TLDR Insulin resistance and hyperinsulinism are linked to fertility issues and can worsen symptoms of PCOS.
The document from 2005 discusses the relationship between insulin resistance (IR), hyperinsulinism, and fertility issues, particularly focusing on their association with hyperandrogenism and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). It highlights that 25 to 60% of PCOS cases are linked to IR and hyperinsulinism, influenced by genetic, environmental, and weight factors. Insulin and related growth factors stimulate theca cells in the ovary, which are abundant in PCO and specifically secrete androgens. The presence of both IR and PCOS amplifies androgen secretion and skin-related changes such as hirsutism, acne, and seborrhea, along with hyperinsulinism-induced acanthosis nigricans. Androgens and estrogens, through peripheral aromatization, chronically alter feedback mechanisms, blocking ovulation, disrupting menstrual patterns, and leading to subfertility.
418 citations
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June 2003 in “Endocrine Reviews” While PCOS might increase the risk of heart disease, there's not strong evidence to prove it causes earlier heart problems.
298 citations
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July 2000 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” About 6.5% of young Caucasian women in Spain have polycystic ovary syndrome.
378 citations
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September 1998 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” PCOS affects about 4% of women in the southeastern U.S. equally across Black and White populations.
24 citations
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May 1985 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” A 21-year-old woman with polycystic ovary syndrome, hirsutism, and acanthosis nigricans exhibited insulin resistance despite normal insulin binding, due to a circulating low molecular weight inhibitor affecting postbinding insulin action. Her serum inhibited insulin-stimulated lipogenesis in rat fat cells more than control serum. Treatment with clomiphene improved her symptoms and reduced serum inhibitory activity. The inhibitor was stable under various conditions and appeared to be a low molecular weight substance loosely bound to a higher molecular weight component. This suggested that her insulin resistance was linked to this circulating inhibitor.
135 citations
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March 1984 in “Fertility and sterility” Higher levels of unbound testosterone are linked to increased insulin resistance, especially in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.
42 citations
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July 2017 in “Scientific Reports” Women with PCOS are more likely to have insulin resistance and obesity, especially those with the most severe type I PCOS.
18 citations
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April 2016 in “Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics of North America” The document concludes that diagnosing PCOS in teenagers is difficult and should focus on specific hormone levels and menstrual irregularities, while also considering treatment for symptoms and related health issues.
14 citations
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September 2015 in “Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Targets” The conclusion is that while oral contraceptive pills are effective for PCOS-related high androgen levels, new treatments with fewer side effects are needed.
96 citations
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February 2007 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” Women with type 1 diabetes often have polycystic ovary syndrome and excess male hormones, which are frequently undiagnosed.
1540 citations
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October 2008 in “Fertility and Sterility” The report concludes that PCOS is mainly a condition of excess male hormones and its definition may change as new information is discovered.
