I think I might have PCOS.
When I was pregnant with my daughter about 4 years ago, I remember looking on my chart and it said possible PCOS but I had no idea what that meant. My periods have always been normal, but I have the darkening of the skin on my neck, underarms, and groin, I also get frequent boils, and have a few skin tags. I was unable to breastfeed my daughter, my supply just never really came in. I guess I'm wondering what happens if you have PCOS and should I get tested or does it really matter for me? I would like to have another child someday and I'm now concerned that if I have PCOS that it may be really hard for me.
PCOS doesn't mean that you will have trouble getting pregnant. I wish doctors would learn that. (I had 3 of them tell me I'd never have kids......I have 2)
As PCOS is a syndrome, you don't have to have all the symptoms/problems to have it. I have cysts, skin tags, IR, darkened skin, and irregular periods, but didn't have any trouble getting pregnant. In fact I was pregnant both times within 3 months of going off BC.
But yes, you should get tested. That way your doctors can better treat the symptoms you do have.
They'll test your blood for sugar levels, thyroid levels, and hormone levels. Some doctors will also order an ultrasound to check for cysts. IF a doctor rules it out only because 1 or 2 things comes back normal, get a second opinion, as that dr has no clue about PCOS.
As PCOS is a syndrome, you don't have to have all the symptoms/problems to have it. I have cysts, skin tags, IR, darkened skin, and irregular periods, but didn't have any trouble getting pregnant. In fact I was pregnant both times within 3 months of going off BC.
But yes, you should get tested. That way your doctors can better treat the symptoms you do have.
They'll test your blood for sugar levels, thyroid levels, and hormone levels. Some doctors will also order an ultrasound to check for cysts. IF a doctor rules it out only because 1 or 2 things comes back normal, get a second opinion, as that dr has no clue about PCOS.
Unfortunately there is no real cure for PCOS. But losing weight does help with symptoms. I had my surgery on the 16th of June, and already the dark areas under my arms have gotten smaller.
I've seen other women here on OH say that the only symptom they still have problems with after losing weight, is the facial hair.
I have my fingers crossed.