MuddinMomma

So, I went to a new doctor today with high hopes of getting some answers. After she did my pap, we talked about getting my periods regulated. Before I could even mention the Metformin, she did, so I was relieved in that aspect. She said that it more than likely wouldn't regulate me, but it would help get my hormones back in balance. She tested my blood sugar, and since it was perfect, she said she didn't feel comfortable giving me the med just yet. I'm kinda bummed, but hopeful in a way. I have to go for an ultrasound of my uterus tomorrow b/c she wants to see how thick my lining is since November was my last period. If it's really thick, she will put me of Provera? to give me a withdrawl period.

So, my question is should I have spoken up more? Do I call her back and ask her other things? She didn't really leave me hanging, but said that not having a regualr period isn't all that big of a deal. That's what's confused me, I guess. What do you think?

August

Regarding Metformin and insulin resistance --One thing you could ask about is getting insulin tested along with glucose -fasting and perhaps at some interval like 1 or 2 hours after a meal or drinking a special "load" beverage that contain a specific amount of calories and sugar -- different doctors have different preferences on how to do the testing. Be warned - Insulin testing is pretty expensive but it might be worth it - glucose testing just tell you whether you glucose levels are in the normal range - it does not say anything about how much insulin might be required to maintain your glucose levels in the normal range.

It is not uncommon for women with PCOS - especially if the disorder has not progressed too far - to have normal glucose levels but elevated insulin levels. Elevated insulin levels can play havoc with your ovaries and your other hormones!

Also it might be a good idea to read up on tests that could be done on other hormones that might relate to PCOS - like various sex horomones and cortisol and thyroid for example. This link might be a little confusing or overwelming but it might also give you some ideas - http://www.fertilityplus.org/faq/hormonelevels.html - a better idea might be to find a book on PCOS (perhaps one written by a doctor) that has a section on various diagnotic testing for PCOS -- there is not one blood test or even a set of blood tests that really says "yes, you have PCOS" or "no, you don't have PCOS" - or if you have already been diagnosed a test that will say "this is the treatment plan that will work for you" - but still that information in the hand of a knowledgable doctor can at least be helpful in finding a treatment plan that is likely to benefit you or starting you on the path to finding one. Also don't forget - healthy lifestyle changes are very important in managing PCOS - and you might want to ask your doctor about her recomendations for things like diet and exercise and possibly vitamins and supplements.

A first appointment - is often just a starting place - so maybe it is not necessary to feel frustrated that you did not accomplish more in that one visit.