The exact causes of PCOS are uncertain, but the factors that are most likely are:
-
Hormonal Imbalance:
This occurs as ovaries produce androgens (i.e. male hormones) more than normal. These high levels of androgens affect the development and release of
the eggs during ovulation.
- Insulin Excess: Insulin is the hormone that allows the cell to use up glucose and convert it into energy. When there is insulin resistance, the ability to use insulin effectively is affected and this causes excess secretion of insulin to combat the resistance. This excess boosts the ovaries to produce more androgens, and contributes as one of the causes of PCOS.
- Heredity: The likelihood of getting PCOS are more if the disease is known to run in the family.
- Exposure to male hormones when in the mother's womb.
