Question:
Personal Female Question!

I am over 8 months post-op and have lost 111 lbs. I had Polysystic Ovarian Syndrome and did not menstrate before having this surgery. The day I got home from the hospital I started bleeding for 5 months off and on even being on the pill. I stopped taking the pill the end of October and starting using other forms of birth control because I had this surgery so I could be healthier and hopefully have a long waited for child. I was suppose to start my period last week and nothing has happened. I took a pregnancy test that came back negative and now I am scared to death I am still going to have the same old problems. Has anyone had these menstrual problems before? Please help! I am getting very discouraged and very badly want a child in the future!    — Crystal D. (posted on December 9, 2002)

December 8, 2002
This really needs to be directed to your GYN. Your cycles are obviously screwed up, which is VERY common following rapid weight loss, as well as following ANY surgery. But it has been going on for quite some time. See your doc, and work with them on a solution.
   — Vicki L.

December 9, 2002
I had my surgery 6/13/01 and I lost 150 pounds and I had pcos. After surgery My period was off and on and I thought I was pregnant about 100 times! My advice to you is call your ob/gyn and they will help get you back on track. And just to offer you some more hope 5 doctors told me children would never happen for me and I am now 6months pregnant with a baby girl!!:) Hang in there
   — Tiffini P.

December 9, 2002
Actually you should see a Endocrinologist. PCOS is a disorder of your endocrine system, that affects your cycles (among other parts of your body). It is not just a 'cycle' issue, and I have never had any success with GYN's in regards to PCOS. Besides all that, perhaps your body STILL figuring itself out. Even after my weightloss, I went on Metformin- because I still has PCOS issues and so may you. WLS does not cure PCOS. It helps, but you are never cured. There are skinny women with PCOS. Please visit a specialist.
   — Karen R.

December 9, 2002
I think you need to see your endocrinologist again and work with him/her- between your PCOS, your hormones and the rapid weight loss, you need to work out a plan together. There is also a great site for PCOS at www.soulcysters.com
   — Karen N.

December 9, 2002
Hi Crystal, I too have/had PCOS. I had RNY 3/20/02, today I am down 119lbs. I never got my period unless on BCP's. I did not get a period until 9/02 (on my own, no BCP's) and I am now like clockwork...I think you just need to be patient and probably see an ENDO doctor, I have yet to see one myself but it seems to be the consensus with the other ladies. I wish you well on your journey and I'm sure you will start to see your PCOS symptoms start to disappear soon. Good luck...Debbie
   — Deborah F.

December 9, 2002
In the last year you have been through serious surgery and had extreme weight loss. That is enough to knock any woman's system out of wack, I'd think. <br> Last I knew, it was not clear if weight caused PCOS or if PCOS caused weight gain, or if both are caused by glucose intolerance. This means it is possible that your weight loss will not cure your PCOS. However, often weight loss makes it easier to conceive with PCOS. I would recommend that once your body has recovered some more (12 to 24 months), you go see a specialist who is very familiar with PCOS-- a reproductive endocrinologist. I wouldn't go to anyone else-- because these are trained in both gynocology and endocrinology, so they understand much more than a doctor specializing in gynocology or endocrinology. <br> Reproductive endocrineologists, sometimes called "Fertility Specialists", are very familiar with PCOS. One will be able to take blood tests and sonograms, and let you know how your ovaries are doing. S/he also will be able to help you conceive if your PCOS seems to get in your way. Weight loss is not a guarantee that you'll be able to conceive with PCOS, but it certainly will help your chances. <br>
   — Beth S.