyle factors, and create a personalized plan to balance your PCOS naturally and effectively.
👉 Book your consultation today and start regaining control of your cycle and your life.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
