PCOS and Insulin Resistance: What's the Connection?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects up to 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. It can cause irregular periods, acne, unwanted hair growth, weight fluctuations, and fertility struggles. 

These symptoms may seem unrelated, but they often stem from a metabolic imbalance known as insulin resistance.

September is PCOS Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to take a closer look at the relationship between PCOS and insulin resistance. 

Understanding the connection can help you manage symptoms and restore balance.

About PCOS

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. While its symptoms can vary, common signs include:

• Irregular or missed periods
• Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
• Acne or oily skin
• Weight gain, particularly around the belly
• Fertility challenges
• Ovarian cysts (though not always present)

PCOS is essentially about hormonal imbalance. It usually involves elevated androgens (male hormones), disrupted ovulation, and, for many, insulin resistance.

About insulin resistance

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps your body use glucose, or sugar, from energy food. When your cells stop responding to insulin as they should, your pancreas produces more to compensate. This is called insulin resistance.

Over time, elevated insulin levels can:

• Lead to weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Increase inflammation
• Disrupt normal ovulation
• Stimulate the ovaries to produce more androgens (like testosterone)

Up to 70% of people with PCOS also have insulin resistance, whether or not they have diabetes.

Insulin resistance can worsen PCOS

Excess insulin can worsen every aspect of PCOS. High insulin triggers more androgen production, which can lead to acne, hair growth, and irregular periods. Imbalanced hormones interfere with regular ovulation, affecting fertility.

Insulin resistance makes it harder to maintain a healthy weight, which can intensify PCOS symptoms.

Managing PCOS and insulin resistance

At Evolve MD Wellness &Aesthetics Med Spa, we take a whole-person approach to PCOS. Here are some of the most effective strategies we recommend:

Nutrition Support

Focusing on balanced meals that keep blood sugar stable, like high-fiber vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, can reduce insulin levels and ease PCOS symptoms. We also help you limit unhealthy carbohydrates.

Movement

Regular physical activity helps your cells respond better to insulin. It doesn’t have to be intense – a daily walk, yoga, or strength training can make a real difference.

Medication and hormone treatment

In some cases, we may prescribe medications and hormone treatments to improve insulin sensitivity. We work with you to determine what’s best for your body and goals. Our team also recommends appropriate supplements to help you manage PCOS.

Mind-body balance

Stress can elevate cortisol and insulin levels. We encourage you to implement tools like mindfulness, breathwork, and supportive counseling into your days.

If you’re living with PCOS, insulin resistance could be playing a bigger role than you realize. We’re here to offer help, especially if you’ve struggled with symptoms like stubborn weight, fatigue, or irregular cycles.

You don’t have to figure it out alone. During PCOS Awareness Month and beyond, our team at Evolve MD Wellness & Aesthetics Med Spa is ready to provide you with exceptional support and care. Contact us by phone or use our online tool to set up an appointment.