So I'm not really sure if I have PCOS or not! I wonder if any one else can relate or educate me. I have always assumed I have PCOS based on the symptoms, but never pursued any testing until recently. My irregular cycles have turned into completely absent cycles. So, I just started Provera after going 90+ days without a period. I am also overweight, carry most of my weight in my stomach, have gained alot in the past couple of years and can't seem to lose, slightly elevated bp, and anovulation.
The Dr. did a lot of blood work and I meet with her to discuss the results next week. In the mean time the nurse reported that my bloodwork looked good but I am insulin resisitant. She said I will need to start Metformin to hopefully restore my cycles. She said nothing about my other hormone levels being out of range so I assume, for now, they are normal.
I guess my question is this, can insulin resisitance alone cause anovulation without a PCOS diagnosis? The nurse said nothing about PCOS but I can't find any information about IR and anovulation that doesn't lead back to PCOS. I'm very confused and would appreciate any advice...thanks so much!!
I guess my question is this, can insulin resisitance alone cause anovulation without a PCOS diagnosis? The nurse said nothing about PCOS but I can't find any information about IR and anovulation that doesn't lead back to PCOS.
I had a similar sequence of events: I was prescribed metformin for IR before my endocrinologist discussed other initial bloodwork with me. Actually, I don't recall ever hearing the term "PCOS" spoken by my doctor until I received the results of my LSH:FH ratio. Then, later again, after I saw cysts on my ovaries via ultrasound.
Anyway, yes, IR is highly associated with PCOS and anovulation, as you've discovered. But, I think evidence of elevated fasting blood sugar as a result of IR instantly signals the need for metformin therapy, regardless of your other hormone levels. Metformin can restore ovulation by lowering your glucose levels, though it's not fully guaranteed.
She said I will need to start Metformin to hopefully restore my cycles. She said nothing about my other hormone levels being out of range so I assume, for now, they are normal.
This does seem strange that she said you were IR but also that you need metformin to regulate your cycles if there wasn't an imbalance of hormones. She must think there is some connection to PCOS or she wouldn't have linked the two together IMO. She probably would have just told you she would give you Met for your IR. Maybe you should call her back and ask specifically about your testosterone levels, FSH, etc. From what I understand if your hormones were all normal you probably wouldn't be having problems with your periods.
BTW, I also have non-existent periods and my testosterone is through the roof, my other hormones are out of wack and I am IR. But I know everyone is different. Hang in there and ask as many questions as possible. I used to be afraid to "take too much time" at the doctors office but now I dont care! I am paying them money and I want all of my questions answered! LOL
Thanks so much for the welcome ladies! And thanks for sharing your experiences, it is so helpful.
I have my next appointment this Tuesday so I will be asking lots of questions! I basically feel exactly like you said, SGirl, how can the insulin resistance and anovulation be linked togther without other hormones being unbalanced? The other hormones cause my period to dissappear. And the other hormones would be out of whack because of the IR.
I thought maybe I was missing something part of the science, but I'm thinking the nurse was just vauge on the phone and the Dr. will explain more later. I think I must have some other hormonal imbalance she didn't discuss with me. This seems just how your diagnosis happened BRbangle. Maybe I just don't have all of the information. It is just so hard to wait!!
I think I must have some other hormonal imbalance she didn't discuss with me. This seems just how your diagnosis happened BRbangle.
bnlmel1979, I wanted to mention that it has taken me several years and several different doctors to finally help me understand my full hormonal profile. My endocrinologist--whom I saw first for my PCOS symptoms--now mostly monitors my glucose and my hypothyroidism. He checks my testosterone regularly (and, initially, he tested things like cortisol and prolactin) but no other female hormones, to my knowledge. My gynecologist was the first to check my female hormones, including estrogen and FSH and LH. And, the Reproductive Endocrinologist I've started seeing recently has been the only doctor to order an ultrasound of my ovaries, which confirmed the presence of cysts. He also checked my female hormones again, which showed elevated testosterone and low estrogen.
Obviously, different doctors tend to focus on different things. But, I've found that the doctors I've seen have been surprisingly perceptive to my concerns and requests; and, I have requested tests strictly for my own piece of mind. Do not be afraid to ask questions or make special requests. You have the right to do so. Good luck! And, keep us posted.
New with questions about IR 
