Q I've heard that PCOS is related to insulin resistance. What is the connection?
A A substantial proportion of PCOS patients also have insulin resistance, in which insulin does not work properly. When blood insulin rises, it further drives androgen production in the ovaries, creating a vicious cycle.
Detailed Answer
When insulin resistance is present, the pancreas secretes more insulin to control blood sugar, and the elevated insulin levels stimulate androgen synthesis in the ovaries. This worsens ovulation disorders and promotes weight gain and abdominal obesity. Correcting metabolism is central to PCOS treatment, as ovulation can naturally recover with even a 5-10% reduction in body weight.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
The Korean medicine concept of spleen-deficiency phlegm-dampness (biheo-seupdam) parallels the modern concept of insulin resistance. When spleen-stomach function declines, waste products and dampness accumulate in the body and metabolism slows, and this in turn disrupts ovarian function. Restoring spleen-stomach function to clear phlegm-dampness allows metabolic recovery and improved ovulation to occur together.
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