hamburgerIcon

Search for Baby Diaper

Orders

login

Profile

Skin CareHair CarePreg & MomsBaby CareDiapersMoreGet Mylo App

Get MYLO APP

Install Mylo app Now and unlock new features

ЁЯТ░ Extra 20% OFF on 1st purchase

ЁЯеЧ Get Diet Chart for your little one

ЁЯУИ Track your babyтАЩs growth

ЁЯСйтАНтЪХя╕П Get daily tips

OR

Cloth Diapers

Diaper Pants

ADDED TO CART SUCCESSFULLY GO TO CART

Article Continues below advertisement

  • Home arrow
  • PCOS & PCOD arrow
  • Insulin Resistance & PCOS: A Comprehensive Guide to Causes and Management arrow

In this Article

  • What is the Link Between PCOS and Insulin Resistance?
  • Signs of Insulin Resistance PCOS
  • 1. Irregular Menstrual Cycles
  • 2. Weight Gain
  • 3. Excessive Hair Growth
  • 4. Acne
  • 5. Dark Patches on the Skin
  • 6. Fatigue
  • 7. Difficulty Losing Weight
  • Causes of Insulin Resistance PCOS
  • 1. Genetics
  • 2. Obesity
  • 3. Poor Diet
  • 4. Sedentary Lifestyle
  • 5. Hormonal Imbalances
  • Insulin Resistance PCOS Treatment Options
  • 1. Lifestyle Modifications
  • 2. Medication
  • 3. Hormonal Therapy
  • 4. Nutritional Supplements
  • 5. Insulin Sensitizing Agents
  • FAQтАЩs
  • 1. What are some common PCOS insulin resistance symptoms?
  • 2. How to manage PCOS and insulin resistance naturally?
  • Final Thoughts
  • References
Insulin Resistance & PCOS: A Comprehensive Guide to Causes and Management

PCOS & PCOD

views icons47

Insulin Resistance & PCOS: A Comprehensive Guide to Causes and Management

Updated on 21 December 2023

Medically Reviewed by

Dr. Shruti Tanwar

C-section & gynae problems - MBBS| MS (OBS & Gynae)

View Profile

Insulin resistance & PCOS are closely linked, and the relationship between them plays a significant role in the development and management of PCOS. In this article, we will understand what is insulin resistance PCOS, the link between the two, how to identify this condition, its causes and effective management strategies.

What is the Link Between PCOS and Insulin Resistance?

Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body's cells become less responsive to the hormone insulin. Insulin is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels by allowing glucose to enter the cells for energy production.

When the cells become resistant to insulin, the body compensates by producing more insulin. This excess insulin can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones in the body, leading to hormonal imbalances and the development of PCOS.

Article continues below advertisment

Research has shown that up to 70% of women with PCOS have insulin resistance. Insulin resistance can worsen the symptoms of PCOS, such as irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain, and difficulty in losing weight.

You may also like: PCOS and Thyroid: Understanding the Complex Relationship and Finding Solutions

Signs of Insulin Resistance PCOS

Recognizing PCOS insulin resistance symptoms is important for early detection and treatment. Here are seven common signs that may indicate the presence of insulin resistance in women with PCOS:

1. Irregular Menstrual Cycles

Women with insulin resistance PCOS often experience irregular periods or may even skip periods altogether. This is because elevated insulin levels can interfere with the normal hormonal fluctuations that regulate the menstrual cycle.

2. Weight Gain

Insulin resistance can make it difficult for the body to break down and utilize glucose for energy. As a result, the excess glucose is stored as fat, leading to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.

Article continues below advertisment

3. Excessive Hair Growth

Insulin resistance can cause an increase in the production of androgens, which are male hormones. This can result in excessive hair growth on the face, chest, and other areas of the body.

4. Acne

Elevated insulin levels can stimulate the production of oil in the skin, leading to clogged pores and the development of acne.

5. Dark Patches on the Skin

Insulin resistance can cause dark patches to develop on the skin, particularly in areas such as the neck, armpits, and groin.

6. Fatigue

The constant fluctuations in blood sugar levels associated with insulin resistance can lead to feelings of fatigue and low energy levels.

7. Difficulty Losing Weight

Women with insulin resistance PCOS often struggle to lose weight despite efforts to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. This is because insulin resistance can slow down the metabolism and make it harder for the body to burn calories efficiently.

Article continues below advertisment

You may also like: PCOS Weight Loss in 1 Month: How to Shed Pounds Fast

Causes of Insulin Resistance PCOS

Understanding the causes can provide valuable insights into the management and treatment of the condition. Here are five common causes:

1. Genetics

There is evidence to suggest that PCOS and insulin resistance may have a genetic component. If a woman has a family history of insulin resistance or PCOS, her risk of developing the condition may be higher.

2. Obesity

Excess weight, particularly around the abdomen, can increase the risk of insulin resistance and PCOS. The adipose tissue releases chemicals that can interfere with insulin signaling, leading to insulin resistance.

3. Poor Diet

A diet high in refined carbohydrates, sugars, and processed foods can contribute to insulin resistance. These foods cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, leading to increased insulin production and eventually insulin resistance.

Article continues below advertisment

4. Sedentary Lifestyle

Lack of physical activity can contribute to insulin resistance and PCOS. Exercise helps to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose utilization, reducing the risk of insulin resistance.

5. Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances, such as elevated levels of testosterone and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), can contribute to insulin resistance in women with PCOS.

Insulin Resistance PCOS Treatment Options

Managing PCOS and insulin resistance requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both the underlying insulin resistance and the symptoms associated with PCOS. Here are five treatment options that can be effective:

1. Lifestyle Modifications

Making lifestyle changes such as following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight can help improve insulin sensitivity and manage PCOS symptoms.

2. Medication

Certain medications, such as metformin, can help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate menstrual cycles in women with insulin resistance PCOS.

Article continues below advertisment

3. Hormonal Therapy

Hormonal therapy, including the use of birth control pills, can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce symptoms associated with PCOS.

4. Nutritional Supplements

Certain supplements, such as myo-inositol and omega-3 fatty acids, have shown promise in improving insulin sensitivity and reducing PCOS symptoms.

5. Insulin Sensitizing Agents

Medications such as thiazolidinediones (TZDs) and metformin can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance in women with PCOS.

FAQтАЩs

1. What are some common PCOS insulin resistance symptoms?

These include irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain, excessive hair growth, acne, dark patches on the skin, fatigue, and difficulty losing weight. It is important to note that not all women with PCOS will have insulin resistance, but it is a common feature of the condition.

2. How to manage PCOS and insulin resistance naturally?

While medical interventions are often necessary to manage PCOS & insulin resistance, natural approaches like consuming a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, getting adequate sleep and managing weight can be beneficial.

Article continues below advertisment

Final Thoughts

Insulin resistance PCOS is a complex condition that requires a comprehensive approach to management and treatment. Understanding the link between PCOS and insulin resistance is crucial for early detection and effective intervention. By recognizing the signs of insulin resistance, addressing the underlying causes, and implementing appropriate treatment options, women with PCOS can manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life. It is important to work closely with a healthcare professional to develop an individualized treatment plan that suits your specific needs.

References

1. Rojas J, Ch├бvez M, Olivar L, Rojas M, Morillo J, Mej├нas J, Calvo M, Berm├║dez V. (2014). Polycystic ovary syndrome, insulin resistance, and obesity: navigating the pathophysiologic labyrinth. Int J Reprod Med.

2. Purwar A, Nagpure S. (2022). Insulin Resistance in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Cureus.

Article continues below advertisment

Is this helpful?

thumbs_upYes

thumb_downNo

Medically Reviewed by

Dr. Shruti Tanwar

C-section & gynae problems - MBBS| MS (OBS & Gynae)

View Profile

Written by

Anandita Sharma

Drawing on more than a decade of expertise in administration, Anandita Sharma currently serves as a content operations e

Read More

Get baby's diet chart, and growth tips

Download Mylo today!
Download Mylo App

RECENTLY PUBLISHED ARTICLES

our most recent articles

foot top wavefoot down wave

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

Awards

Mylo wins Forbes D2C Disruptor award

Awards

Mylo wins The Economic Times Promising Brands 2022

AS SEEN IN

Mylo Logo

Start Exploring

wavewave
About Us
Mylo_logo

At Mylo, we help young parents raise happy and healthy families with our innovative new-age solutions:

  • Mylo Care: Effective and science-backed personal care and wellness solutions for a joyful you.
  • Mylo Baby: Science-backed, gentle and effective personal care & hygiene range for your little one.
  • Mylo Community: Trusted and empathetic community of 10mn+ parents and experts.