After menstruating for seven years and never being regular, I thought that I could no longer say that my irregularity was just the normal irregularity that teenage girls often experience. I decided to ask a doctor. The doctor said that it was PCOS and that my acne and unwanted facial hair was a result. I was told that the birth control pill was the best option for me because I am not wanting to get pregnant (at this time), it will help clear-up my acne, will prevent any new unwanted hairs, and will help protect me from health problems associated with PCOS. I was also told that the pill wouldn't cause an increase in blood clots because I am only 20 and I don't smoke.
I chose to do research before making a decision. All I was able to find out was that the doctor will recommend BC Pills and that weight loss is sometimes affective in treating PCOS. Though I should exercise more, I am not overweight.
So, I am posting here to see what has worked for other people. Is the pill really the best way to go?
Last edited by Simulated86; 06-05-2006 at 11:19 PM.
Have you seen an endocrinologist? I would start by getting a referral and do research on the net to make sure they are the kind that believe PCOS exists (I have an OBGYN who refuses to acknowledge it) That’s what I in my learning phase can advise. The pill I think is subjective, I am choosing not to take it but because it makes me sick. You are so young hopefully some here can advise you so this is not a hard road for you. Don't get in a dither over things Doctors tell you when they are doing tests stay calm and remember to be nice to yourself too.
Welcome!!
How much research have you done?? My periods were crazy my first year.. they kinda had a pattern, but were regular... until I had my first child, then AF visits were always a suprise... I then had 2 more children over the years.. but AF visited less often.. At that time, they called it Stein-Leventhal syndrome.. and I don't think they knew what to do.. I went to 7 different Dr.s and one tried the BC pills... put me into depression I think.. All I wanted to do, was to get home from work and sleep... that wasn't cool with kids, so I threw them away.. never made it through the first pack!! Anyhow...to make my long story short...I had a hyst at a young age... back then they thought it was an ovary problem. Now, I've found that there has been so much other kinds of treatment.. but I didn't have information to make a good choice.. it was before they knew much, and before the internet, so I really felt alone in all the problems I had... MY suggestion for you, is learn all that you can.. My favorite on this web site is on the 'research4PCOS' forum.. it's a sticky near the top titled 'required reading'.. I believe that a well educated patient , makes a good patient.. Once you understand the differences, the complexity of PCOS and how it affects every one of us in a different way.. Plus educate yourself on the different meds, and why they are to work,including BC pills.. I'm not saying you have to have it engraved in your mind, but to be familliar with it enough, so when you do talk with your DR. you'll be able to follow what he's saying, and be comfortable enough with the treatment he's suggesting.. and even being confident to request a different path you may think (based on your learning). And, you'll also then know if it's time to find a different Dr. if you feel your current Dr. isn't giving you the help you need.
PCOS is something that isn't scary, once you understand it's functions,etc...
Good luck on your PCOS journey.. post any questions you may have.. there's a great bunch of cysters here!!
Hi and Welcome to the site.
I would see an endocrinologist who actually specialies in this area. From my experiences not all doctors are very clued up about PCOS. Everyone is different so what might work for you might not work with others. Going on the Pill actually made my symptoms worse when I came off it. It didn't improve my PCOS.
Thats why its important you speak to someone who will listen to all your symptoms, give you the appropriate tests and then make a decision on your treatment based on that.
I am currently doing a low carb diet, excercise and taking fish oil. I have my first appointment with my Doc in early July to discuss PCOS and a treatment for me.
Best of Luck
sam
Nearly every cyster i have spoken to on this site has said to stay away from the pill. I personally hate it as it makes me sick and moody. I'm still pretty new to all this but i seem to have alot of my questions answered by going to the chat room and speaking to the cysters who have had pcos for a while now and have tried many different things. Also just keep posting your questions on the boards and they will always be answered. The people here are just lovely and its nice to know we never have to be alone while going through it all! Its good to know that your not overweight too because im sick of being told that to get rid of pcos you need to loose weight.. and there is proof right there that it isnt true! You made need to take some medication im not sure? Just speak to as many people here as you can and im sure you will get the answers you need.. and if your doctor doesnt help.. get a second opinion.. or a 3rd, 4th lol
Good luck!
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Gyn And Endo Are Just As Good As Each Other But There Are Gyn's Out There That Tend To Just Focus On A Quick Solution Then Really Treating The Condition And Thats Where A Endo Can Be Helpful Because They Well Treat the Conditon And Help You Control It To Prevent Problems Down The Road Such As Diabetes And Conditions Associated With It. so it is sometimes better to see an endo first then follow up with a gyn
How would an endocrinologist be better then an OBGYN?
Hi Simulated86,
An endocrinologist is better than a Gyn because PCOS is an endocrinological disorder. The fact that it can affect conception does not mean it's gynocological (sp?) through and through. Your best bet is to find an RE (reproductive endocrinologist) as from what I understand these are the best people to treat you and control your PCOS.
Best wishes,
__________________ Danielle (28) DX: Hypothyroidism - May 05/ PCOS & IR Oct 05 Meds: 1x850mg Metformin + 1x75mg Levotiroxin + Diane 35
"If you can keep your head, when all about you are losing theirs, it's just possible you haven't grasped the situation"
I am lucky to say that I have a gyn and a primary dr. that are very knowledgable about pcos and we have learned together on some things. They both suggested the pill for the same reasons as yours, but I refuse to take it because it makes me moody and feel out of control of my emotions. It is a big decision, but in my opinion you need to feel comfortable with your dr. first gyn or endo. If you are comfortable with them then you can trust their advice and make a good choice for yourself.
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I don't know what to do! Help! 
Hi and Welcome to the site.
