My Journey With PCOS (Real Stories by Real Women #2)

I wouldn’t say Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is the worst disease known to man. Honestly, for me, it’s ‘not so bad.’

What I can say though is that PCOS has been life changing.

I was diagnosed with PCOS at the age of 16. I clearly remember hearing the words come out of my gynecologist’s mouth and then her handing me a printed copy entitled, “All about PCOS”. Looking back, I can’t help but laugh. I was then prescribed birth control pills (for three months), as this was the fastest way to regularize my cycle.

PCOS, for me has been an annoying acquaintance. You know that person that you know but don’t particularly want to spend time with? Yet, they always find a way to invade your space? That’s PCOS for me.

Here are three significant things I’ve had to deal with as a result of PCOS:

1. Acne

I have had days where I absolutely refuse to look in the mirror. There isn’t just one bump, not two bumps- there are many bumps. Painful bumps. In fact, I believe the correct term is ‘cystic or hormonal acne.’ Therefore, I can’t even burst them. Just when I believe the worst is over, more come up. I’ve had to battle with seeing my face change in so many ways as a result of acne.

What’s worse is the attention it brings. I really wish people would stop trying to point them out, don’t they think I know that they are very much present? Yet through it all, I’ve had to develop a thick skin. I can’t stop living my life just because of acne, right?

2. Diabetes

No, I am not diabetic and I thank God for that. However, I have been constantly warned by my doctors that I need to lower my sugar intake. Reason being, most of my blood test results show that I am pre-diabetic.

For someone who loves sweets, this was definitely a sacrifice. PCOS definitely limits what you can eat and forces you to eat the healthy stuff (yuck).

3. Irregular Cycles

I do not like taking birth control pills. I have tried the natural methods to regularize my period such as drinking and eating certain foods that would help to control PCOS. I have even at some point gone fully vegan (as short lived as that was), yet I always find myself back on the pills. This is what seems to work for me. So, for now, I will stick to this method.

Like I have said before, PCOS is that annoying acquaintance that I have had to deal with. Sometimes, I don’t remember that I am battling a disease, other times, it makes itself fully known.

I remember, at the age of 16, reading that PCOS limits the possibility of having a child. That for me was the biggest scare ever. To this day, when I reflect on my life, it is still a big fear of mine. I desire to have children, yet, I know many that have PCOS and have still given birth. So, I truly hope that I am that fortunate.

Also, I know sometimes PCOS causes excess hair growth, in all the wrong places, for example on one’s face. I have not experienced this personally, therefore, like most diseases,everyone is affected differently.

I am just thankful that I am not affected as severely. I’m grateful for ‘small’ mercies. I do wish there was a cure for PCOS, but alas, there is none. For now, I will just do my best to eat right, exercise and continue to control this disease in the best way that I can.

–Signed An Anonymous PCOS Warrior