PCOS or just the way I am? - Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Message Board

howdoihelp · 06-20-2006, 11:52 AM

I was diagnosed with PCOS as a teenager without any tests (just by symptoms). I went on birth control and that helped give me regular periods and decreased the hair growth, acne, etc.

In my early 20s, I had a full battery of tests--blood, urine, etc.--but everything was "okay." I assumed that my PCOS was just being controlled. I also had two ultrasounds and my ovaries were clear. Again, I assumed that the birth control was just supressing my symptoms.

I had another blood test last week and "everything was okay." They ran the blood test because I complained of increased acne, difficulting losing weight, and increased hair growth, which I thought were indicators that my PCOS was out of control.

Now I'm beginning to think that maybe I don't have PCOS at all and never did. Maybe I'm just acne-prone, hairy, and overweight?

I'm not really sure what my question is...should I pursue further testing or just accept these "symptoms" are part of who I am?

tiredandsick · 06-20-2006, 01:08 PM

I think it is time for you get a second opinion from a reproductive endocrinologist if you are not already seeing one. What does OK mean? Who is defining that?

It is not normal to have irregular mentrual cycles. This issue is controlled by hormones and if the hormones are out of whack then your ovaries don't work correctly.

Maybe PCOS is not the right diagnosis but rest assured that there is a hormone issue causing your symptoms. It might be worthwhile looking at all the options for female hormone imbalance.

And also.....who is to say what is normal for your body. The numbers are on a range and if you don't fall into the range then they declare you "not sick". Some people have thyroid issues that do not fall in the prescribed range and therefore they aren't treated even if they exhibit all the symptoms.

best of luck.