(Pictured above: @theperfectmom in our Mother tee)
I was diagnosed officially with PCOS when Ryan and I were trying to conceive. I have also heard it called “The Thief of Womanhood.” I could see this as a true statement. My hormones were very unbalanced and I had many of the symptoms: extra hair growth (yes, it’s true, I have a 5 o’clock shadow under my chin), my periods were and still are very irregular, I’ve only ever ovulated on stimulation meds during treatment, I have high testosterone (isn’t that nice? part man
) and low progesterone, and cysts on my ovaries that can also be called “the strand of pearls.” PCOS is in the diabetes family which is on both sides of my family.
My twin sister and I both have PCOS, along with hypothyroid. I remember my fertility doctor saying “your ovaries are classic PCOS ovaries.” PCOS was the leading cause to my infertility and ultimately lead us to IVF. #PCOS can be very discouraging especially when you’re trying to conceive. I did a lot of things during my conceiving journey along with now to help manage my PCOS. I was also on metformin to help manage my symptoms but it made feel so sick all the time. What may work for some may not work for you. I cut out dairy and gluten and exercised often. I also stopped drinking coffee 
I really believe having a healthy diet makes a big difference in how I feel. It is, however, a lot harder to get to the gym these days but I know it is really helpful.
I think self-care and being positive is incredibly important! and something really ALL of us should be doing. September is #pcosawarenessmonth and I couldn’t let the month slip by without encouraging others out there fighting PCOS! You are strong and beautiful! Don’t let PCOS define your womanhood. We are all on this journey together. I joined forces with a few other mamas to encourage you and remind you that you aren’t alone on your #pcosjourney
The original blog post can be found on Desiree's blog, click here.
