PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

PCOS is becoming a common problem among women and to enlighten everyone with how it can be managed & what it feels like to go through the PCOS journey. One of our patients has shared her PCOS journey with us. She did not want to disclose her name, so we are respecting her privacy.

Sharing is caring – Let others know about your PCOS journey

At one time I saw a post that said: Which of these things is hardest for you to say?

1. I love you

2. I was wrong, I’m sorry

3. I need help

4. I appreciate you

In all of these things, one of the toughest things to ask for is ‘I need help’. Most of us do not realize that we become hesitant to ask for help which eventually makes things difficult for us in the future. It might be possible that we become hesitant to show transparency to others. Well, the first time I noticed this was when I was diagnosed with PCOS. My body was going through a rough change but still, I was hesitant to ask for help. Moreover, at that time I did not know much about the problem.

In my journey of PCOS, I have understood one thing that you should share what you are going through. It is possible that someone around you is struggling with the same issue and they might get motivated to deal with that.

Getting diagnosed with PCOS

Back in 2016, I came to know that I have PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome), which is a common hormonal problem in women. At that time, it was in my late 20s and before that, I had not missed any period. So, I decided to consult the best gynecologist in my area. During the consultation, the doctor performed some tests and asked me in detail about my medical history. After all of that, it came to light that I have PCOS.

Making lifestyle changes during PCOS

My OBGYN asked me to consult an endocrinologist and they told me to come after 6 months, once I have lost some weight. In addition, the doctor advised me to live a healthier life and make certain changes. My doctor also told me that PCOS symptoms can be experienced as:

• Hair loss
• Weight gain since adolescence

During my journey, I understood one thing that we often neglect the situation in the first place and regret it when it becomes severe. I also made the same mistake because there was an onset of symptoms in the initial stage.

Get yourself educated about PCOS

Well! Patients must educate themselves about the problem on time so that they do not have to face excess issues. This is where the need for medical experts and certain community help arises to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and taking care of PCOS patients. Once I was diagnosed with PCOS, I wanted to make sure that I educate everyone around me about the problem.

PCOS – Common hormonal medical issue

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that occurs in around 10% to 12% of women. With this condition, a woman can have different symptoms which start impacting their overall life and health which include mental and psychological health.

What you should ask your doctor during the consultation?

One of my questions to the doctor was, “What are the conditions which tell me that I might have PCOS?” My doctor replied:

• Irregular Ovulation
• Irregular Periods
• Check through a blood test
• Symptoms of high androgen result in excessive body hair, excessive facial hair, or acne
• An ultrasound showing polycystic ovaries (Ovary have multiple immature follicles)

My other question was, “What are the symptoms of PCOS?”

My doctor replied:

• Weight Gain
• Anxiety
• Insulin resistance
• Body image issues
• Complications during pregnancy
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver problem
• Infertility
• Endometrial issues
• Depression
• Eating Disorder
• Infertility
• And many more

PCOS and Overall Health

In my research, I came across one of the facts that, ‘Half of the women with PCOS will become diabetic or pre-diabetic before they turn 40’. With that said, it is a serious problem that affects the person’s life to a great extent and if the problem is not diagnosed properly it can impact your life to a great extent.

There is no need to stay silent if you have this issue. We must speak up about the problem and talk in-depth with our doctor to understand what we need to do. There is no way that we should be hesitant when it comes to our health. So, as I have asked for help you also need to do the same.

Get yourself aware of PCOS

Many people think that if they ask for help, it might mean they are not strong or dependent on others. However, it is essential that you put one step forward and be aware of the issue and how it can impact your life. The lack of information even after the diagnosis creates a problem. To my surprise, my OBGYN made sure that it was told in detail about the problem and what are the consequences which can happen with it. No doubt, the journey might be tough at the start, but eventually, it will become easier as you will make efforts.

Wrap up!

If you are also struggling with it, then it is time to share what you are going through and we are here to help you.