Question:
PCOS & WLS

I'm having RYN on 1/2/08 and have been struggling with PCOS (Polycystic Ovaries Syndrome) for many years. I was wondering if anyone who was post-op could let me know how WLS surgery has changed your symptoms. My Dr. believes that the weight loss will make me start ovulating, and regulate my period, but I also have the classic dark "velvety" (I'm Caucasian) skin pigmentation around my neck, at my elbows, and on my inner thighs....I'm hoping the hormonal changes will lighten this or that it will practically disappear. Anyone have any experience?    — fijifruits (posted on December 27, 2007)

December 26, 2007
hi I was never told I had pcos but I was told I wasn't ovulating. When I had the surgery I was 31 and never before got pregnant and as soon as I tried getting pregnant I was successful and now I have a beautiful baby girl! I used to have facial hair before the surgery and started getting electrolysis before I had the rny and now I don't have any facial hair or darkness on my face. I might of had pcos before but never was diagnosed with it unless I just had a hormonal imbalance from being so heavy but now everything is normal. I hoped I've helped, Jeannie
   — jjeanniespets1

December 27, 2007
Hi there. I have PCOS as well and had RNY on Oct. 17, 2007. I was on glucophage prior to surgery for nearly 8 years and as a result did have a regular cycle and concieved in Nov. 2003. I had a preemie son in June 2004. He's fine, but I gained a ton of weight after he came home following his 10 week stay in the hospital and my PCOS escalated with facial hair and some skin pimentation changes. Mostly on my thighs, and some more noticeable freckles, larger than average freckles, on my jaw line or lower cheeks. I quit glucophage 6 weeks prior to surgery, and had a later cycle in October, then was 3 weeks late in November, then still nothing now, in December. I know the glucophage kept me regular, but also know that surgery throws things off. I have noticed that my skin is different, since losing 42 pounds, although it's drier, it's lighter, and I noticed that my freckles are fading. I'm not sure I ovulated though, but like I said, surgery throws things off, as well as hormones with the massive and sudden weight loss. I've had PCOS since I was 18, diagnosed at 22, and the glucophage was my saving grace. I don't want to go back on it, but if my cycles don't regulate, I'm not sure if the weight loss will cure PCOS or not. I also have less facial hair growth since having surgery, but that could be due to the protein factor..as I'm working hard on getting enough in, but don't always succeed. I know this doesn't help much, but just wanted you to know you're not alone in the PCOS battle with weight and other side effects. I'm praying the weight loss does what we hope and I'll keep you in my thoughts for a great outcome. For as many women that don't want a regular cycle, until you deal with PCOS, you just ache for everything to be normal! Hugs and best of luck! Cheryl
   — Cheryl K.

December 27, 2007
Hi, I am aware that losing weight may help PCOS totally go away, so keep that in mind, ok? The rest might also disappear in time. [email protected]
   — Pam Fottrell