Gout is a painful form of arthritis that can affect anyone, but men are three times more likely to develop it than women. Gout occurs when uric acid crystals build up in the joints, causing inflammation and intense pain. Uric acid is produced when the body breaks down purines, which are found naturally in the body and in certain foods, including red meat, shellfish, and organ meats such as liver.

While gout can affect anyone, women are less likely to develop it until after menopause when they lose the protective effects of estrogen. Estrogen helps to naturally flush uric acid out of the body through urine, so when women lose estrogen, the level of uric acid in their blood starts to rise. However, other factors can also increase the risk of developing gout in women, including being overweight or obese, having high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, or blood cancer.

In summary, gout in females is caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, which can be triggered by a variety of factors including diet, genetics, and certain medical conditions. While women are less likely to develop gout than men, they can still be at risk, especially after menopause.