Getting passed along

Julius · 12-01-2004, 11:57 PM

My RE has decided to refer me to someone else. I can't say I'm disappointed as the RE seems to spend more time telling me to convince my boyfriend to marry me before I get too old than he does discussing anything PCOS related.

My research has uncovered that this new doc (appointment next week) is a) a female (silent sigh of relief) but b) an endocrinologist/metabologist.

the a) part is cool by me. I haven't seen a female doctor in years and the last one I saw was amazing. Part b) I'm not totally sure how that factors into the whole PCOS thing. I'm not ttc, which I think is why the RE is passing me off.

Anyone care to give me their opinions? Or share any endocrin. stories? Anything?

thanks.

phouka · 12-02-2004, 01:21 AM

Because more and more doctors are finally realizing that PCOS is less of a gynecological disorder than it is an endocrine disorder, it makes perfect sense for your former doc to send you to an endocrinologist.

Which kind of sounds like the coolest thing he's ever done for you.

cec414 · 12-02-2004, 02:36 AM

I think it's great you are going to see an endocrinologist because that practice deals with the underlying root of PCOS, the hormonal imbalance. I am currently seeing a female endocrinologist and she not only monitors my hormones every few months but also my lipids such as triglycerides and insulin, which can also be worsened by PCOS. She also caught a pituitary tumor that had to be removed that was secreting an excess of prolactin and growth hormone so I am glad I have someone monitoring my hormones. Gynecologists can monitor you for tissue irregularities associated with not getting your period, if you are one of those who don't, and can write prescriptions for BC pills if you need to induce a period or want to clear up your acne a little bit, but they don't work on the insulin resistance side of PCOS and that's where the Endocrinologists step in. Good luck, do your research before going, demand answers, and get a new doctor if you get the brush off!!

Julius · 12-02-2004, 02:36 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by phouka
Which kind of sounds like the coolest thing he's ever done for you.

ha! I never thought of it that way - thanks for the perspective!

I'm keeping my fingers crossed that this doc will be more willing to help me.

Julius · 12-02-2004, 02:57 AM

cec - weird, we were responding at the same time.

I'm glad you've had success with a 'regular' endo - especially in regards to the tumor.

It's funny - I was diagnosed years ago and consider myself fairly well-educated on PCOS, but I still think of it primarily a gyn. issue.

Now I'm looking forward to this appointment. Time to take back control of my health!