Why Knowing Your PCOS Type Changes Everything: Understanding the 4 Types

PCOS isn’t one-size-fits-all: there are different root causes that drive it and every presentation is slightly different. Knowing your type helps create a targeted plan that supports your body naturally, rather than guessing or trying to “fix everything” at once.

1. Insulin-Resistant PCOS

This is the most common type, often linked to high insulin levels: a hormone that helps move sugar from your blood into your cells.
When insulin levels stay high, it signals the ovaries to make more androgens (like testosterone), disrupting ovulation and worsening symptoms such as acne, cravings, fatigue, and irregular cycles.

2. Post-Pill PCOS

Some women experience temporary PCOS symptoms after stopping hormonal contraception.
After coming off the pill, your body can have a short-term “androgen rebound,” leading to acne or irregular periods.

3. Inflammatory PCOS

Chronic, low-grade inflammation can disrupt ovulation and increase androgens.
This might show up alongside skin conditions, digestive symptoms, autoimmune markers, or elevated CRP/ESR.

4. Adrenal PCOS

This less common type occurs when the adrenal glands (not the ovaries) produce excess DHEAS, a type of androgen made in response to stress.
Cycles are often regular, but symptoms like acne, hair changes or fatigue can appear.

Why Knowing Your Type Matters

Many have overlapping features, but identifying your main hormonal driver gives clarity: helping guide treatment, nutrition, supplements and lifestyle changes that truly work for you and not just 'PCOS' in general.

Want to find out your type?

See our testing page on Essential Labs for PCOS

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