PCOS and Insulin Resistance: What's the Connection?

If you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), there's a good chance you also deal with insulin resistance (IR). Research shows that 65%-95% of women with PCOS have some degree of insulin resistance — even if they’re not overweight. 

So, what exactly is the link between these two conditions, and why does it matter?

This September, during PCOS Awareness Month, Dr. Tomas Rios and Dr. Nicolin Neal at Rios Healthcare Associates in Houston and Sugar Land, Texas, are getting the word out about the little-known link. Here’s what you need to know.

Understanding the connection

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects how your ovaries work. It can lead to irregular periods, excess androgen (male hormone) levels, and multiple small cysts on your ovaries. 

While there’s still a lot researchers don’t understand about the exact cause of PCOS, insulin resistance appears to play a major role.

Insulin is a hormone that helps your cells absorb glucose (sugar) from your blood to use for energy. When you have insulin resistance, your cells don’t respond properly, so your pancreas produces more insulin to compensate. 

Too much insulin can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones in your body, triggering increased androgen production (like testosterone) and making PCOS symptoms worse.

Why insulin resistance is so common in PCOS

There are several reasons women with PCOS are more likely to develop IR:

• Hormonal imbalance: Elevated androgens interfere with how your body uses insulin
• Chronic inflammation: Low-grade inflammation from PCOS contributes to IR
• Genetics: Family history plays a part in both PCOS and insulin resistance
• Weight gain: Excess body fat can worsen insulin sensitivity

Even lean women with PCOS can experience insulin resistance, so it’s not just about weight but about how your body responds to insulin at the cellular level.

Signs you may have insulin resistance

Many women with PCOS don’t realize they also have IR because the signs can be subtle, including:

• Fatigue, especially after eating
• Sugar cravings or carb cravings
• Difficulty losing weight
• Skin tags or dark patches of skin (especially on the neck, armpits, or groin)
• Increased belly fat
• Irregular periods or worsening PCOS symptoms

If you suspect you’re dealing with PCOS and insulin resistance, a proper diagnosis is crucial.

How we can help

At Rios Healthcare Associates, we support you with a wide range of women’s health and chronic disease management services. If you have PCOS and/or insulin resistance, you can count on us every step of the way. 

Our approach includes:

• On-site hormone testing and lab work to detect insulin resistance early
• Lifestyle and nutrition counseling to boost your insulin sensitivity
• Medication management, including insulin-sensitizing drugs if needed
• Weight management plans tailored to your unique hormonal needs
• Ongoing monitoring to track your progress and adjust your treatments

Whether you’re trying to start a family, manage your symptoms, or simply feel better, we’re here to support you.

Call Rios Healthcare Associates today or request an appointment online to get started.