#PCOS treatment

[tooedgyforbrunch]

Girlies with PCOS send me your tips and things that have worked for you. I’ve gained so much weight and losing it has been difficult. I feel so uncomfortable in my skin and it’s been very deflating to be honest.

[spaghettimakesflags]

PCOS pride flag

[roisinivy]

September is PCOS Awareness month. Last year I made a post including all of the common symptoms. As it's nearly a year since my diagnosis, I thought I would share my story of being diagnosed...

I started showing symptoms of having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS for short) when I was 14, in 2018. I went 9 months without a period, started growing body hair in places that are not considered 'normal' for women, gained a lot of weight, started getting very oily skin and acne.

When my mum queried this with a doctor, she was told I was just a teenager having an irregular phase and that no doctor would seriously look at a diagnosis for me until I was at least 16.

(what my mum didn't know is that I was being groomed and had been assaulted, which is when I developed binge eat disorder, which also accounted for the weight gain...)

By the time I had turned 16 in 2020, covid had put the uk into a second national wide lockdown and completely ruined an already struggling NHS.

I didn't see a doctor about my PCOS until a month before I turned 19, due to all of the backlog.

My doctor ordered a blood test, and an ultrasound of my ovaries at a nearby hospital. The blood test was completed within a week, but it took me 6 weeks to get my first scan. I am still a virgin, and due to being sexually assaulted when I was younger, I was extremely nervous about having something in me and to have a nurse/doctor see me like that.

The external ultrasound was incredibly painful, having a bladder full of two liters of water pushing down onto you. The nurse couldn't get a good enough view, so I went to relive myself before having what would be my first of three ultrasounds.

The nurse took one look at my scan and confirmed I definitely had polycystic ovaries, she could also see I had ovulated. I knew I would be having my first period in 4 months in December of 2023. This was the last period I had, it was the worst I'd had in a very long time.

On my first scan, a large cyst was spotted, so I would need a second one due to the size of it. It was roughly the size of a ping-pong ball. My ovaries are also swollen to about three times the size they should be.

By my second scan, it had disappeared. I had a third as a precaution, which was also clear of anything concerning.

I then started taking Cerelle birth control in February.

I have had two bartholin cysts (infection of the vagina), hives, extremely sore breasts on and off, nausea, low libido, acne, increased body weight, tiredness, rashes and so much more caused by my birth control...

But it's preventing me from having an increased risk of developing cancer when I'm older, masking my symptoms so that I can have a 'normal' life whilst living with PCOS.

Although I still grow a better beard than my 18 year old brothers thanks to the increase androgen lol

I don't know how long I'll stay on birth control, or if I'll have to use other treatments, but this is my PCOS journey so far.

[kiestrokes]

After 4 years of actively trying to figure out what is going on with my uterus. 4 different primary care doctors. 3 different OBGYN’s. Countless internal ultrasounds.

We have an official PCOS diagnosis and plan to fix it, that does not involve birth control (because before anything else I am a migraine sufferer first).

All of this to say, if you’re having these problems just keep searching until you find a doctor who will listen to you. Don’t be afraid to question them.

[martiansodas-blog]

hey.

if youre a girl and you relate to the “between 3 and 5pm is nap time”, you should get checked for pcos.

that is adrenal fatigue.

[whypcos]

[sunflowerinpearls]

[generalhealthcareinkarnal]

Best Food for PCOS - Opting for healthy fats, lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables may help reduce the risk of PCOS. 

[pcosdiva123]

How to Lose Weight with PCOS: 8 Helpful Tips

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects millions of women worldwide, and one of its most challenging symptoms is weight gain. The hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS can make losing weight particularly difficult. However, with the right approach, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is possible. Here are eight helpful tips for losing weight with PCOS.

Focus on a Low Glycemic Index (GI) Diet

Women with PCOS often have insulin resistance, which can lead to weight gain. A low GI diet can help manage insulin levels and reduce cravings:

Choose complex carbohydrates like whole grains, legumes, and vegetables

Avoid processed foods and sugary snacks

Include protein and healthy fats with each meal to slow down sugar absorption

Example meal: Grilled chicken breast with quinoa and roasted vegetables.

2. Increase Protein Intake

Protein is crucial for weight loss, especially for women with PCOS:

Helps you feel fuller for longer

Supports muscle mass, which boosts metabolism

Aids in balancing blood sugar levels

Aim for lean protein sources like fish, poultry, tofu, or legumes at each meal.

3. Incorporate Regular Exercise

Physical activity is essential for managing PCOS symptoms and promoting weight loss:

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week

Include both cardio and strength training in your routine

Try activities like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling

Consider HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) for efficient fat burning

Remember, consistency is key. Find activities you enjoy to make exercise a sustainable habit.

4. Manage Stress Levels

Chronic stress can worsen PCOS symptoms and make weight loss more challenging:

Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga

Prioritize self-care and relaxation time

Consider talking to a therapist or counselor for additional support

Reducing stress can help balance hormones and reduce stress-related eating.

5. Prioritize Sleep

Adequate sleep is crucial for weight management and hormone balance:

Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night

Establish a consistent sleep schedule

Create a relaxing bedtime routine

Avoid screens before bed

Good sleep hygiene can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce cravings.

6. Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is often overlooked but is essential for weight loss:

Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily

Replace sugary drinks with water or herbal teas

Consume water-rich foods like cucumbers and watermelon

Staying hydrated can help reduce false hunger cues and support overall health.

7. Consider Supplements

Some supplements may aid in PCOS management and weight loss:

Inositol: May improve insulin sensitivity and ovulation

Omega-3 fatty acids: Can reduce inflammation and support hormone balance

Vitamin D: Often deficient in women with PCOS and important for overall health

Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

8. Practice Mindful Eating

Mindful eating can help you develop a healthier relationship with food:

Eat slowly and without distractions

Pay attention to hunger and fullness cues

Choose nutrient-dense foods that nourish your body

Avoid restrictive diets that may lead to binge eating

Mindful eating can help prevent overeating and promote a balanced approach to nutrition.

Conclusion:

Losing weight with PCOS can be challenging, but it's not impossible. By focusing on a low GI diet, increasing protein intake, exercising regularly, managing stress, prioritizing sleep, staying hydrated, considering appropriate supplements, and practicing mindful eating, you can create a sustainable approach to weight loss.

Remember that everyone's journey is different, and it's essential to be patient and kind to yourself. Small, consistent changes often lead to the most sustainable results. If you're struggling with weight loss or PCOS management, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian who specializes in PCOS for personalized advice and support.

With dedication and the right strategies, you can achieve your weight loss goals and improve your overall health while managing PCOS. Stay positive, stay consistent, and celebrate every small victory along the way!

[ysapawithfeelings]

Teleporting back to 2018

Dear 2018 self,

I can’t deny I miss you sometimes and the kind of life you were leaning to back then, but I also can’t deny how thankful I am for how far you’ve come. Is it possible to feel proud and humbled at the same time? I think there are very rare intersection points in one’s life when that can happen.

I look back and I can still feel the pain and anguish of dealing with polycystic ovaries: the obesity, the hairy arms, the falling hair, the persistent acne, the severe bleeding that lasted weeks-on-end, the anemia and fluctuating blood sugar, the constant struggle of enduring dysmenorrhea, the medicines (oh God, the medicines); the self-worth questioning, the self-loathing, the horrible days you just didn’t want to be around people, but you really had no choice. Hey, the list can go on all day.

I feel like hugging you and assuring you everything will turn out okay. That you will go through hell and back and back again, but you will make it. That the quest of rediscovering yourself and the lengths of what you can do to fulfill THAT is amazing; and that starting over from scratch at 30+ years of age is not only possible—it’s doable. Gasgas na itong linyang ‘to, but it only gets even truer with time: what a journey it has been.

To everyone suffering from PCOS and obesity, I see you. You’re not alone. The fight against it will, unfortunately, last forever—because it can come back. Every now and then, I feel paralyzing fear that it will come back, especially when I know I’ve gained weight. Still, there are days I refuse to move at all because exercise is not only exhausting; it can get pretty boring. Aminin na natin. :p

But that’s why it’s so important to look back. I think that’s the secret weapon. The secret ingredient. The secret that’s not really a secret because everyone has known it all along. Lumingon para maalalang malayo pa, pero malayo na.

Mahigpit na yakap sa lahat ng mga may problema sa matres, sa timbang, sa mga kamag-anak o kakilala nating mahilig pumuna ng mali o kulang sa’yo (kahit wala namang silang kahit anong ambag sa buhay mo), at higit sa lahat: sa pagiging babae. Womanhood is A LOT of things; being easy will never be one of them.

I write this letter with love and forgiveness for my 2018 self. I may weigh some kilos less now, but I will keep on looking back and loving you more each time that I do. And I write this letter with love for all the women battling against this f*cking ugly disease. We can fight it together. Let’s root for each other.

Love,

2024 me

[vaerjs]

chiedo anche qui: sapete se ci sono studi sulle correlazioni tra sindrome dell'ovaio policistico (pos) e allenamento calisthenics? Tipo analisi dei livelli di cortisolo, allenamento ad alta o bassa intensità, ecc., ...

[tooedgyforbrunch]

Has anyone with pcos been able to successfully regulate their sleep naturally?

[radiocurrency]

I had a fun experience this week while trying to discover why I won't stop bleeding

[whypcos]

[unfoldingrose]

Pearl Power

Key

Underlined green text = links

Pink = anagrams [orthographically, phonetically, syntactically]

Bold = emphasis

Note: Please read/listen to required links; only optional links are labeled optional

Polycystic Ovaries 

The “-cystic” in polycystic ovarian syndrome is characterized by what appears to be “string of pearls” on the ovaries. These pearls are raised follicles that occur during all women’s proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle. During this phase, oocytes begin to mature in preparation for ovulation. Because those w PCOS experience endocrine-metabolic dysfunction, the oocyte maturation process of the proliferative phase struggles to take place; lessening both the regularity and strength of ovulation. As a result, a trail of immature ovarian follicles is left on the ovary, likening themselves to small cysts- or string of pearls. This is important to understand being that “polycyst” is a misnomer. The ovaries of a person w/ PCOS is not that of someone experiencing true cysts- which are masses of tissue that form in the ovary. These “polycysts” are simply immature ovarian follicles. 

[[click ‘ALT’ in bottom left corner of picture above]]

The Lore::Role::Lure::Rule of Pearl

The Lore:

Pearl formation has been a mystery for scientists for some time now- specifically the origins of the material that creates pearls. Nacre::Mthr of Pearl. Nacre not only occurs in pearl body, but also in the inner shells of a certain mollusk families. Both freshwater and oceanic mollusks produce pearls- but water pollution and habitat loss has contributed to the reduction of natural pearls. To curb this loss, cultured pearl farming accounts for the majority of pearls in the market today. [[Side note: I correlate freshwater and oceanic mollusk population reduction with the rise of strange medical issues like PCOS.]]

Nacre gives pearls an otherworldly strength for its size, and a rainbow sheen. Material scientists work tirelessly to synthetically recreate the nano-structure of nacre. The process of nacre is key to understanding just how ancient it is. [Read 1st link in this paragraph::find and highlight ‘coacervates’ in said article::delve into coacervates:: it will lead you to proto cell life of Early Earth]. Is it possible that the mystery behind the origins of nacre is that it’s processes are too advanced/ancient to recreate? I’d say so. That’s the Power of Pearl; it is a solid form of an Older-than-Old plasmatic aqueous phase; the same liquids that created first cell life, hardened by the dance of Calcium Carbonate, Aragonite and proteins. A morsel from before, yesterday, today, and tomorrow. The reason why pearls sometimes shape themselves as tears 💧💧💧💧.

It is said that pearls are formed via the nacreous envelopment of an irritant. If something as minuscule as a grain of sand enters the mollusk and irritates the softness of its flesh, the mollusk will layer by layer overwhelm it with nacre. I see this similar to a spider weaving it’s prey, leaving behind a little pearled prey mummy to eat for later. Pearls/mollusk shells resemble the movement of silk fabric suspended in time, and comparatively spiders quite literally weave with incredibly tough silk. The difference between the mollusk and spider: the spider primarily weaves as an offense. To consume. The mollusk encapsulates as defense. To make peace of its pain.

Furthermore, throughout history there has been a fascination w finding the perfect pearl- for this reason, completely spherical pearls were favored most amongst the aristocracy of various lands. Freshwater mollusks are more likely to produce uniquely shaped pearls rather than spherical. The odd shapes are my personal favorite. As I see every person w PCOS a pearl unto her own unique iridescence, luster, origin, and shape. She simply has to realize it.

Pearls have also been associated with chastity, purity, royalty, wealth, and wisdom. It was a surprise to me, according to this article, that pearls have historical planetary associations with both the Moon *and* Venus. In my Artemisia write up, I noted how Artemisia is not only a lunar plant, but also a venusian one as well- as it is one of the main physical and psycho-spiritual menders of PCOS. 

The Lore of pearls gives us the sayings, “pearls of wisdom,” “the world is your oyster,” and the warning not to “cast your pearls among swine.”

The Role:

I am of the volition that all aspects of an “illness” exist to tell the person experiencing it a story. To tell those touched by someone experiencing an “illness” a story also. To give clues as to how to heal themselves and/or others. To mend the relationship between body, environment, mind, spirit, soul. It is vexing- the signature of a string of pearls. Pearls, being a symbol of beauty- juxtaposed with a condition that leaves people feeling less than beautiful in most cases. The strange hair growth, the unwanted weight gain, the hair loss, the fatigue, and subsequent fertility loss (SN: fertility has more to do with vitality than just producing a baby). 

What are pearls aiming to tell us? Their role? Surely more than skin deep... 

The Lure:

Cool, Random Resources: [OPTIONAL]

Pearl Exhibition

Freshwater Mussles of Midwest

List of Fresh Water Mussels in US and Canada

Ancient Oysters

The Rule of Pearl:

Characteristics of Pearl::Nacre:

- strong, yet light 

[ ^ to be strong throughout life woes, hormonal fluctuations, disappointments, trauma, karma, neglect. To remain light in the middle of it all- to let go of heavy shit.]

- resistant to breaking via compression; spreads to areas of lower pressure, whilst maintaining core tensile strength

[ ^ know where your strength comes from- and let it be unbreakable. Adapt in new ways when faced w pressure]

- transforms invaders/insults to injuries into timeless treasures 

[ ^ a strong immune system; in body, in mind, and spirit]

- beauty as a by-product of its defense mechanism

[ ^ have a defense mechanism; all life has one; let it be beautiful. Defense mechanism is not the same thing as boundaries. We impose boundaries onto ourselves; defense mechanisms are inherent/instinctual. When one reliquishes its defense mechanism because of shame, fear of being a bad person, religious morality, being told as a child that it is wrong to defend yourself- your defense will in turn, turn on you. Give it room to protect you, instead of hating it]

- fully restores its original build and mechanical strength during decompression

[ ^ relaxation, self-expression, however that looks, is rejuvenating; it restores functioning metabolic-endocrine-nervous system/synthesis. It fortifies you for those unpredictable pressures]

- light reflects from its interior surface, interferes with the light reflecting from its outer surface 

[^ the best work is internal work. The iridescence onlookers see is a result of this inner work]

- a string of immature oocytes

[ ^ the call to mature, as a woman, into and unto yourself]

In this way, those w polycystic ovaries can begin to nourish these nacre qualities within themselves as a physical, mental, and spiritual practice::praxis. I want to highlight that it only takes something as small as a grain of sand to alert::alter::altar the mollusk to begin pearling. The PCOS person carries this same sensor-tivity::sensitivity.

Practice:

cultivating the listed above

making peace w your pain

eating mussels and oysters in season, raw, grilled or smoked. Favor fruits that “cluster” like polycystic ovaries (ex. blackberries, raspberries, etc.). Allow this signature to guide you in your own way to healing yourself.

eating pears in season. See the pear in pearl.

giving thanks to the fresh waters and oceans that produce your food and jewelry.

being aware of environmental abominations in place that allow for the polluting of fresh water.

[tundesweb]

Page from my PCOS Survival Guide