What is the root cause of PCOS?
PCOS is often characterized by high levels of LH, which seem to cause the problem. While LH is necessary to mature the follicle, this hormone also causes the follicle to stop growing and to change in preparation for ovulation. When the levels of LH are too high, the follicle stops growing too soon. This abnormality may cause the ovaries to secrete high levels of “male” hormones (androgens), which cause some women to develop a masculine pattern of hair growth. While these factors have been known for some time, newer research is showing that elevated levels of the hormone insulin may in fact be at the root of PCOS. The high insulin may increase the LH levels and may also adversely affect the follicle directly. Associated risk factors High insulin levels are a risk factor for a number of other conditions: obesity, noninsulin-dependent diabetes (adult-onset or Type II diabetes), and high cholesterol levels which predispose to heart disease. These are exactly the risk factors which affect w
