Question about causes of PCOS

spyder · 07-16-2008, 05:32 PM

I understand how IR can cause PCOS. When it comes to explaining this to people, I'm solid. But I'm at a loss when it comes to explaining what causes PCOS in non-IR women. Much of the research I've done so far acknowledges that IR is the cause in 40% of women, but I can't find what the cause is for the other 60%. That's a pretty big number. Can someone help?

I just read:

Androgen Levels May be Key in Catching PCOS Early

Is this an answer? That one's androgen levels are simply screwed up without the help of IR and this then becomes the underlying cause of PCOS for non-IR women?

If someone wants to just link me to an article or study that I'm sure I've missed, that'd be great, too.

KatCarney · 07-16-2008, 05:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by spyder

I understand how IR can cause PCOS.

IR is just a theory at this point...

Quote:

What causes PCOS?

Although first described over 65 years ago, we still do not know the exact cause of PCOS. Theories regarding the mechanism(s) include the effects of abnormal pituitary hormone secretion, high levels of insulin, and abnormal production of male hormones by the ovary.

Source: http://www.healthsystem.virginia.edu...atientinfo.cfm

For your reading pleasure:

PCOS and Genetics (short easy read)

Genetics of polycystic ovarian syndrome

Genetics of polycystic ovary syndrome: searching for the way out of the labyrinth

Looking for polycystic ovary syndrome genes: rational and best strategy

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION: Is PCOS Genetic? (Parents, Siblings, Children)

Male equivalent of polycystic ovary syndrome?

http://www.soulcysters.net/male-rela...ghlight=men%2A

ATTENTION: If you read NOTHING else this year on PCOS, Diabetes, and genetic links..

ARTICLE: MUST READ...Fatty Liver (common in cysters) can lead to pcos type symptoms

Liver Disease identified in obese AND lean women with PCOS

2 Out of 3 Women With PCOS Suffer from Liver Disease

Women with PCOS at Increased Risk for Liver Disease

spyder · 07-16-2008, 06:21 PM

Looks like I've got my work cut out for me! I'll go brew a nice cup of tea and start reading...

Thanks again, Kat. I figured I'd get a quick response.

spyder · 07-16-2008, 07:02 PM

Well, that certainly answers my question. Thank you! Too bad that I've lost my pat explanation, though.

tina_d · 07-17-2008, 12:05 AM

I don't think that IR is the cause. I think the statement is more correct if it reads that IR is found in 40% of women with PCOS. I had symptoms of PCOS at puberty. I didn't have trouble with insulin levels until I was pregnant.