What causes PCOS?

Doctors don’t know what exactly causes polycystic ovary syndrome, but there are a few theories about certain risk factors:

– Excess insulin: Too much insulin might affect the ovaries by increasing androgen production (male hormones), which could ultimately interfere with the ovaries’ ability to ovulate correctly.

– Low-grade inflammation: Studies have shown that women who have PCOS also have low-grade inflammation, which causes polycystic ovaries to produce androgens.

– Heredity: PCOS can run in families, so if your mother or sister has it, you have a greater chance of getting it, too.