As a companion to Sadie’s episode, Mary dives into PCOS.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) affects 5%-10% of all women of reproductive age making it the most common endocrine disorder among women. While the exact cause of PCOS is still not clearly identified, the majority of research implicates having excess levels of insulin or insulin resistance as its main cause.

In fact, 8 out of every 10 women with PCOS could have insulin resistance, resulting in higher than normal insulin levels. This increase in insulin decreases sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), which increases androgens (testosterone). This has a direct effect on ovarian cyst formation. The end result is that a PCOS sufferer may stop ovulating, gain weight, develop skin conditions like acne and skin tags, and grow abnormal facial and body hair. The clinical picture of PCOS varies widely from woman to woman, and because the symptoms vary so widely and not all women display all the symptoms, doctors often misdiagnose PCOS. It is best to see your doctor if you think that you may have PCOS and further blood work and ultrasound and can be done to investigate.

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