More PCOS info

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or PCOS is a very common but not widely recognized syndrome. The ovaries have multiple cysts (poly- meaning many). The hormone levels aren't level, the ovaries produce small amounts of androgens but with PCOS more is produced than normal. Insulin is usually elevated and that causes problems with infertility skin, hair and weight. It has been said that 5 to 30 percent of women have signs of PCOS. Most women start to show signs of PCOS around teen years. Signs usually include menstrual cycle abnormality, depression, weight gain and trouble losing weight. Some women have long heavy menstrual cycles and others go long periods of time not having a cycle at all. Most often PCOS is missed by physicians and menstrual abnormalities are solved with oral contraceptives which is what happen in my case. Oral contraceptives mask the signs of PCOS but do not treat the problem. I have been taking a drug called Metformin which lowers insulin levels. The drug has many side effects most of which are not pleasant. If Metformin doesn't work my next option is Clomid which is a fertility drug. Most people think that fertility drugs produce multiple births but not always. Clomid is said to only have 10 percent of women having twins and under 1 percent having more than two babies. At this point I really don't mind as long as I can get pregnant. Exercise and a high protein diet are said to help the ovaries function better so hopefully I can quit being in denial and try to help my body. My purpose for this blog is to encourage anyone out there who might be having the same struggle that I am. Any questions or discussions are welcomed! To all the cysters out there Stay Positive!!