Diagnosis
So, a major part of my infertility troubles has finally been diagnosed. I have PCOS- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Also, my body is insulin resistant- one of the causes of PCOS.
Here’s some fancy doctor talk for ya:
Recent scientific research has clearly identified that one of the causes of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is Insulin Resistance. What is Insulin Resistance? This condition occurs when your cells do not have enough insulin receptor sites and cannot effectively burn glucose. Research at Stanford Medical School and other research centers has shown that this excess glucose is then sent to the liver where it is converted to fat. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), also called Stein-Leventhal Syndrome, is a condition in which the ovaries secrete higher levels of testosterone and estrogens. Physical effects include irregular or no menses, obesity, excess body hair growth, Diabetes and hypertension and occasionally, baldness, . These body changes (hair excess, obesity and infertility) are due to anovulation (lack of ovulation). Anovulation in women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome creates risk for irregular and heavy menstrual bleeding, endometrial hyperplasia and even endometrial cancer. They are also thought to be at increased risk for premature heart attacks and cardiac disease due to excessive weight gain and uncontrolled blood sugar.High insulin levels due to Insulin Resistance may be a primary cause. Elevated insulin levels cause increased androgen levels. Diagnosis of the disorder is confirmed by tests that evaluate blood levels of insulin, cortisol, DHEA, androstenidione and testosterone Usually the diagnosis includes both anovulation and androgen (testosterone) excess. But many related conditions have become lumped together in the literature under the term Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Women with polycystic ovaries on ultrasound do not all have androgen excess, though Insulin Resistance is indicated in either case.
So…that’s why I don’t ovulate (even with Clomid), that’s why I have maybe 4-5 periods a year, that’s why I show symptoms of diabetes even though I’m not diabetic (I’ve been tested a few times).
It’s good to know what I’m dealing with. And my Dr. put me on some new meds that should help control the situation by tricking my body into accepting the insulin it produces. I may still never get pregnant- there’s no guarantee I’ll ovulate, but he’s thinking at least I may be able to regulate my period better, and there’s a bonus of losing weight.
I’m back at work and let me tell you, it was really hard coming back. I’m dreading each day. I feel like the resident crazy and who knows what people think. I never used to care what people thought about me. But just getting ready for work freaks me out a bit. I thankfully have a wonderfully understanding new boss, and that helps. So I’m just going to focus on getting through one day at a time.
Bless Your Heart 
7 responses to “Diagnosis”
It is good you are back at work, this will help with some of the pain you deal with. I promise you. Just take one day at a time Shannon and things will get better for you both. I know my words may not help much but I do want you to know I do care about you and what you are going through. I have been there thinking I had PCOS and in fact I didn’t at all but noone can tell me what happened to my last baby, it hurts so bad but I take things one day at a time. (((((big hugs)))))
LikeLike
I am glad the doctors were able to diagonis it although when I was reading what PCOS is I kept repeating “Oh no”. I hope and pray the new meds will help you and although going back to work is difficult – for a little while keep your mind busy. Keep us posted and GOOD luck!!
LikeLike
Shannon, my good friend Shannon [in PA] has PCOS, and she’s learning more about the insulin thing, as well. It sounds rough. I’m glad that you’re taking some new medicine and that you have a nice new boss. We can share our work miseries together ~ I hate being at my job, too! LOL!
LikeLike
At least you have a name for it now. Since they know what it is hopefully the treatment will work. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for you.
LikeLike
{{HUGS!!}}
LikeLike
Glad to hear that they made an actual diagnosis. May better treatment be in your future! Lots of hugs.
LikeLike
I just came across your blog about infertility male and wanted to drop you a note telling you how impressed I was with the information you have posted here. I also have a web site about infertility male so I know what I’m talking about when I say your site is top-notch! Keep up the great work, you are providing a great resource on the Internet here! If you get a chance, please stop by infertility male
LikeLike