ABSTRACT
Obesity, endocrinopathies, ovarian failure, genetic causes, acquired causes, iatrogenic causes, adrenal dysfunction, oxidative stress, chronic low-grade inflammation, altered lifestyle, etc. have a great role in disturbing the normal hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis and steroidogenesis. All these factors cause polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) in women. Sometimes, genetic alteration may also contribute to the cause of this disease. A study reported that vitamin D and calcium supplementation, flaxseed, licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root, Rhizoma coptidis, Nicker Bean, etc., have the potency to reduce the occurrence of PCOS. However, misbalance in the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis due to hormonal contraceptives, lactation, insulin-sensitizing agents, reproductive development, and pregnancy is poorly understood. Therefore, a lot of research is needed to understand this enigma. This chapter emphasizes the normal homeostatic role of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axial hormones and steroidogenesis. Moreover, it discusses the various factors that cause disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and its role in the development of ovarian cysts. Further, it also discusses the various factors associated with alterations in the steroidogenic pathway. Mechanical approach and management to control PCOS have also been discussed.
