---
title: "Understanding the role of hormones in PCOS"
date: 2025-02-01
author: "HSFC Kenya"
featured_image: "https://hsfckenya.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Understanding-the-role-of-hormones-in-PCOS.png.webp"
categories:
  - name: "Female Fertility"
    url: "/resource-library/articles/category/female-fertility.md"
  - name: "Female Infertility"
    url: "/resource-library/articles/category/female-infertility.md"
---

# Understanding the role of hormones in PCOS

In[ Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)](https://hsfckenya.com/resource-library/articles/emotional-and-social-support/pcos-symptoms-and-when-to-consult/), the primary hormonal imbalance involves elevated levels of male hormones (androgens) like testosterone, often caused by an abnormally high level of luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland, which disrupts normal ovulation and leads to the characteristic symptoms of PCOS, including irregular periods, acne, and excessive hair growth on the face and body; additionally, many women with PCOS also exhibit insulin resistance, further contributing to the hormonal imbalance.

**Key points about hormones in PCOS:**

- High androgen levels can cause: 
    - The most significant hormonal feature of PCOS.
    - Produced primarily by the ovaries.
    - Can cause symptoms like acne, hair loss on the scalp, and increased body hair growth.
- Luteinizing Hormone (LH) 
    - High levels of LH are a key factor in PCOS.
    - Stimulates the ovaries to produce more androgens.
- Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) 
    - Often relatively low in PCOS.
    - Low levels hinder proper follicle development and ovulation.
- Insulin Resistance 
    - Common in many women with PCOS.
    - Body’s cells don’t respond effectively to insulin.
    - Leads to increased insulin levels, which can further stimulate androgen production in the ovaries.

**How These Hormonal Changes Affect the Body**

- Irregular Menstruation 
    - Caused by a lack of regular ovulation due to hormonal imbalances.
    - Leads to irregular menstrual cycles.
- Infertility 
    - Disruption in ovulation significantly impacts fertility.
- Physical Symptoms 
    - High androgen levels can cause: 
        - Acne
        - Male-pattern baldness
        - Increased hair growth on the face and body (hirsutism)

**Diagnosis and Management**

- Blood Tests 
    - Diagnosis involves analysing hormone levels, including: 
        - Testosterone
        - Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
        - Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
        - Insulin
- Lifestyle Modifications 
    - Managing weight through diet and exercise improves: 
        - Insulin sensitivity
        - Hormonal balance
- Medications 
    - Treatment options depend on symptoms and may include: 
        - Metformin – Helps manage insulin resistance.
        - Oral Contraceptives – Regulate hormone levels.

[This article](https://www.uptodate.com/contents/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos-beyond-the-basics/print#:~:text=With%20regards%20to%20the%20reproductive%20system%2C%20it,interfere%20with%20normal%20function%20of%20the%20ovaries.&text=Androgens%20may%20become%20increased%20in%20females%20with,insulin%20that%20are%20usually%20seen%20with%20PCOS) by UpToDate gives further insight into the role of hormones in PCOS.

![](https://hsfckenya.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PCOS-hormons.png.png)