Question:
PCOS covered as comorbidity?

Has anyone had polycystic ovarian syndrome as a comormidity and been covered for it? I am hoping for Lap Band surgery but my bmi is 38.6.    — Billie R. (posted on April 6, 2008)

April 6, 2008
I can't see how...It has nothing to do with morbid obesity as it can affect any female, young old, heavy or thin...I had it at 19 and was in the army and the most fit of my entire life...
   — .Anita R.

April 6, 2008
From what I know about PCOS obesity is a predisposing factor, and losing weight can halp make it better. I checked and OH has a forum for PCOS; you can receive support and maybe get your questions answered there. But a BMI of 38.6 also qualifies you for surgery if you have any other factors such as high blood pressure, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc. Good luck!
   — obeseforever

April 6, 2008
I have PCOS and although it's not considered a comorbidity, it can cause other things that are considered as such. For me, it was a huge contributor to my obesity, and my triglycerides and cholesterol being high, which also caused me to have high blood sugars, so diabetes was inevitiable. I also had high blood pressure prior to the birth of my son, and I was on glucophage (metormin) for my PCOS, which I think made many physicians and the insurance company believe I was already diabetic. Glucophage/metformin kept my cycles regular, thus I was finally able to get pregnant. I do think your bmi is low to be considered for this surgery without something else going on, but I would definitely still try for it. You just never know. Have you had blood work done for diabetes? You may be borderline and don't know it. If you really want this ... I'd follow all avenues to find out what is required to get considered. Best wishes and keep us posted. Hugs Cheryl
   — Cheryl K.

April 6, 2008
I have PCOS and have been a volunteer in the world of PCOS for many years, working to make it more understood by not only patients but physicians. I have worked with the PCOSA and presently work for Project PCOS. No matter how hard I fought insurance would not and does not consider PCOS a co-morbidity. Most women with PCOS end up having weight problems but not all. Insurance pretty much considers it to be a "period" problem and that's it. Good luck to you! One of the reasons why I went with RNY instead of lapband was because I have PCOS.
   — Fluffee

April 7, 2008
I also have PCOS but it is not one of the approval factors for my surgery diabetes and sleep apnea did it for me. But for us PCOSers know that weight gain and diabetes can come with the territory!
   — Melanie C.

April 7, 2008
I also have PCOS but it is not one of the approval factors for my surgery diabetes and sleep apnea did it for me. But for us PCOSers know that weight gain and diabetes can come with the territory!
   — Melanie C.

April 7, 2008
i suffer from PCOS and it was considered a comorbidity for me and with my insurance. PCOS does effect your health and is a contributing factor to obesity!!!!! good luck...hope this helps..Holly
   — RNlvnCARSON