My doctor told me I had cysts on my ovaries. Does this mean I have PCOS?
Not necessarily. The presence of cysts on your ovaries does not automatically mean PCOS. You need to meet a specific criteria called Rotterdam's criteria for us to formally diagnose you as having Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.
I was diagnosed with PCOS but I see my period every month. Can this happen?
Yes. Studies have actually shown that even those people who have regular periods fail to ovulate on many occasions. It is what we call an Anovulatory cycle.
Do I have any chance of getting pregnant with PCOS?
Yes. Even though your chances are decreased due to irregularities in your cycle, you still can get pregnant. It is best to get your PCOS managed properly and work closely with your OBGYN.
I've been doing a lot of research on supplements for PCOS but there are so many. Which one do you think is most important?
I would suggest inositol. This supplement has emerged as one of the most effective supplements in managing the symptoms of PCOS and there are tons of evidence online to support this.
Do all women with PCOS have weight gain?
No, not all women with PCOS experience weight gain. There is actually a considerable percentage of women who do not experience this.
I was diagnosed with PCOS 5 years ago and was recently diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes. Are these two linked?
Yes. Insulin resistance is one of the core features of PCOS. Longstanding insulin resistance causes the pancreas to no longer keep up with the demands made upon it for insulin production. As a result, you develop Diabetes.
Is Metformin helpful for managing PCOS?
Yes, Metformin has a role in the management of PCOS. It is an insulin sensitizing agent which means it makes the cells more responsive to insulin. This results in lower fasting insulin levels and therefore is effective in achieving ovulation.
I have made the changes in my diet and routine, however, my period still has not returned. What do you think is causing this?
It depends. If you have a high BMI then that could be the culprit and weight loss could significantly improve your cycles. Otherwise, you would need to address the issue of insulin resistance, whether it be by going the natural route and taking supplements or by visiting your doctor and have medication prescribed.
