Doc just called… he saw a “string of pearls” on my ovaries, indicating probable PCOS.
*EDIT* Added 2/26/10
As Junket mentioned, Google PCOS and a lot of info comes up. I’ve been reading about it for weeks, but here are a few things I just read. As a precursor, I have no idea if my insulin levels are high or not, but I figure diet + exercise + Clomid + BBT is our best bet at the moment…
http://www.fertilityfactor.com/infertility_PCOS.html
PCOS Treatment
Women who prefer a more natural way of easing the symptoms of PCOS are frequently recommended to do so through diet and exercise. Maintaining a healthy weight has been shown to help insulin and glucose levels as well as promote fertility. Since PCOS can worsen over the years (although it should improve as you approach menopause), living a healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways to protect yourself.
—Well, it’s a good thing I’m working on this I guess!
PCOS and Pregnancy
While it is possible to become pregnant, women with PCOS tend to suffer a much higher rate of miscarriages. Estimates put the rate of miscarriages in women with PCOS at 45% although some believe the figure may be higher. However, experts aren’t sure why exactly this is. Fertility problems experienced by women with PCOS may be related to the elevated hormone, insulin, or glucose levels, all of which can interfere with implantation as well as development of the embryo. Additionally, abnormal insulin levels may also contribute to poor egg quality, making conception more difficult.
Stabilizing hormone levels can help fertility by promoting ovulation. Some doctors may also prescribe ovulation medications, such as Clomid, to encourage ovulation. If you are thinking of conceiving, be sure to discuss the issue with your doctor. Not all of the medications used to help PCOS sufferers are safe to use during pregnancy and may need to be discontinued.
Although getting pregnant can be problematic for women with PCOS, many have found it easier to get pregnant the second time around. Additionally, some women have found that their menstrual cycles regulate themselves after a pregnancy. Following a healthy diet and exercising regularly will also help to promote fertility.
For help tracking your ovulation consider using a digital basal thermometer.
Hi new friend,Just wanted to let you know I'm thinkin' about you and sending good thoughts your way from Berkeley.xoKim
:(We'll chat soon.
Google "Pregnancy with PCOS" and you'll be pleasantly surprised. (Like you haven't already done that)My godmother is an OBGYN and we've had the PCOS discussion many times. It's not a dealbreaker. It just means that when you do get that baby, you will love it and appreciate it in a way you never thought you could. You'll be able to tell your kid, "I made you even with PCOS in the way so you better get in there and finish that homework to show your appreciation."xoxo
Thanks ladies… I just added a bit more to the post. Some of it scary, some of it good. It could be worse, I know. Just not in the best of moods right now. Great way to look at things though, Junket. 🙂 Thank you.
hmmm, not the kiss of death or anything but, dislike. hang in there.
Well keep your chin up. Like you said, you are getting healthy and it sounds like the Clomid should increase your chances. When does the first round begin?
The doc called in prescriptions for me last night, so the Hubby is picking up Provera and Clomid today. I have to take the Provera for 10 days, then stop… and on the first day of ANY bleeding, start counting. Days 5-9 I'll take my first round of Clomid.
Glad to hear you are going ahead with Provera and Clomid. Just found out today the second round of Provera worked for me so I'm praying it works for you too!
@Steph – that is GREAT news!! I'm anxious to hear what you think of the Clomid.