As most of you all know, I have a disorder/syndrome known medically as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS for short). This is a very unique disorder that affects about 10% of women currently in America (1 in 10 worldwide). I was diagnosed about 15 years ago when I noticed I was gaining weight fast and having issues with my menstrual cycles. PCOS, is still severely misunderstood by many doctors and about 50% of women are misdiagnosed with something else. Mostly, it affects my weight, facial hair growth, and can cause cysts on my ovaries. I even had surgery to remove cysts at eighteen.
All of this information and knowledge has led up to the time knowing that if and when I decided to have children, things "could" get complicated. I have a progesterone level of 5; when the average female has a level of 20 or more. This comes with a new set of challenges with PCOS and pregnancy (mostly maintaining my progesterone levels through the first trimester). My Naturopath explained it is possible that I have already had opportunities where conception has taken place but due to the low levels, nothing stuck. Going into this first year of trying to have a baby, I was hopeful that I would not need medical help to get pregnant (not knowing that my progesterone was an issue). I was taking Metformin (which helps with insulin issues) and supplements. Finally, after a year of trying I went to an amazing Naturopath who told me about the Progesterone levels. After giving me the best news: a clean bill of health and recognizing my progesterone issue, has now put me on supplements to help with those levels. She is extremely optimistic about the future of me getting pregnant and soon! So, the next challenge I will face and am nervous about is getting pregnant and staying pregnant. However, my Doctor wants me to think positive and as soon as I get the infamous "pink line", "+" sign, or whatever the test is, I should see an OB/GYN along with her to help get me through the first 12 weeks.
Now, some people may make judgements about me in regards to my size/weight; people have always made judgements in regards to my weight, assuming I am unhealthy, lazy, and chose to be the way that I am. I will tell you that I DID NOT choose to gain 100 pounds in 2 years, am quite active for my age, and my insides are healthier than most 18 year olds. If you have judgements, I ask you keep them to yourself because I have been Doctor approved and more importantly God approved! As I enter this new year of trying to conceive, I am reminded of the hope and possibilities God has given me. He gave me this syndrome for a reason, and as I learn more about it, I am confident that God has genuinely made me to be an extremely unique woman, size and all. As I continually pray for His help in having a family, I constantly remind myself that: ALL things are Possible THROUGH Him.
My Naturopath/Midwife has given me a new sense of hope and renewed confidence. She reminded me that this disorder doesn't define me and that it is highly likely with these supplements, I can overcome PCOS and have the family I believe God has planned for me. I ask all my friends and family who read this, to please keep Kevin and I in your prayers. We are hopeful and making a complete lifestyle change with this disorder and new medications. Kevin has been a rock and has been learning constantly what this disorder means for us both. He never assumes or makes judgements in regards to how and why this disorder does what it does. He invests his time and love to know more and together we are becoming healthier.
As we go into September, please know that this month is PCOS Awareness Month! I will be wearing teal to support myself and others who are facing these same struggles. I ask that you please keep my family and those who are also struggling with these issues in your thoughts and prayers.
WE LOVE YOU ALL!
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