Experts suspect that multiple genes are involved and that nongenetic factors also play a role.
It does not affect people with testes, who are typically assigned male at birth.
Verywell Health acknowledges thatsex and genderare related concepts, but they are not the same.
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Whats Genetic, Inherited, or Familial About PCOS?
They may also experienceinsulin resistance.
Insulin is the hormone responsible for moving blood sugar into cells for energy.
Insulin resistance can worsen testosterone excess and is a stepping stone totype 2 diabetes.
PCOS Genetic Traits
No single genetic marker has been identified for PCOS.
Instead, experts suspect several genes are involved, and these PCOS-related genes may vary among families.
Examples include testosterone production and activity, insulin release, energy balance, and chronic inflammation.
Lastly, subtypes of PCOS exist, each associated with unique genes.
The most common environmental or lifestyle risk factor for PCOS is childhood obesity.
Other risk factors include:
Bottom Line: Is PCOS Genetic?
PCOS has a robust genetic component, but environmental and lifestyle factors also impact its development.
Symptoms begin around puberty but can also develop in early adulthood.
The average age of diagnosis of PCOS in the United States is approximately 27 years old.
Various professional societies have established several criteria for diagnosing PCOS.
During adolescence, normal ovaries often look polycystic, which makes it an unreliable criterion for diagnosis.
Their appearance on ultrasound resembles that of a string of pearls.
The choice of birth control depends on factors like present symptoms and patient preference.
PCOS symptoms typically begin around puberty, although the average age of diagnosis in the United States is 27.
While PCOS is not entirely reversible, it can be managed well, often with several interventions.
Standard therapies include hormonal birth control and weight loss strategies.
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