The exact cause for polycystic ovarian syndrome is unclear, many women who suffer from polycystic ovarian syndrome have insulin resistance, which means the body is unable to use insulin efficiently. Insulin levels begin to build up within the body and can cause higher androgen levels. Another cause that can increase insulin levels is obesity, which can make polycystic ovarian syndrome symptoms extremely worse. As well, it has been seen that polycystic ovarian syndrome runs in families, it can be quite common for a mother and daughter, or sisters to have polycystic ovarian syndrome.