Healthwatch by Shyft

Join Dash Women's Health Communities for expert advice, curated resources & support.
Join now

Is PCOS Genetic?

Is PCOS Genetic?
download-file
Download our complete guide to PCOS Management
arrow-right
Content
Content

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a very common endocrinal disorder that has a large impact on the health burden of women and is believed to have a strong genetic basis. Despite extensive studies of PCOS, endocrinologists lack a firm understanding of how it originates.

While genetics are passed down from previous generations, it’s not always the case with genetic components of chronic ailments. In short, PCOS may or may not be genetic.

A complex ailment like PCOS can be triggered by various factors including – genes, a combination of lifestyle and environmental factors i.e. lack of exercise, sedentary lifestyle, dietary habits or even exposure to pollution. Although it is fair to say that there does seem to be a genetic component that may be associated with PCOS, it has not been specifically described.

Read more: Lifestyle Tips to Manage PCOS

Family Association with PCOS

And while PCOS does not for sure show a hereditary history as per various reports and research, there seems to be some sort of family association—an estimated 20% – 40% of those with PCOS have an affected family member, usually a mother or sister.

The genes that are involved in the production of androgens, specifically ones that lead to high levels of androgens, like testosterone, in the ovaries that make it difficult for the brain and ovary to communicate for normal ovulatory function, are responsible for the dysfunction. There are also other genetic variants that interfere with follicle-stimulating hormones, energy production, inflammation, and insulin production and regulation, which may also contribute to PCOS.

Studies on PCOS report various instances of relatives and siblings in families with dominant inheritance. The prevalence of PCOS in first-degree relatives was found in nearly 55–60% of several small families supporting the theory.

PCOS does run in families and can be a genetic ailment and can be inherited from either the mother’s side or the father’s side.

Early Signs of PCOS

Early signs that your daughter may have PCOS include:

  • Periods that remain irregular, two years or more after her first onset of menses.
  • Weight gain and trouble losing weight.

In conclusion, if any relatives, such as your mother, sister or aunt, have PCOS, the risk of you developing it is often increased. But keep in mind that while there does seem to be a genetic component with PCOS, the incidence is increasing, potentially due to an environmental or lifestyle component in the form of endocrine disruptors, it’s not unusual for a patient to have no significant family history and still develop the disorder.

Read more: Common Myths About PCOS


Author:
Shyft Health

Shyft

linkedin
Shyft is your trusted source for health and wellness insights. We collaborate with a network of writers and health experts to curate evidence-based content. This content is further vetted and reviewed by our team of internal experts. Our platform is dedicated to providing you with reliable, accessible health information so you can make informed choices for a healthier life. read more
pcos
pcos
Download our complete guide to PCOS Management
Enter your details

Enter your phone number or Email
address to download the PDF.

Article By:

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles
when new information becomes available.

Featured articles on PCOS

Check out our featured articles for a clear understanding of the latest nutrition trends and information. Empowering you to make informed choices that positively impact your health.

5 ways to manage PCOS Fatigue

3 minutes

06 Aug 2023

5 ways to manage PCOS Fatigue

Are you tired of being tired all the time? And is it because of your PCOS? Living with PCOS is a challenging journey, and there are various reasons why it causes fatigue. But if you already understand those reasons, working on them is more accessible. Read more on: Suspecting PCOS? 5 tips for managing fatigue If you have been searching for ways to manage fatigue with PCOS, then look no more! Our blog has everything you need to know to… Read more

Most read

5 ways to manage PCOS Fatigue

5 ways to manage PCOS Fatigue

Are you tired of being tired all the time? And is it because of your PCOS? Living with PCOS is a challenging journey, and there are various reasons why it causes fatigue. But if you already understand those reasons, working on them is more accessible. Read more on: Suspecting PCOS? 5 tips for managing fatigue If you have been searching for ways to manage fatigue with PCOS, then look no more! Our blog has everything you need to know to…

book

3 minutes

|

calendar

06 Aug 2023

Most read

What causes fatigue during PCOS?

3 minutes

29 Jul 2023

What causes fatigue during PCOS?

PCOS is a condition that affects the endocrine glands, causing an overall hormonal imbalance. This leads to abnormal development of the ovaries, often producing too much or too little estrogen and progesterone resulting in acne, excess facial or body hair, and many other symptoms. Read more: PCOS awareness Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms seen with PCOS because when you have PCOS, you experience irregular periods and high and low estrogen levels throughout your menstrual cycle, which can… Read more

Featured

What causes fatigue during PCOS?

What causes fatigue during PCOS?

PCOS is a condition that affects the endocrine glands, causing an overall hormonal imbalance. This leads to abnormal development of the ovaries, often producing too much or too little estrogen and progesterone resulting in acne, excess facial or body hair, and many other symptoms. Read more: PCOS awareness Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms seen with PCOS because when you have PCOS, you experience irregular periods and high and low estrogen levels throughout your menstrual cycle, which can…

book

3 minutes

|

calendar

29 Jul 2023

Featured

6 Things people with PCOS want you to know

If you're here because someone close to you has PCOS, you're doing good. You must understand that people with PCOS do not find it easy to communicate about their struggles with the condition, which also impacts relationships and sex drive. Taking a proactive step to understand what living with PCOS looks like can be extremely beneficial. Symptoms of PCOS can prevent them from doing many things that might be easy for people who do not have the condition. If you're… Read more

Most read

6 Things people with PCOS want you to know

6 Things people with PCOS want you to know

If you're here because someone close to you has PCOS, you're doing good. You must understand that people with PCOS do not find it easy to communicate about their struggles with the condition, which also impacts relationships and sex drive. Taking a proactive step to understand what living with PCOS looks like can be extremely beneficial. Symptoms of PCOS can prevent them from doing many things that might be easy for people who do not have the condition. If you're…

book

3 minutes

|

calendar

15 Jul 2023

Most read

5 things to gift to someone with PCOS 

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. The condition can cause a wide range of symptoms, including irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and hair growth. If you have a friend or family member with PCOS, it can be difficult to know what to give them as a gift. Here are five ideas for thoughtful and helpful gifts that can help support someone with PCOS. Read more: PCOS and diabetes correlation Insulated Water Bottle… Read more

5 things to gift to someone with PCOS 

5 things to gift to someone with PCOS 

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. The condition can cause a wide range of symptoms, including irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and hair growth. If you have a friend or family member with PCOS, it can be difficult to know what to give them as a gift. Here are five ideas for thoughtful and helpful gifts that can help support someone with PCOS. Read more: PCOS and diabetes correlation Insulated Water Bottle…

book

3 minutes

|

calendar

06 Apr 2023

Everything about Lean PCOS

3 minutes

06 Apr 2023

Everything about Lean PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. It is a complex condition with many symptoms, including irregular periods, weight gain, and fertility issues. There are different types of PCOS, and one of them is called Lean PCOS. This blog will discuss Lean PCOS, its symptoms, and how it can be managed. What is Lean PCOS? Lean PCOS, or non-obese PCOS, is a subtype of PCOS that affects women with… Read more

Everything about Lean PCOS

Everything about Lean PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. It is a complex condition with many symptoms, including irregular periods, weight gain, and fertility issues. There are different types of PCOS, and one of them is called Lean PCOS. This blog will discuss Lean PCOS, its symptoms, and how it can be managed. What is Lean PCOS? Lean PCOS, or non-obese PCOS, is a subtype of PCOS that affects women with…

book

3 minutes

|

calendar

06 Apr 2023

Recipes to manage PCOS, approved by nutritionists

View all
Understanding Metabolism

Vegan Banana Cupcakes

A light, fluffy and delicious preparation that makes for a perfect guilt-free dessert.

9 INGREDIENTS

|

45 MINS.

Understanding Metabolism

Lobia Curry

A tangy and delicious Punjabi style curry made with black eyed beans. This simple yet flavorful vegan and gluten-free curry is perfect to be served with chappati or rice.

13 INGREDIENTS

|

30 MINS.

Understanding Metabolism

Red Lentil Soup

A quick and easy to prepare soup with the goodness of plant protein.

6 INGREDIENTS

|

30 MINS.

Understanding Metabolism

ABC Smoothie

A refreshing vibrant smoothie that is as easy as A B C to prepare

7 INGREDIENTS

|

10 MINS.

Understanding Metabolism

Oats Tikki

A nutritious snack made with the goodness of oats, paneer, beans and carrots along with a host of spices. A perfect blend of health and taste.

9 INGREDIENTS

|

30 MINS.

Understanding Metabolism

Ragi Oats Cheela

A fulfiling and delicious savory crepe

9 INGREDIENTS

|

30 MINS.

Understanding Metabolism

Ragi Spinach Wrap

A modern take on spinach and fibre rich favourite

9 INGREDIENTS

|

60 MINS.

View all