PCOS Thread

[ael0806]

Hi everyone
Not sure if I belong in this thread or not. PCOS is a VERY new term to me, so I just had some questions about it.

A little background on me. I was on Depo for many years, had my last shot in October '07. Been TTC since then. I have wacky irregular periods with no sign of ovulation, battling with my weight, hair growth on neck and a little on chin, and acne. My blood pressure is fine.

As others have mentioned, I was battling all these symptoms thinking they were either A) related to the Depo, or B) independently irritating issues. Then I read an article in a magazine that listed all these symptoms as related to PCOS and I was floored!

So my questions are:
- Does it sound probable that I have PCOS?
- Is weight gain caused by PCOS? or is PCOS caused by weight gain? And does PCOS make it harder to loose weight?
- Could all these symptoms be caused by Depo and not PCOS, even though I have been off the shot for this long?
- Is BC, specifically Depo known to cause, or be related to getting PCOS?

My husband just changed jobs, so our new insurance doesn't kick in for another 3 months. Otherwise I would run into a doctor's office for testing tomorrow!
Thanks so much!

Hi, I am new to this also, but was diagnosed w/PCOS in March of this year by my ob/gyn. I have had weight gain ever since an ectopic pregnancy in 2006, no AF without BC or provera, etc., acne, etc. But especially problems with the weight gain and difficulty losing weight. When dr got results of my bloodwork and ultrasound, he confirmed PCOS. (high levels of testosterone, my good cholesterol low, and bad chol. high, along w/the other symptoms I was having.) So you definitely sound like you belong here with us! It has to be frustrating to not be able to get tested right away to get some treatment when you're TTC. My dr. just started me on Metformin a few months ago, then i had to take provera, and now I am waiting to see if AF will come and I will O and things will get back on track. I have also had a 5-10% weight loss, which doc is hoping will help w/AF and O also. W/the Metformin and some diet changes, like cutting down on my sweets and carbs it wasn't too hard to lose a little bit of weight. Hope you get things straightened out w/your husband's insurance, and good luck!

[KC's wifey]

Hi, I am new to this also, but was diagnosed w/PCOS in March of this year by my ob/gyn. I have had weight gain ever since an ectopic pregnancy in 2006, no AF without BC or provera, etc., acne, etc. But especially problems with the weight gain and difficulty losing weight. When dr got results of my bloodwork and ultrasound, he confirmed PCOS. (high levels of testosterone, my good cholesterol low, and bad chol. high, along w/the other symptoms I was having.) So you definitely sound like you belong here with us! It has to be frustrating to not be able to get tested right away to get some treatment when you're TTC. My dr. just started me on Metformin a few months ago, then i had to take provera, and now I am waiting to see if AF will come and I will O and things will get back on track. I have also had a 5-10% weight loss, which doc is hoping will help w/AF and O also. W/the Metformin and some diet changes, like cutting down on my sweets and carbs it wasn't too hard to lose a little bit of weight. Hope you get things straightened out w/your husband's insurance, and good luck!

How does provera help with PCOS? Have you had any side effects with the Metformin?
Thank you for sharing your story, and good luck to you! I hope it all helps and you get a bfp soon!!

[Reicheru]

How does provera help with PCOS? Have you had any side effects with the Metformin?
Thank you for sharing your story, and good luck to you! I hope it all helps and you get a bfp soon!!

Provera helps you O. I took Metformin as well but it made me extreamly sick so I won't take it anymore.

[ael0806]

How does provera help with PCOS? Have you had any side effects with the Metformin?
Thank you for sharing your story, and good luck to you! I hope it all helps and you get a bfp soon!!

Yes, provera helps you O. I had been taking the metformin for about 2 months, and no AF, which the metformin is supposed to help regulate your cycles and make you O also, but it wasn't, I was just spotting and so my dr. gave me the provera, just once, to start AF. Now that I had AF and O w/the provera, I am continuing to take the metformin to see if I will start AF next month and O, and hopefully get back on track. If the metformin alone doesn't work, we will start clomid next..

This is the second time I have started the metformin... the first time it made me horribly sick to my stomach so I quit taking it. Then a couple months later tried again and started with a lower dosage, worked my way up to the 1500 (500 3x/day). Then, especially after I joined here and found out about cutting out some sweets, not going so heavy on the carbs, etc. I haven't had any stomach problems at all, as long as I stick to it, and i've also lost some weight! So, the diet changes really helped me and I was able to tolerate the met. to continue taking it! Hope this helps some, good luck!

[Xevy]

Thank you so much Michelle!

Yes, I am the same with acne. No problems with acne during teenage years, and then several months after ending BC, it got crazy! No matter how often I wash my face or what products I use.

I don't know if I am Oing or not. I haven't been temping. But I am always dry, no CM. Periods are sporadic and bleeding is medium flow for 2 days then stops completely. (I should fix my ticker, btw, its not even accurate) I've never had a positive OPK, but then I haven't been temping so its always been a shot in the dark when I do test.

DH thinks that I'm not being patient enough and that all the symptoms are from Depo. He basically insinuated that I am looking for something to be wrong because I want to conceive so badly and it hasn't happened yet. But after reading that article on PCOS it just really hit home how many of the symptoms I have, how much I matched everything it talked about. And I wasn't even trying to look up problems! The article just happened to be in a Real Simple magazine, of all places. Not even related to TTC. *sigh*

DH quit his old job on Aug 16, so if coverage is for 30 days then we are still covered. However, I think we had a $500 deductible, so we might have to pay everything out of pocket anyway. I need to see what kind of insurance his new job has and if it has better coverage.

In any case, its good to know I'm not just being paranoid, that this is something that could very well be happening. I would rather know what is going on, even if its bad, than be clueless. And I'm really glad I have a place like this with knowledgeable and supportive women to talk to!

You are so very welcome!

You can read my parnoia story on the first post on this thread. I was right about my Dx. Even though I it took my what seemed like forever to finally get Dx correctly.

I would check into your insurance for sure. Ya, you might as well wait if you have to fork out $$ anyway. But if your new insurance has a higher deductable it might be worth going to the doc now!

Things that you can do now would be to start an excercise program, even if you just start walking daily then progress to jogging. Any activity is better than none. Also, not sure how much you are struggling with wt, but some of the gals on here have tried the South Beach Diet. Avoid simple sugars and watch the carbs you eat. I like my sweets so I have learned to eat sugar free Jello and pudding (DH hates it so I buy him the real stuff). Plus if you eat fresh fruit you can get the "good" sugar from that. I do not struggle with my wt, but worried that someday I will so I try to avoid fattening things. I do not drink pop and if I do it is caffiene and sugar free. I cannot have the caffiene with my blood pressure issues.

Just ask the other girls around here about that stuff! Sometimes losing even 10 lbs can help regulate your cycles (at least that is what some of the literature I have read sayy).

Good luck and keep us posted!

[Xevy]

Provera helps you O. I took Metformin as well but it made me extreamly sick so I won't take it anymore.
Ask your doc to write a script for fordamet (name brand of metformin). It is more expensive, but you do not have the GI effects as you do with metformin!

[KC's wifey]

It looks like I will be waiting until the new insurance kicks in, which isn't until Nov. 1. DH is still very hesitant with even talking about PCOS. I think he is just really hoping I don't have it. He is wanting to believe everything is fine.

Thanks for all the advice and information! I have lost 25 lbs recently, and my periods for the last couple months have stabilized a little bit, even though I don't think I O'd. I will be getting stricter with my diet, and exercising more. Hopefully that will help, and get me jump started with managing it (if I actually do have it). Plus I will probably lurk around on this forum more! lol

Thanks again girls! :)

[Banne78]

Quick question about PCOS:

With PCOS is it just the irregular cycles that make it hard for you to conceive or are there other things with pcos that are preventing getting pg?

[Reicheru]

Ask your doc to write a script for fordamet (name brand of metformin). It is more expensive, but you do not have the GI effects as you do with metformin!

Thanks for the advice. My old doc wanted to give me that but since I am military they only have the metformin. They don't even carry the brand name anything at my pharmacy unless there is no off brand. They did give me all different strengths and even the extended release and nothing helped.

[Xevy]

It looks like I will be waiting until the new insurance kicks in, which isn't until Nov. 1. DH is still very hesitant with even talking about PCOS. I think he is just really hoping I don't have it. He is wanting to believe everything is fine.

Thanks for all the advice and information! I have lost 25 lbs recently, and my periods for the last couple months have stabilized a little bit, even though I don't think I O'd. I will be getting stricter with my diet, and exercising more. Hopefully that will help, and get me jump started with managing it (if I actually do have it). Plus I will probably lurk around on this forum more! lol

Thanks again girls! :)

Congrats on the wt loss! My DH was the same way, but he listened to me and when we went to see the RE and he dx me with PCOS and he said I was right. DH just grinned. He never doubted I had something going on, but he like your DH does not want to think that something could be wrong.

Keep up the good work and November will be here in no time. Have you made an appt yet? It would not hurt! Sometimes it can take weeks to get in, so I would make it ASAP!

KUP!

[Xevy]

Quick question about PCOS:

With PCOS is it just the irregular cycles that make it hard for you to conceive or are there other things with pcos that are preventing getting pg?

Both actually! The irregular cycles can cause you to be anovulatory in addition to your hormones being all wacka-do. Not making enough FSH to help follies mature (so you O late or not at all), too much insulin or messy insulin levels cause increase in male hormones which cause you to not ovulate. Of course these are all inter-related! Wacky hormones = irregular cycles.

[Xevy]

Thanks for the advice. My old doc wanted to give me that but since I am military they only have the metformin. They don't even carry the brand name anything at my pharmacy unless there is no off brand. They did give me all different strengths and even the extended release and nothing helped.
DOH! Sorry :( You could always pay out of pocket and go off base to get it can't you?

[KC's wifey]

Just curious, but is low energy a symptom of PCOS also? DH always teases me for how much I sleep, but I can't ever seem to get enough! When I went on that diet and lost some weight, the other ladies were saying how much more energy they had, but I felt the same.

[KC's wifey]

Anyone?... Bueller? ....Bueller?

[Xevy]

I don't know if they count it as a symptom, but from the junkie hormones being crazy it can cause you to be more tired and not want to do much.

[Blessedwoman]

I'll share my story. I've starting dating my DH back in 97. I actually moved to Oklahoma to be with him. Anyhow we were getting ready to go to a birthday party in Sept 02. I woke up that morning with cramps but, didn't think anything of it. I've always had irregular AF and thought the cramps were just AF showing up. I took something for the pain and went on about the day. We got everything in the car and made the trip to Texas for the party. The pain was getting worse and I didn't understand why. I never even thought I could be pregnant. Well needless to say after talking to both my mom and grandma I went to the hospital. Took a pg test and it was positive. Nurse came in the room and said well I hate to tell you that yes you are pg but, you are in the process of m/c as well. I had a DNC that night. My DH (DBF at the time) was with me the whole time being supportive. The doctor mentioned the cyst on my ovary but, didn't say anything else about it. I was clueless about PCOS or what it was. I had a follow up pap with the doc but, still never said one word about it.

Sept 23rd, 04 I found out I was pregnant. I was extremely happy. All my sisters had children and I was the only one in my entire family without children. I called my mom and she was happy along with me. The next day I went to the health dept to confirm the home test. I started spotting that day. On the 25th I seen an OBGYN. Done a u/s no heartbeat. I don't remember how far along I was. The OBGYN had said if the pregnancy went ok she wouldn't do anything about the cyst yet. Well That night I went to the hospital and m/c. Went for a follow up u/s since the doctor that performed the DNC said not much came out. I know TMI. The u/s tech was the only to tell me about my bicornuate uterus. She was surprised I had been kept in the dark about it this whole time. My OBGYN did surgery in Nov 04 to remove the cyst. I was cut like a c-section so she could "look around". She as well didn't mention PCOS but, I wasn't thinking about it because I was still hurting over the m/c.

An ex of mine is actually the one who brought PCOS up told me the symptoms which I fit almost everyone. I had the irregualr AF. Or AF that would last over a month. Which I got under control with BC. But, I stopped taking it because I was having bad headaches.

Sept 2nd I found out I'm pregnant. Four years later and I'm slightly worried because it feels like history repeating itself. But, I'm seeing an OBGYN Tuesday. I didn't even know about Metiformin until seeing it on this site. So I'm very thankful. I will be bringing it up on Tuesday. I'm praying hard for this one. I'm also praying for all you wonderful women to get their BFP and HH 9 months to those who have. :hugs: I wish I was sleeping right now :sleep: but, waking up at 2:30 to pee and then feeling like I'm starving has kept me awake. :silly:

[happilymarried]

Thanks for sharing your story and I'll be praying that your little bean sticks this time. Warmest wishes for you.

[HederHiggs]

Last night in the ER i got diagnosed with this they said my ovaries were covered in cysts. Everytime i go off the pill to TTC i have these same symptoms so now i know why. I've never had regular cycle except when i'm on the pill so this explains a lot..i go to the doctor tuesday to get more info and treated

[Nurse2008]

:hi: Hi everyone, just wanted to introduce myself. I've been lurking around these boards for quite some time now but have never had the guts to post. My husband and I have been ttc for 5 months now with no luck. I missed my period for 3 months(and I have never missed a period before)so I went to the doctor and was diagnosed with PCOS last week after having a transvaginal ultrasound. I'm taking Metformin and Provera right now and hoping that I can start ovulating on my own again. Anyway, enough about me just looking forward to getting to know you all better.

[Ready4mylilDuck!!]

........

[Reicheru]

No PCOS is not painful. Some of the symptoms (such as cysts) can be painful, but not everyone gets every symptom.

[Nurse2008]

Hey fellow PCOSers :hi: Just wondering how long it took for those of you on Metformin to begin ovulating on your own if you are?

[ael0806]

Hey fellow PCOSers :hi: Just wondering how long it took for those of you on Metformin to begin ovulating on your own if you are?

Hi, I have been taking metformin since June and have not had any success with the metformin alone. Was hoping it would start working soon, but if it hasn't when I go back in November, doc will start me on clomid I believe. But hopefully you will respond better to it, I have heard of a lot of people that have success w/the metformin alone! Good Luck!

[Nurse2008]

Thanks for the reply. I am taking 1000mg of Met currently and so far haven't had a ton of trouble with it. I am also trying to lose some weight. Do you take Provera to induce periods? If so do you take it every month or does your doctor recommend every 2 months?

[ael0806]

I take 1500 mg of Metformin. I was given Provera to induce AF once w/the metformin. Since I had lost weight, my dr. wanted me to continue w/the met to see if I would ovulate w/o having to take the Provera again. But has not worked so far, so not sure if he will recommend the provera again or start me on clomid.

[Nurse2008]

My doctor wants to start me on Clomid this next month but I think I would like to see if losing weight and Metformin will do the trick for me. Who knows though, my body keeps throwing me curve balls so I have no idea what to expect anymore. :crazy: Do you use OPKs or do you temp? I've only been going by CM but since I haven't ovulated in 3 months I haven't had to worry about that. :(

[woble27]

I will be given clomid on October 23, and begin taking it early November.... The few (2) people who I know who took clomid did NOT get preg with it. So that is discouraging... I was wanting to hear some success stories...

if you have some to share- I would love to hear them!!! I am looking for that silver lining in all of this!!!


Thanks, and best wishes to all of you!!!

steph

[NYPDbaby]

I just wanted to share this. I've been doing alot of research(its the wannabe dr in me I guess) and I found all this stuff regarding Nonclassic Adrenal Hyperplasia- in regardings to PCOS. I would love your take on this Robin, Xevy or anyone else: (BTW this was a French study)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects about 4 to 6% of women of reproductive age and accounts for at least 75% of hyperandrogenic patients. PCOS is diagnosed by the presence of oligo-ovulation and hyperandrogenism after the exclusion of related disorders, such as 21-hydroxylase-deficient nonclassic adrenal hyperplasia (NCAH). In turn, NCAH is a homozygous recessive disorder, diagnosed by a corticotropin-stimulated 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-HP) level greater than10 ng/mL (30.3 nmol/L) and confirmed by genotyping of the CYP21 gene. The prevalence of NCAH is approximately 50 times less than that of PCOS, affecting between 1 and 10% of hyperandrogenic women, depending on ethnicity.

However, it is generally difficult to distinguish NCAH from PCOS solely on clinical grounds, as both demonstrate varying degrees of hyperandrogenism and ovulatory dysfunction. Most PCOS patients have insulin resistance, in contrast to those with NCAH. Likewise, polycystic ovaries are observed in up to 40% of NCAH patients. Both disorders have a strong familial component. The only method that allows the separation of NCAH from PCOS patients is the measurement of 17-HP levels.

In conclusion, PCOS and NCAH have differences in prevalence and pathophysiology. However, because the disorders have significant clinical and hormonal similarities, the measurement of 17-HP, preferably basally as a screening method, should be incorporated into the evaluation of all hyperandrogenic patients

[ael0806]

My doctor wants to start me on Clomid this next month but I think I would like to see if losing weight and Metformin will do the trick for me. Who knows though, my body keeps throwing me curve balls so I have no idea what to expect anymore. :crazy: Do you use OPKs or do you temp? I've only been going by CM but since I haven't ovulated in 3 months I haven't had to worry about that. :(

That's what I was going for too, was hoping the weight loss would have helped w/the metformin, but still no luck so far. How about you? I use OPKs, but haven't ovulated in 2 months so haven't had to worry about it either... So it looks like clomid will be the next step for me next month...

I, too would like to hear some clomid success stories if anyone has any!

[mommytoababyangel]

ok to clear something up ...metformin does not make you ovulated.Metformin is use to control other stuff.And clomid does not work for everyone...you have to have a dr that is willing to move up the mg.I didnt o on 50...been moved up to 100.But i have gotten prego before on 50...100 and 150. good luck.

[Nurse2008]

ael0806, I still haven't had any luck ovulating on my own but I have only been taking the Metformin for one month so hopefully once I give the Metformin and weight loss some time to fix some of my underlying hormone issues I will begin cycling regularly again. I have to admit though that I was pretty bummed when I never saw a positive OPK and never had a temp jump to indicate ovulation but oh well, I guess time will tell. Had my hopes up because I know that some people on here have healed some of there insulin resistence with Metformin alone and were able to ovulate on there own fairly quickly. Hows your luck?

[ael0806]

ok to clear something up ...metformin does not make you ovulated.Metformin is use to control other stuff.

Yes, I know metformin is not used only for ovulation, but the 'other stuff' it controls can sometimes induce ovulation for those who are anovulatory.

Nurse 2008, my luck has not been so good either w/the metformin. I know it is a bummer when there is no sign of ovulating! Am continuing to maintain my weight loss, have not lost anymore, but still nothing. I have been taking it since June, so I'm about to give up on hoping it will work for me, lol... But I know it has worked for many others, so good luck!

[Nurse2008]

ael0806, good luck to you if you decide to try Clomide. I don't think I'll be to far behind you unless some miracle happens :laugh:. Let me know how it goes for you.

[liljazzy1122]

:hi: ladies, I am also taking Metformin since end of August, now 1000MG and still haven't seen any ovulation.

[NYPDbaby]

Hey girls my dr's finally put me on metformin. I am increasing my dose everyweek until I hit the 1500mg mark. I'm also doing clomid on CD3-7, a trigger and IUI this month, so everyone keep your :fingerscrossed: I hope all of you get your BFP's soon!!!!!

[lethaliz]

That's fantastic! BD like crazy this month. I got PG with Kayla after 3 weeks on metformin and I was on the same schedule you just described and I had even paid for my IUI for the following cycle. It was reaaaally nice to get a refund :laugh:

[NYPDbaby]

That's fantastic! BD like crazy this month. I got PG with Kayla after 3 weeks on metformin and I was on the same schedule you just described and I had even paid for my IUI for the following cycle. It was reaaaally nice to get a refund :laugh:

:celebrate::celebrate: WOW You made me so happy!!! That must of been the BEST phone call ever, "Hi, yes I paid for my next IUI but I don't need it because I'm knocked up already, so can I have my money back?":laugh:

[liljazzy1122]

No Ovulation for me yet ladies. I am so bummed.

[Fallenstar80]

I have a friend who might have PCOS. She was woncering if their is a higher chance of miscarrying in early pregnancy with PCOS than without it. Her doctor said there wasn't but she is still concerned.

[Nurse2008]

Yes there is a higher risk of miscarriage with PCOS than without.

[Nurse2008]

liljazzy, I'm sorry your haven't O'd yet. To bad you can't sit your ovaries down and have a pep talk. Maybe you could bribe them or threaten them. Something tells me it wouldn't work, but hey I know how you feel and anything is worth a try.
:laugh:

[PCOScyster0507]

I too have been taking Met since September, no o yet but I do seem to be getting regular with my cycles. So far, I have had 2 29 day cycles. That's a first in it's self. I'm not IR so I question why my doc wants me to remain on metformin. I just take it to lower my risks somewhat on having a miscarriage. Maybe we will see some DPOs on our tickers soon ladies!

[liljazzy1122]

Well ladies still praying here!
Nurse2008- Congratz I didnt know you were prego!!!!!:celebrate:

[Nurse2008]

Thanks so much for the congrats! I posted the news in the ttc board late last week but it got bumped down pretty fast so I'm not sure how many people actually saw it. We are pretty excited, but still really scared that something will happen. We are waiting for a couple more weeks to tell our familys. :) I'm a total POAS addict so I've continued to use them because I love seeing that line....and its continued to get darker so we're hoping thats a good sign.

[Xevy]

Any other fellow PCOSers gone thru IVF or considering it?

[Ready4mylilDuck!!]

..

[liljazzy1122]

Here is some good info:
Click here for an additional (free) PDF Handout on PCOS:
http://www.jarrettfertility.com/PCOS...%20handout.pdf

[Katetastrophe]

I know I keep talking about this all over the boards and it's probably beyond annoying at this point, but I have to tell you ladies that this book (http://www.ovarian-cysts-pcos.com/pcos-book-res.html) has changed my life. I'm finally at a healthy weight, experiencing pretty predictable, shorter cycles, my acne has cleared up, I'm not tired or bloated any more, the hair on my head is getting softer and thicker, and best of all, I am reducing my metformin dose! My doctor is so excited.

All my doctors, including my endo, told me we were at the end of the line for treatments for the non-fertility related symptoms of PCOS. I refused to give up. I'm so glad I didn't and I hope you ladies won't either.

I can't wait till DH gets home and I can finally get that BFP and prove once and for all that this program WORKS!

[liljazzy1122]

Amazing Kate!!!!! Thanks for letting us know

[mel hissa]

I just wanted to share this. I've been doing alot of research(its the wannabe dr in me I guess) and I found all this stuff regarding Nonclassic Adrenal Hyperplasia- in regardings to PCOS. I would love your take on this Robin, Xevy or anyone else: (BTW this was a French study)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects about 4 to 6% of women of reproductive age and accounts for at least 75% of hyperandrogenic patients. PCOS is diagnosed by the presence of oligo-ovulation and hyperandrogenism after the exclusion of related disorders, such as 21-hydroxylase-deficient nonclassic adrenal hyperplasia (NCAH). In turn, NCAH is a homozygous recessive disorder, diagnosed by a corticotropin-stimulated 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-HP) level greater than10 ng/mL (30.3 nmol/L) and confirmed by genotyping of the CYP21 gene. The prevalence of NCAH is approximately 50 times less than that of PCOS, affecting between 1 and 10% of hyperandrogenic women, depending on ethnicity.

However, it is generally difficult to distinguish NCAH from PCOS solely on clinical grounds, as both demonstrate varying degrees of hyperandrogenism and ovulatory dysfunction. Most PCOS patients have insulin resistance, in contrast to those with NCAH. Likewise, polycystic ovaries are observed in up to 40% of NCAH patients. Both disorders have a strong familial component. The only method that allows the separation of NCAH from PCOS patients is the measurement of 17-HP levels.

In conclusion, PCOS and NCAH have differences in prevalence and pathophysiology. However, because the disorders have significant clinical and hormonal similarities, the measurement of 17-HP, preferably basally as a screening method, should be incorporated into the evaluation of all hyperandrogenic patients

I had my 17-HP checked and it was indeed high. Then, I had to have a cortisol stim test type thing where they check you an hour or a couple hours after they inject cortisol (it was a long time ago so details are fuzzy). Anyway, my initial number was a bit high but actually went down after the stim. So, NCAH was ruled out for me. The doc did show me a little blurb in a textbook though that said that having PCOS can cause your 17-HP to be high so he chalked it up to that. I don't have acne or hursitism and am not obese. Those are pretty common syptoms for NCAH. It probably should be ruled out in PCOS patients even though it is not very common.

[Mariposa]

I dunno about pcos I think I have it but I am afraid if I do...:ohno: Ill find out in jan. I also wanted to know can a doc tell u have pcos by pelvic exam and touching your ovaries??

[mel hissa]

Mariposa,

No, they can't tell with a pelvic exam or touching ovaries. It is a syndrome meaning that everyone presents it differently so you may not fit all the criteria. Different doctors dx by different criteria. There are simple blood tests or some like to do ultrasounds. Through your blood, they can check your FSH and LH hormones, your androgens, and/or your insulin resistance. It just really depends on the doctor. I was dx'd by LH/FSH ratio only.

While I hope that you don't have it, it is becoming more well known and there are different treatments available.

Good luck with your appt.

[liljazzy1122]

:ita: with Melissa.

And melissa how long it took you to conceive that precious baby in there?

[mel hissa]

My first one took 14 months. This one took 3. I am very lucky in that metformin works very well for me. Before I could probably go forever without a period. My longest cycle was like 3 months before using prometrium. I took 1000 mg for a while and it didn't really work so my OB sent me to another OB more specializing in infertility and he started me on 2000 mg so as I worked up to that, after about 2 months, I was ovulating on about day 19. It took 3 months from there to conceive number one. I also lost about 15 lbs. from the time I started met.

With this one, I quit taking BC a little early, started metformin and I was Oing cd 22-24 for 3 months and got my BFP. To be honest this time around I wasn't very good about taking my met but it seemed to help anyway even though I was oing a little later. I also weigh about 30 lbs more than with number 1.

Sorry, that may have been more than you wanted to know but people are always asking if anybody has success on just met. It is possible.

Good luck to you, I hope you get your BFP soon :hugs:

[Mariposa]

:ohno:Bummer

[Nurse2008]

liljazzy, I just thought I'd chime in on the met thing. I started taking met, lost 22 pounds with weight watchers and 1 month after that I was prego. So 2 months after starting met for me, but 7 months total ttc. Just wanted some people who are on met alone to have hope. I honestly thought I would be moving on to Clomid. Good luck to everyone, I hope your BFP's are just around the corner! :)

[nenechell7]

Hi I'm Lindsey (22) DH (24) have been stc since March 06. I have been diagnosed with PCOS, laprascopy Oct 07 unblocked tubes, laprascopy Oct 08 tubes still open removed endometriosis and ovarian drilling. I have been on Clomid for months, fixing to start the 2nd cylce since last surgery.

[Xevy]

Welcome and good luck! We hope your stay is short!!!

[cnc4evr]

My doctor told me that I have PCOS and a tilted uteris and both make it hard tc!She said she wants to put me on metformin but wants me to a get bunch of blood tests done first. But as you all know it can be sort of expensive. She wants to make sure it is not my thyroid and ckeck my prolactin levels. I am having cycles more regular the last 4 or 5 months but they last so long! I dont think i am ov. and believe me if i was we should have conceived by now!

[stuckinnuetral]

Hi everyone-- I was recently diagonosed (after a long process) with PCOS, and I have to admit, I'm a little overwhelmed. The dr. put me on provera and met, but from what I understand, there's a bunch more testing to do. Is it expensive? It helps to know there are others out there who understand. :)

[queenj919]

I diagnosed myself with PCOS (isn't the Internet grand?). I have many of the symptoms: missed periods, prolonged spotting, weight gain, depression, and unwanted facial hair. Sheesh, now I'm using DH's razor once a month. Dr offered some med for the hair but it's harmful if you plan to have kids.

I went to an endocrinologist in June/July of this year because I thought it was a thyroid issue. She prescribed Met and I have lost 15 lbs since then and AF is more/less regular. I'm going back in a couple of weeks. I hope she can up my dose; 15 lbs in 6 months is very slow.

[ktbug]

I am pretty positive I have PCOS.

I just noticed I have some weird facial hair growing on my face too. Its like little tiny white hairs on my cheeks and lower jaw. (I never noticed it until I got my skin cleared up with some new face cleanser/toner.)

I also have gained 25-30 lbs in the last 3-4 years. No matter what I do, I can't lose the weight. I never had this problem until after I went of BCP's about 4 years ago.

I hate how unfair life is sometimes :boohoo:

[pumpkinpeejays]

I have PCOS, diagnosed at 16. BUT now I am ovulatory due to diet change, exercise, and Reiki. :hooray:

[queenj919]

dr up my dose from 1000 to 2000. I've lost a few more lbs. Hoping the higher dose helps with more weight loss. Facial hair seems to be growing slower. Periods are about 28-37 days. Don't feel sharp pains in sides as much as I used to. Could that mean that I'm ovulating when I'm supposed to, and the cysts are decreasing?

[trb519]

Hello everyone,
I just found this website so I figured hey Ill try it out! I'm not all up on some of the "lingo" I caught onto TTC though..lol...anyway I have been TTC for almost 2 years...I was Diagnosed with PCOS about 1 1/2 years ago...to make a long story short I have not been able to conceive....last Oct. I had an u/s and my Dr found a 2 inch round Polyp in my uterus...I had surgery in November a dnc so he cleaned my uterus out....I have been on Clomid for at least a year posibble 1 1/2 I lost count...I wasn't producing follicles this is why he decided to do an internal u/s after my sx I started the clomid again and low and behold he said at my next exam I was producing follicles ...I was also on provera because I wasn't ovulating and I happened to miss taking it this past Nov 2008 and I figured i was ovulating when I was suppose to because I got my period smack dab on the day it was suppose to come which in the past I was all over the board...so I had an appointment because I had a problem...turned out to be yeast infection and when I went in my Dr was leaving because he had to do an emergency c section...so I saw a Dr who is new to the practice...I was a little hesitant but had to get my problem checked out and after he dx with a yeast infection he was reading my chart and asked how long I was on Clomid at the 50 mgs....so we discussed it and he felt we should boost it to 100mgs to maybe stimulate my ovaries more...so I agreed even though I was concerned cause I was dealing with my regular Dr before this and he has always said 50 mgs was good for me...I was a little hesitant but I agreed...the Dr also agreed if I was ovulating normally now to go off of provera so I did...so january 2009 would be the first month I used the 100mgs of clomid...ofcourse right around the time when I was suppose to be ovulating I had the worse flu ever...so it didnt happen in January needless to say I was so sick no sex occured that week..lol...so all of this time I have never tried ovulation sticks...well come February 2009 yes this month I was so determined...I again got my period on the exact day I suppose to get it which was January 31, 2009...I took the clomid again 100mgs but this time I purchased a bunch of Ovulation sticks....the day after my period I started testing I guess I was anxious...they were negative ofcourse but come the 13th of Feb. I took it and OMG the line was as dark as the test line I was almost floored i was so excited my very fertile day was Feb. 14th so we had intercourse from then every other day which the 16th was my definte ovulation day...the 13th and 14th I tested my cervival mucus it was like egg whites...so needless to say I am so anxious right now...and scared at the same time....When should I take the pg test...any suggestions about anything else! Oh yea silly question I dont get some of the abbreviations can anyone help?
Thanks!
Tiffany

[Crazygal77]

Hi everyone,
I was just diagnosed with PCOS. My DH and I have been trying to get preg for 5 years. I am 31. I have had blood work done that came back ok. My dr. wants me to start taking Metformin? Anyone have any feedback on this med? I have to have a uteris ultrasound done after my AF comes. I am just a little scared about the meds. Help!!

[HederHiggs]

i have a question about PCOS they said i had it when i went to the ER but my doctor said that she doesn't think i do b/c i dont' have all of the symptoms just the cysts on my ovaries
But here recently I've started getting hard black hair on my chin..is this another PCOS symptoms or a just getting older thing
whatever it is is annoying

[queenj919]

@crazygal - I think a lot of the ladies here are on met. I'm taking it and it has regulated my cycle somewhat. as a side effect, I'm losing weight very slowly. Your body may need to get use to the meds. When I first started taking it, diarrhea was my main complaint. Now, I only have that problem when I eat lots of carbs.

@Heder - unfortunately, the hair growth may be a symptom of PCOS. I have facial and chin hair (UGH!!!). totally embarrassing although DH says he doesn't notice it, and I do believe him. But I know it's there. My dr was going to prescribe something for it but since I plan on having another baby, she said not to take it.

[mariahpoo2]

I think I have PCOS... I had really bad ovarian cysts when I was younger and they put me on bc to regulate me. Ever since I have been off... I have had wait gain, hair growth on my upper lip, irregular periods and I believe the cysts are back. Not sure if I am ovulating.

I go to the Dr. on the 1st. Wish me luck.

[szo]

Hi Maria,

I want to wish you all the best. I was diagnosed with PCOS too and TTC for over a year for my first baby. But I have 3 kids now!

I want to add this information about PCOS from a site I have been using. I hope this helps:
http://www.ahababy.com/subject/infertility-fertility-treatments-in-vitro-ivf?entry=PCOS&keywords=PCOS&sid=C329

[GatorGRITS]

Hi ladies! I'm pretty sure I have PCOS. A bunch of bloodwork has been done on me, none of which was conclusive. My testosterone and insulin/blood sugar looked great. The only "off" result was my LH/FSH ratio. But, those results came off of testing done on CD52 instead of CD3 like they're supposed to be done. So, I was told it was possible that I was about to O (but I doubt it).

I've had one u/s that looked normal (no cysts) and one during my last cycle at CD70 that showed polycystic ovaries.

Anyway, I've been taking metformin for a couple of weeks. I'm up to 1000mg, but I'm not sure if I should be taking more or not. My doc doesn't really prescribe metformin- I'm the one who asked her for it. Should I be taking 1500mg?

Any advice is appreciated!

Jen :)

[gerbeme]

My story is starting out a whole lot like Kimmie (which gives me hope on my side). The only PCOS symptoms I have is high testosterone and irregular periods. DH has low everything which we are working on getting up. Not sure on reasoning just yet. Went to RE first time last Friday and he seemed to do a full workup on us both and should have results in one month. My sugar test results came in and I have mild resistence to insulin so he has put me on glucaphage. I won't start it till after my surgery.

Next step to climb is I have stage 3 dysplasia that I will go have surgery on Tuesday. Then hopefully one month from now we can see what we are facing or at least get a better idea of what we are facing.

Good luck to all :-P

[Xevy]

Hello ladies...I just wanted to give you some hope that it can happen!! After 2 yrs of STC we finally have our BFP after IVF!! PCOS has been a b%tch but we made it! You can too!!

[PCOScyster0507]

Congrats girl!!

[Jaredsmom]

I have a question, my doctor did not diagnose me with PCOS, although we know I have a cyst. It normally goes away on its own monthly. This last month i had an extremely long cycle for me, about 45 days. This is my 2nd time trying to concieve, I went on the pill for 3 months due to cramping and endometriosis, then stopped in 12/08, so we could try for #2.
My Doctor has placed me on Metformin for the time being, and i am worried that he might think I have PCOS without telling me??? I was also told to check my ovulation from day CD10- when a positive ov test is seen. This last month I testest and got a positive on day 19-23???? Why would i ovulate for 4 days????? Any ideas?

[jade-e-bug]

Do any of you girls have elevated TSH & Prolactin levels...My TSH was 4.89 & Prolactin was 24...The normal for tsh was 0.9-4.0 & prolactine was 24 and the normal for them is 3-20...Do you girls have any advise for me...Should I worry about this???? What does it mean???

[Blondshania]

Hi Jade, I'm due to have some blood work soon so will let you know how my results compare...doc says i prob have PCOS and we saw cysts on the ultrasound

[GatorGRITS]

Question: does having PCOS usually result in needing IVF to conceive??

I am just starting for Clomid for the first time as soon as AF shows her face. But, I recevied IVF payment options WITH A CONTRACT TO SIGN this weekend from my RE's office. We never even discussed IVF!

I'm so confused. IVF is not something DH and I agree on right now :(

[AnnaBoop]

Question: does having PCOS usually result in needing IVF to conceive??

I am just starting for Clomid for the first time as soon as AF shows her face. But, I recevied IVF payment options WITH A CONTRACT TO SIGN this weekend from my RE's office. We never even discussed IVF!

I'm so confused. IVF is not something DH and I agree on right now :(
I'm pretty sure lots of women w/PCOS are able to conceive without IVF. I believe a lot of them are able to conceive with just clomid and metformin.
Did you post your own thread about it? You might get more reponses.
Hope that helps. :)

[Blondshania]

my specialist said that becuz of hubs sperm issues we would def need ivf with icsi and i mite even need my tubes removed if they are damaged before having ivf...a bit scary really

[Tictac2]

Question: I have 2 children and have been trying for one year to have another (had a MC in March 2009). I had a sonohystogram and my gynecologist said that the doctor who examined me made a note of possible polycystic ovaries. He didn't seem concerned at all. Is it possible to get PCOS now (at the age of 36) even though I've had two very healthy pregnancies?

[AnnaBoop]

Question: I have 2 children and have been trying for one year to have another (had a MC in March 2009). I had a sonohystogram and my gynecologist said that the doctor who examined me made a note of possible polycystic ovaries. He didn't seem concerned at all. Is it possible to get PCOS now (at the age of 36) even though I've had two very healthy pregnancies?

I believe it could be possible. I have a good friend who had 3 girls with no trouble whatsoever and then later developed PCOS.
It probably wouldn't hurt to get further testing done. :)

[Tictac2]

What type of testing? My gynecologist/obstetrician is also an infertility expert. He didn't seem concerned with the results from the ultrasound/echovist/sonohystogram that I had done.

[AnnaBoop]

What type of testing? My gynecologist/obstetrician is also an infertility expert. He didn't seem concerned with the results from the ultrasound/echovist/sonohystogram that I had done.
I believe they check testosterone levels and insulin as well...I'm not completely positive on that since I haven't been tested myself.
You may wish to check out this site: http://www.pcosupport.org/
It may help to check their symptoms page and see if you have any.

[Tictac2]

Thank you. Reading the symptoms made me feel a bit better. I don't seem to have any symptoms (other than oilyish skin and having trouble trying to get pregnant now).

[KMPsMom040711]

I am making an doctor appointment today. I think I could possibly have PCOS! I have been trying to keep myself from getting to down about it until I get checked out. But based on the "symptoms" of PCOS, I am pretty sure this is what it is! :(

[SammyGirl]

Hey Everyone! My name is Samantha. Just recently me and my husband have decided to try and have a baby but I went to the doctors because my periods have been irregular this past year; and he diagnosed me with slight PCOS. (but I'm confused because I still get my period) I have an appointment 24th of August for a follow-up. To help out the process I just started using ovulation tests to see if I even ovulate and Im going to start charting my body temperature; just reading up on everything right now so I know I'm doing it right. I would really like some advice; would really appreciate it. Thanks:winks:

[Katetastrophe]

Hey Everyone! My name is Samantha. Just recently me and my husband have decided to try and have a baby but I went to the doctors because my periods have been irregular this past year; and he diagnosed me with slight PCOS. (but I'm confused because I still get my period) I have an appointment 24th of August for a follow-up. To help out the process I just started using ovulation tests to see if I even ovulate and Im going to start charting my body temperature; just reading up on everything right now so I know I'm doing it right. I would really like some advice; would really appreciate it. Thanks:winks:
you don't have to have NO periods to get PCOS. I still have mine, they're just further apart than they should be, and can be very unpredictable.

[queenj919]

for ladies on met, do we continue taking it through out the pregnancy? I had to stop it for my reversal surgery but now I'm back on it. ugh, I hate the side effects. I've been on it since last june but it's like I'm starting all over.

[mommytoababyangel]

My doctor wants me to take MET....for the first 10-12 weeks then I go on shots.Really just depends on the doctor.

[michellespencer97]

Hi, I just found out I have POS. We should have been checked along time ago.I found out while I was having Endo removed. We have been trying for 8 yrs for another baby. My son is turning 9 and really wants a little sister.: ) Today is my last day on Provera and I think I may be starting. YAY!! lol It's really light so i'm not sure. Dr. said I would know but I've never been regular so I never know what my body will do. Hopefully it is so I can get to the other pill and begin trying AGAIN to get pregnant. Well that's all for now. I'm tired and can't think straight. lol I'm just rambling. My story is very long and crazy, but that's for another day.

[starsgoblu]

Well ladies I am a PCOS old timer. I have had it for 9 years. It can occur at any age and it is able to reverse itself. I have reversed mine alot, but the damage it did to my body is still very real. I was told at age 15 I will never have children and if I plan on having any kids at all, I will have to have medical assistance just to get PG.
I have GERD, type 2 diabetes, joint issues, cystic acne, and hypertension because of PolyCystic Ovarian Syndrome. I was told 6 months ago that I am able to get PG, but the doctors don't know why I am not staying PG because right now I have no cysts on my ovaries. I have regular cycles of 27 days and I ovulate CD 13 to 16.
If you think you might have PCOS it's sooo important to push the issue and get your doctor to do blood work and an ultrasound! I was diagnosed by ultrasound. My blood work was perfect, but I was 200lbs by age 13. My doctor knew I had it and kept doing all the testing she could until the last test was a u/s and sure enough my ovaries were clustered with cysts. I have one of the worst cases every documented in the midwest according to my 6 OB/GYN's and the endocrinologists that saw my file. After the u/s they did more extensive testing...I had the testosterone level of a 15 year old boy at the time...I have done birth control and diabetic medication. Nothing worked until I went on depo for a 2nd time and then I started loosing weight. I went from 250 to 195. And right now I'm at 200 and I'm an insulin dependent type 2 diabetic with hypertension and everything else. So if you all have any questions about the treatments of anything, you can PM me.

[michellespencer97]

Hi again. Tomorrow I start taking my Clomid.YAY!! I so hope this works the first round.

[Toad1979]

Hey all. New member here.
Just wanted to start out by saying how I loved reading all the stories... makes me feel not alone! I've never known anyone else diagnosed with PCOS.
I was on BCP for 10-15 years or so... went off in the beginning of 2006. Got pregnant in August and miscarried at the end of October. For most of 2007, we really weren't trying at all. As I said on the "TTC after loss" board, I was hoping in the back of my mind that it would just happen, but it never did.
The time between my periods (all throughout 2007) was long - one month would be 40 days, the next would be closer to 50 days. I had a feeling it wasn't normal, but I never had normal periods to begin with. That was the whole reason I went on the pill when I was so young (plus, I also had a HUGE cyst). Anyway, when we decided to start trying again, a few months go by with nothing happening. I was doing OPK (they worked for me the first time I got pregnant). Went to the doc and she orderd a blood test and it comes back that I'm not ovulating. So, I go on clomid and the second month it worked for me. Miscarried at like 6-7 weeks (this was in June of 2008).
After that I went to see a fertility specialist. Not only did he suspect that I had endometriosis, but he said I had PCOS. I was a little confused - I'm not overweight, don't have excess hair, don't have any symptoms what-so-ever, except that I don't ovulate. He said that not every women that is diagnosed with this has the same symptoms.
Long story short (well kind of), all my fertility tests came back negative. I had laparoscopy/hysteroscopy in Aug. 2008 to remove lots of endo. Got the go ahead and try again at the end of October. November, December, January - NOTHING. No BFP. As the mental strain was seriously getting to me, I decided to go off clomid - I was only on 50mg and HATED it!!! Well, what's weird is that my periods have been normal since then and I've had positive ovulation tests. The nurse at the clinic said that I'm probably ovulating on my own which is good. What sucks is that it still hasn't happened yet. We did take most of the summer off though - we just started trying again this month.
I guess what I'm wondering about is the PCOS... I would love some input from anyone! I dont' know if I really have it, or if he was off on his diagnoses? I do need to go back and see him, but it's so expensive! Anyone else out there like this? I actually got pregnant the first two times pretty easy! It's so frustrating not knowing what is going on with your body!!!:ohno:

[starsgoblu]

I don't think he diagnosed with you PCOS or he would have told you. PCOS can just occur and it can also reverse itself. And it's very true not every woman has the same issues with PCOS. Sometimes it just takes one medication failing to actually getting the body going again.
If you are concerned, just call. It's your medical records, so you have access to them! As long as you are Oing and you're having regular cycles I think now it's just a matter of timin1g. DH and I BD from cycle day 9 to 19. KUP!! I'm stalking you!

[Smplyme89]

I read through most of this thread and just wanted to say thank you to all you ladies who shared your stories!! My doctor told me today he suspects PCOS, so its nice to hear some success stories!!

[starsgoblu]

Oh yeah..I also wanted to add that I have excessive body hair because of PCOS....I am not afraid to admit that I have excessive butt hair....We all have it, but mine is very noticeable and darker than the hair on the rest of me...so I wanted to just put that out there. So if you have it...don't be scared...it's normal!

[Smplyme89]

:lol: I have a hairy butt too and hairy big toes :shame:
Hm... I never thought about it, but DH's butt is royally hairy as well (I wonder if he has PCOS too):laugh:
^^^Ignore me I am sleep deprived:headbang:

[starsgoblu]

:lol: I have a hairy butt too and hairy big toes :shame:
Hm... I never thought about it, but DH's butt is royally hairy as well (I wonder if he has PCOS too):laugh:
^^^Ignore me I am sleep deprived:headbang:

Hey...you never know...:laugh:

My DH doesn't have a hairy butt...he has a patch of hair on his back..:shocker: just a patch. No chest hair or other back hair..just this patch...it's soo weird!

[Smplyme89]

Just a patch? :laugh: That is too funny! Maybe he would let you wax it :shocker:

[starsgoblu]

No...he won't. I already asked.:laugh:

[Smplyme89]

Just wanted to update... Doctor confirmed PCOS and has given me Provera to force a period... After that I start my first round of clomid (50 mg) so wish me luck!!:fingerscrossed:

[starsgoblu]

That's soo awesome!! Come on BFP!!!

[Smplyme89]

TY!! Finished my last pill of Provera yesterday, so hoping AF shows up quickly!!! DH is glad I am done with it as well he kept calling it my witch(w/ a b) pill!! I couldn't help it I felt horrible everyday :( Oh well new cycle here I come :cheer:

[Songbird_kay]

ya, provera is not fun at all. Imagine having to take it for three months straight... ya, i had to do that. it sux, bad.

[kara121303]

Hi Everyone. I was just diagnosed yesterday with PCOS. Before then I haven't heard anything about it. I am hoping to learn from all of you ladies who have it.
Here is my history. Been TTC for 6 years after M/C. Sought medical help in January. Was diagnosed with Ashermans and had surgery to correct this. Still no PG after. I was using Ovulation kits but it would never show up that I was ovulating. My cycles are always different ranging from 26 days to 36 days. And flow is only 1-2 days and very light.
I gained 25 lbs this year and have no idea how. I haven't changed my diet or exercise plan. Also have extra body hair. I will be having an ultra sound next month to confirm no ovulation and starting clomid on the cycle after that. I really have just started looking into these topics, so I am hoping I can learn alot from this forum
Thanks for listening :) Kara

[queenj919]

Question for you gals: Is it more likely for me to have a BFN with the PCOS? I've been gaining weight lately and my boobies are sore. Every time I poas, it's negative. I'm thinking about scheduling a blood test since it's more accurate, right?

[Katetastrophe]

It's been a while since anyone posted in here, but Starsgoblu - your problem with staying pregnant makes me wonder about your progesterone levels and luteal phase defect. You should ask your doctor about these possibilities. If your luteal phase (time between ovulation and period) is too short, or if your progesterone is too low, it could be the cause of your recurrent miscarriages.

[tucher]

Hey, I'm 29 and too have pco. Here my short profile, I had cervix chancer in the statium and they done a Koni on me and since than i'm on medformin every pap came back ok ever since but i can't seem to get pregnant since 4 years sigh. after having 2 light pos. test 4 month ago and right after that 2 neg. I don't know anymore. but anyway even though with my pco i have my periode only 1 or 2 days every 24 days so i'm still hoping and praying to get blessed too...

[megansterkel]

here is a little bit about me...
My husband and I were TTC since a few months after we were married (Jan 09). My period came randomly (every 2 months, every 4 months etc). I talked to my GYN and she said it was totally normal seeing as how I had been on the pill for 8 years and was just coming off of it. I didn't buy it. I knew that there was something else going on. After a year of heartbreaking BFN's, I decided to go to a different (and better!) doctor in April 2010. He ran a bunch of tests and gave me an ultrasound and confirmed that I had PCOS. He started me on Clomid (50 mg). With a failure last month, I returned to the dr this afternoon...he gave me another ultrasound and upped my dosage of Clomid (100mg).

Here's to a new month (and hopefully a baby!! :) )

[mika]

Considering our age. I will be 38 on January 1st and he will be 41 next month. Before we conceived DD in 2002 we saw this RE who did an HSG and ovarian drilling on and we were pg with her two months later. SInce we have conceived one soy baby (she was clomid)

We suffered a natural loss in January. We have insurance but of course infertility is not covered. All previous course of treatment with that doctor was under PCOS and endometrios (I had a little of that too)

Should we go this route again? Does anyone have an idea how much an IUI costs without insurance coverage for it?

Thoughts????

[AuGratin]

I was diagnosed with PCOS through ultrasound when I was 26 - lots of scarring and many cysts of varying sizes in there. I didn't do anything about it until last year. My insulin tests were borderline and the doc decided not to put me on metformin "yet". Tests showed I've got the extra testosterone and my progesterone and estrogen are out of whack. I'm pretty sure I ovulate most of the time because I can feel it, but my cycles are weird lengths, varying between 20 and 45 days. The doctor put me on birth control to regulate my cycles. He suggested that we won't be able to get pregnant without "more assistance".

2 years ago, I got pregnant on our first try and miscarried at 10 weeks. Since then, we tried getting pregnant for a year and a half and had no success. The doctor suggested some expensive treatments, and then my husband and I had some marital issues which made us put the brakes on TTC.

DH and I are doing better than ever now in the relationship department, but I'm scared to TTC, scared of the let downs, scared of miscarrying again. Miscarrying truly was one of the hardest things I've ever gone through and a small part of me would rather never try again than go through the loss of another pregnancy.

I'm now starting law school in just two weeks. I'm 31 years old. I figure we can start trying again when I'm 33 or so. That way, if we can't do it ourselves, at least I'll have a career that might help pay for the other treatments or for adoption. I don't know much about PCOS and would really appreciate book or website recommendations if anybody has them.

Thanks ladies. Nice to meet you all.

[AndreaDay]

I have also stuggled so much in my TTC journey, and I have also taken a year long break from it all. I was diagnosed with PCOS after a cyst ruptured and I ended up in the hospital ER. I had absolutely no idea I had PCOS or what the heck it was, which scared me half to hell. DH and I got married in 12/04 and were TTC aggressively. I went to a wonderful specialist whom was highly recommended in my area and he had me on a nice cocktail of meds which included: Metformin 1500mg daily, Prometrium for AF, and Femara to help me OV. After just my first cycle on Femara I finally got my first BFP but it did not last long. I MC during my 6th wk of pregnancy and sadly had not gotten PG since and have suffered with depression. Though my DH and myself have stopped TTC or took a much deserved break from it all, we are now focusing on other things in our lives. My AF since the MC has been non-existent so I remembered the RE once told me that taking BCP could help to regulate my cycles so that is where we are now, not actively TTC but on hold to get my body into better shape. Today I take my last dose of BCP from my the first packet so here's hoping AF will show herself this month. Best wishes to us all who have struggled so very much and to those who've experienced loss.

[jrandmarsha]

I am going to be 22 in a few weeks and was Dx with pcos about 5 years ago, as well as stage 4 endo. ttc more then anything! Was on metformin 1500mg a day and could not handle side effects so i stopped after about 6mo, now my RE had me start again last week.. so I am on 750 now to slowly get into it.

[bellasmom06]

I am not a very good story teller but I think its important to share my story since we are all here inthe same boat.It was 2001 and I was 20 yrs old when I was Dx with PCOS. I had a cyst burst and the doctor told me after my u/s that my ovaries looked like chocolate chip cookies with all he cysts on them. Up to this point I was fairly regular with all my periods, but I had started gaining wieght...fast. I had gained 40lbs from Feb to June. Alot of weight to gain for only being like 140lbs. After that periods became very irregular i was put on BCP and told this will help. I was with my husband at the time but we werent married...yet. I went for years like this, on and off BCPs, gaining weight and stupid embarrassing excessive hair. Since my husband and I werent really trying for a baby we werent too concerned that i wasnt becoming pregnant. In October 2005 we finally got married. In December 2004 we got pregnant (xmas day to be exact).It was great I lost 30lbs after i gave birth but gained 60 back within a year !! When my daughter turned 1 we decided we really wanted another. So fast forward to today and I am still not pregnant. I have started seeing a new doctor and now I am on the right dosage of metformin( my other doc only put me on 500mgs instead of 1500) And now I feel like I am on the right track. I got my first AF ( a little one) after 5 months I thinkits only my 3rd of the year lol. Now I am starting to do all the tracking stuff like temps and mucus and OPKs. It is very intimidating for me. Does anyone have advice for me any is welcome

[rebeccaw0511]

I was diagnosed with PCOS about 3 to 4 years ago. I am now 20 years old and have been trying to get pregnant for the last 3 years! nothing is happening. I'm on Metformin and spironolactone now for 2 months. I am not diabetes based PCOS but i am testosterone based PCOS. I am only on the Metformin to ovulate so I can become pregnant. I am gettting very impaitient about getting pregnant! I went to a psychic (crazy or not) and they said its going to take a while before i get pregnant. and my doctor doesnt know when but she doesnt think any time soon!!!! I really really really need and want a baby to raise and love. I have been pregnant before and miscarried at 6 months with twins. had D&C and havent been able to get prego since! my mom went through 7+ years of infertility and women problems are HIGH in my family!! I dont know how to cope with any of this! ive tracked my BBT and it looks like ive been ovulating but i dont know! and i just need some way of copeing with this!

[rochan]

PCOS causes cancer and heart disease. I really think that there is a huge correlation b/t the 2, seeing how PCOS is underdiagnosed and how heart dz is the #1 killer in women. .... ...ok I'll get off the now! I sure hope that made sense..I am suffering from a nasty cold from H*&$ and it I tend to ramble and not make any sense! I Finished Provera Yesterday... Just Waiting On Af To Start Higher Dose Of Follistim And Ovidrel For This Cycle...

[Coley]

My diagnosis: Started NPP in 2007, TTC since 2010. Diagnosed with PCOS in 2009. Started Clomid in November. Currently on my third round (I missed a month). In the TWW.

I used to be on this forum a lot more in the TTC area, but TTC was becoming so stressful for me that I stopped everything related to it. I decided to come back, because I know my husband gets tired of me talking about pregnancy and babies, and I needed some support from people who understand what I'm going through. Now that I'm back, I realize I'm STC because we've been at this for a couple of years.

I finally got a new doctor, who is more aggressive in his treatments than the last doctor. He's determined to see me PG before my 35th birthday next year. Yay for aggressive doctors!

I used to chart, but stopped charting because it was more stressful than anything I've ever done in my life. Within 3 cycles of not charting, I was almost normal, with 28 to 32 day cycles, which gave me a lot of hope. Still we did not conceive. Now, on Clomid, I'm having 28-29 day cycles and it is wonderful. I used OPKs successfully this cycle, and since they have never worked on me before, I was ecstatic to finally get smileys!

Anyway, just wanted to reintroduce myself to the group and hope to be able to offer my support to all of you!

[djackson123]

I'm another PCOS'er and I wish you the best of luck with your new RE!! Sounds like you've found a great match!

[CamaLamaMama]

I am not STC or even TTC, just got my diagnosis of PCOS today and am trying to learn more about it and what I can do about it. This is the only place that I see with any PCOS info in the forums. I am gonna read through the thread to get some info and I hope its ok if I post some questions here. :)