Meg
| Introduction | I was dx w/Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) on 12 Nov 2010; however, based on my symptoms, I suspect it went undiagnosed for yrs. After several blood tests, an ovarian ultrasound, a physical exam, & a review of my medical history, my OB/GYN confirmed I had PCOS, a condition I would live w/for the rest of my life. PCOS affects nearly 1 in 10 women of childbearing age. It describes a group of symptoms & changes in hormone levels. The name comes from the fact that women w/the condition often have many small cysts in the ovaries. These cysts are often benign, but many of the symptoms are distressing. It has also been called "ovarian androgen excess" b/c the ovaries produce male hormones in increased amounts. Symptoms can include irregular or absent periods, polycystic ovaries, excess weight, carb & sugar cravings, problems w/blood sugar levels, acne, depression, anxiety, mood swings, thinning hair on scalp, excess hair on face & body, & infertility. I have experienced all of these symptoms except infertility, as I’m not TTC. Although it is terrible living w/PCOS, I am grateful for my OB/GYN who found the root cause, & w/the help of my Endocrinologist, I’m working to outshine PCOS. |
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