Types of PCOS: Insulin-Resistant, Inflammatory & More
PCOS is not one-size-fits-all. The four commonly discussed types are insulin-resistant (the most common), inflammatory (driven by chronic inflammation), adrenal (elevated DHEA-S without insulin issues), and post-pill (temporary after stopping birth control). Knowing your type helps target treatment.
The four types explained
Identifying your type helps you focus on what actually drives your symptoms.
- Insulin-resistant: high insulin, weight gain, cravings, acanthosis nigricans.
- Inflammatory: normal insulin but high CRP, joint pain, fatigue, skin issues.
- Adrenal: elevated DHEA-S but normal testosterone and insulin, often stress-driven.
- Post-pill: symptoms appear after stopping birth control and often resolve within months.
Know what your body needs, every day
PhaseBloom turns your cycle into a day-by-day plan for how to eat, move, rest, and care for your skin, so you stop guessing and start working with your hormones.
Know what your body needs, every day
PhaseBloom turns your cycle into a day-by-day plan for how to eat, move, rest, and care for your skin, so you stop guessing and start working with your hormones.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know which type of PCOS I have?
Blood tests for insulin, DHEA-S, testosterone, and inflammatory markers (CRP) help identify your type. Insulin-resistant is most common, but if your insulin is normal, inflammatory or adrenal causes may be primary.
Does treatment differ by PCOS type?
Yes. Insulin-resistant PCOS benefits most from blood-sugar management. Inflammatory responds to anti-inflammatory diet and gut health. Adrenal needs stress management. Post-pill often resolves with time.