Inflammation

Chronic low-grade inflammation is an intrinsic feature of PCOS, present even in lean women without obesity, characterized by elevated inflammatory markers including C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukins (IL-6, IL-18), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). This persistent inflammatory state is not merely a consequence of excess weight but rather an independent driver of PCOS pathology—inflammation directly stimulates the ovaries and adrenal glands to overproduce androgens, worsens insulin resistance, disrupts ovulation, and increases long-term cardiovascular risk. Anti-inflammatory strategies including dietary changes (Mediterranean and anti-inflammatory eating patterns), omega-3 supplementation, regular exercise, quality sleep, and stress management directly target this underlying inflammatory component of PCOS.