I like to share my sister’s experience with this condition. Some of you might have the same symptoms. Or you also have the same condition and are looking for answers. You might learn a thing or two about PCOS.
When we were teenagers and whenever she had her period, she complained of menstrual cramps. Sometimes with severe headaches and vomiting. She had instances that she almost passed out. She had irregular menstruation then. Sometimes she had a month with no menstruation. And there are times that her period would last for a week.
I, too, had menstrual cramps but not as severe as hers.
We thought it was no big deal. Every girl had her menstruation dramas.
That was her menstruation suffering since high school. In 2009, she graduated from college and went to Cebu to work.
Years passed, and she still had the same symptoms whenever she had her period.
Then in 2015, after 2-3 months of not having a period (she thought she was pregnant), she went to an OB-Gyne for a consultation. She had an ultrasound test. The doctor then diagnosed her with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).
It was the first time she heard about PCOS. She had no idea (me too!) what it was and its risks and complications. So she did some research.
PCOS is a condition in which the ovaries produce an abnormal amount of androgens, male sex hormones, usually present in women in a small amount. It describes the numerous small cysts that form in the ovaries. The most common symptoms are acne, facial hair, irregular menstruation, weight gain,, infertility, and more.
Although it has no cure, there are many ways to treat PCOS. But if left untreated, it might lead to serious problems such as diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, and infertility. Stress, depression, and anxiety can also worsen PCOS.
PCOS patients are also insulin resistant. They have a high risk of developing type 2 diabetes because their bodies can make more insulin but can’t use it effectively. Insulin helps lower our blood sugar levels.
Her OB-Gyne prescribed her Metformin to control her blood sugar level and medicine to regulate her monthly menstruation. She was advised to get regular sleep, exercise, and eat more healthy foods. Fast foods, carbonated drinks, and other unhealthy foods should be avoided.
And after two years of medication, she got pregnant. But the thought of having PCOS while pregnant scared her, as pregnant women with PCOS are likely to have a miscarriage, or to develop preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, a larger baby, or premature delivery. (This scared us too!)
She joined a group on Facebook where women with PCOS shared their own experiences. She learned so much in that group on how to deal with PCOS positively and live with it.
She delivered her baby prematurely (8months) through a Caesarean procedure. But thankfully, she and her baby were in good health and condition.
PCOS is not life-threatening. But it will not go on its own. The health risks associated with this syndrome are lifelong.
With the right medication and treatment, plus a good mindset and a positive outlook in life, patients with PCOS can still live the happiest life.
