The Role of Genetics in PCOS and Natural Ways to Manage Symptoms

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose any conditions. LifeDNA does not provide diagnostic services for any conditions mentioned in this or any other article.

What is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting individuals of reproductive age. It is characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, elevated androgen (male hormone) levels, and ovarian cysts. It is also one of the most common causes of infertility among women of reproductive age. Affecting approximately 5–10% of women worldwide, it presents a significant health concern due to its association with reproductive and metabolic dysfunctions.

You might be interested to read The Genetic Connection of PCOS and Women’s Wellness

The Prevalence and Diagnosis of PCOS

The frequency of PCOS may differ depending on where people live and especially their ancestral origins. Studies show that about 4% to 13% of people worldwide have PCOS, but this can change depending on how it is diagnosed. In the U.S., around 6.6% of Caucasian and Black women are affected, while in places like India and Pakistan, the numbers can be as high as 9.13% and 50%, respectively. This difference shows that PCOS is influenced by many factors, including lifestyle, genetics, and the way it is diagnosed.

To diagnose PCOS in the U.S., doctors usually follow guidelines set by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 1990. These include signs like high levels of male hormones, irregular periods, and polycystic ovaries as seen on an ultrasound. However, diagnosing PCOS may still be tricky since its symptoms overlap with other conditions, and it may be different experiences in people.

How Does Genetics Impact PCOS

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a condition where a woman’s hormones don’t work the way they should. These problems with hormones are partly caused by genetics, or the genetic variants that we inherit from our parents. Here are notable genes that may have an impact in PCOS:

Genes That Help Make Hormones

CYP11A: This gene helps turn cholesterol (a fat) into a hormone called progesterone, which helps with pregnancy. If this gene doesn’t work right, it may cause problems that might lead to PCOS. But scientists aren’t sure if this is what always happens.
CYP21: This gene makes an enzyme that helps the body make some important hormones as well. When the gene doesn’t work well, it can cause problems in making the right amount of right kinds of hormones, which may lead to PCOS.
CYP17: This gene helps turn certain hormones into active ones that the body needs. If it doesn’t work right, it can make the body produce too much of the wrong hormones, like androgens (male hormones), which is common in PCOS.
CYP19: This gene helps turn male hormones (like androgens) into female hormones (like estrogen). In PCOS, this gene might not work properly, leading to too many male hormones in the body.

Genes That Control How the Body Uses Hormones

Androgen Receptor Gene (AR): This gene helps the body respond to male hormones called androgens. If something goes wrong with this gene, the body might not handle androgens properly, which may cause too much of these hormones in women with PCOS.
Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG): This gene makes a protein that helps control how much sex hormones are active in the body. In women with PCOS, this protein doesn’t work as it should, which means more androgens are free to affect the body.

Genes Related to Reproductive Hormones

Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and its Receptor: LH is a hormone that helps the ovaries work. In women with PCOS, the LH levels are often too high, which can interfere with the function of the ovaries and stop them from releasing eggs. Some people have changes in the gene that makes LH, which can cause problems with ovulation.
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH): Level of this hormone serves as an indicator of how many eggs a woman has in her ovaries. In women with PCOS, AMH levels are usually higher than normal, which can affect the ovaries and lead to PCOS symptoms.
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Receptor (FSHR): This gene helps the body develop eggs in the ovaries. If there’s a problem with this gene, it can cause hormonal imbalances that lead to PCOS.

Genes That Affect How the Body Uses Insulin

Insulin Gene (INS): Insulin is a hormone that helps control sugar levels in the blood. Women with PCOS often have insulin-related problems, and this gene helps control how insulin works. If it’s not working right, this can cause too high insulin levels, which can make the symptoms of PCOS worse.
Calpain10 (CAPN10): This gene helps control how the body uses insulin. If this gene doesn’t work properly, it can lead to insulin resistance and make PCOS worse.
Insulin Receptor (INSR) and Substrate Proteins (IRS-1, IRS-2): These genes are like helpers that make sure insulin works in the body. When there are problems with these genes, it can cause insulin resistance (meaning the body doesn’t respond well to insulin), which makes the symptoms of PCOS worse.

Other Important Genes

Fat Mass and Obesity (FTO): This gene is related to weight control and can affect how the body stores fat. Since many women with PCOS are overweight, changes in this gene can make the problem worse.

How Epigenetics Can Affect PCOS

Sometimes, it is not just the genes themselves that cause PCOS, but how the genes are turned on or off. This is called epigenetics. It’s like having a light switch for genes, and sometimes the switch gets flipped the wrong way. For example, if a baby in the womb is exposed to too many male hormones, it might affect their genes and make them more likely to develop PCOS later in life. But this is something scientists and researchers are still learning about.

What Natural Solutions Can Help Manage PCOS Symptoms?

The treatment of PCOS aims to manage symptoms and improve quality of life, especially regarding fertility and metabolic health. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment. The approach depends on the individual’s symptoms, reproductive goals, and metabolic health.

A healthy diet is one of the most important natural approaches to managing PCOS. Eating the right foods helps regulate blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and manage weight, all of which are key factors in controlling PCOS symptoms.

Insulin Regulation: Insulin resistance is common in women with PCOS. A healthy diet helps regulate insulin, which is important for controlling blood sugar levels and reducing PCOS symptoms like weight gain and fatigue.
Reducing Inflammation: Many women with PCOS experience higher levels of inflammation, which can worsen symptoms. Eating foods with anti-inflammatory properties, such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, can help.
Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is important for managing PCOS. Losing just 5-10% of body weight can improve insulin sensitivity and other hormone levels.

Helpful Foods to Include:

Whole grains: Foods like oats, quinoa, and brown rice provide fiber and help regulate blood sugar.
Lean proteins: Chicken, fish, tofu, and beans are good protein sources that don’t cause a spike in insulin.
Healthy fats: Avocados, nuts, olive oil, and fatty fish like salmon support heart health and help reduce inflammation.

Foods to Avoid:

Sugar: High sugar foods, like candy and soda, can cause blood sugar spikes and worsen insulin resistance.
Processed foods: Fast food, chips, and snacks can be high in unhealthy fats and sugars, which can increase inflammation and disrupt hormone balance.

Can Exercise and Physical Activity Help with PCOS?

Exercise is a powerful tool for managing PCOS symptoms because it helps improve insulin sensitivity, reduce weight, and enhance overall health. Regular physical activity can also boost energy levels and help manage symptoms like fatigue.

Improves Insulin Sensitivity: Exercise helps your body use insulin more effectively, which is important for controlling blood sugar and managing weight.
Reduces Weight and Fat: Regular exercise helps reduce fat, particularly abdominal fat, which is common in PCOS. Reducing belly fat can improve hormone balance and reduce insulin resistance.

Effective Types of Exercise:

Yoga: Yoga helps reduce stress and improve flexibility, and it’s a gentle way to keep active.
Strength Training: Lifting weights or bodyweight exercises like squats and push-ups can build muscle, which helps improve insulin sensitivity.
Cardio: Activities like walking, running, swimming, or cycling are great for improving heart health and burning calories.

How Can Stress Management Influence PCOS Symptoms?

Stress can worsen PCOS symptoms by increasing the production of stress hormones like cortisol, which can interfere with other hormones and make symptoms worse, such as causing weight gain, acne, or hair growth. Managing stress is crucial for keeping PCOS under control.

Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices help reduce the production of stress hormones and calm the mind. Just a few minutes a day can improve mood and help balance hormones.
Deep Breathing: Focusing on slow, deep breaths can quickly lower stress levels and improve focus, reducing the body’s stress response.
Sleep Hygiene: Getting enough quality sleep is essential for managing stress and balancing hormones. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to help your body reset and function properly.

What Role Do Supplements Play in Managing PCOS Symptoms?

Some supplements have been found to help manage PCOS symptoms. These supplements can support hormonal balance, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce inflammation. However, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider before starting any supplement.

Helpful Supplements for PCOS:

Several supplements can support women with PCOS by helping balance hormones, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce inflammation.

Magnesium: Magnesium can help regulate blood sugar levels and support insulin sensitivity. It also helps reduce symptoms like cramps and fatigue, which are common in women with PCOS.
Zinc: Zinc plays a role in hormone regulation, immune function, and skin health. It can help reduce acne and excess hair growth, which are common issues in PCOS.
Calcium: Calcium is important for bone health, and women with PCOS may have a higher risk of developing osteoporosis due to hormonal imbalances. A calcium supplement can support bone strength.
Vitamin D: Many women with PCOS are deficient in vitamin D, which is important for regulating insulin and hormone levels. A vitamin D supplement can help improve insulin sensitivity and support overall health.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil, omega-3s help reduce inflammation, which is often higher in women with PCOS. They also support heart health, which is particularly important for women with this condition.

These supplements, when taken appropriately, can offer support in managing PCOS symptoms and improving overall health. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. It is important to always consult with a doctor before starting taking any supplements to make sure they are safe and effective for you.

Can Lifestyle Changes Reduce the Genetic Impact of PCOS?

Although PCOS has a genetic component, lifestyle changes can help reduce the severity of symptoms and improve overall health. Healthy habits such as eating well, exercising, and managing stress can help balance hormones and improve insulin sensitivity, even if you have a genetic predisposition to PCOS.

Healthy Diet: As mentioned earlier, a balanced diet helps manage blood sugar and weight, two key factors in controlling PCOS.
Exercise: Regular physical activity can reduce insulin resistance and help with weight management.
Stress Management: Reducing stress through mindfulness, deep breathing, and adequate sleep can help manage PCOS symptoms and improve hormone balance.

Making these changes can help reduce the impact of PCOS and improve overall well-being.

What Are the Long-Term Benefits of Managing PCOS Naturally?

By addressing symptoms early and consistently, you can improve your overall health and reduce the risk of related conditions. Managing PCOS through natural solutions may offer many long-term health benefits.

Long-Term Benefits of Natural Management:

Reduced Risk of Diabetes: By improving insulin sensitivity, managing PCOS naturally may reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Improved Heart Health: Reducing inflammation and maintaining a healthy weight may lower the risk of heart disease.
Better Fertility: Balancing hormones through diet, exercise, and supplements may improve chances of getting pregnant.
Overall Quality of Life: By reducing PCOS symptoms like acne, excess hair, and fatigue, women may feel better and more confident in daily life.