OLD POST--From February 2008

I have PCOS. What is that most people ask, well I've put together a blog so you will know. This disease is a big part of my life, so before you go making fun of some of the syptoms I have, know that it is most likely part of my disease, and not me not taking care of myself. I am sensitive to the fact that I can't get pregnant, and have been trying for almost two years, and I'm really sensitive to the fact of people asking all the time when we are having kids.

Here are some facts about PCOS:
What is polycystic ovarian syndrome?
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), also known by the name Stein–Leventhal syndrome, is a hormonal problem that causes women to have a variety of symptoms.
What are the symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)?
The symptoms of PCOS include:
• infrequent menstrual periods, no menstrual periods, and/or irregular bleeding
• infertility (not able to get pregnant) because of not ovulating
• increased hair growth on the face, chest, stomach, back, thumbs, or toes—a condition called hirsutism (HER-suh-tiz-um)
• ovarian cysts
• acne, oily skin, or dandruff
• weight gain or obesity, usually carrying extra weight around the waist
• insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes
• high cholesterol
• high blood pressure
• male-pattern baldness or thinning hair
• patches of thickened and dark brown or black skin on the neck, arms, breasts, or thighs
• skin tags, or tiny excess flaps of skin in the armpits or neck area
• pelvic pain
• anxiety or depression due to appearance and/or infertility
• sleep apnea—excessive snoring and times when breathing stops while asleep

Clomiphene citrate (Brand names: "Clomid" or "Serophene"). Clomid is taken for 5 days early in your cycle to stimulate ovulation. Clomid may not be effective if taken for more than six menstrual cycles.
There is some evidence to suggest it may increase your risk of ovarian cancer if taken for 12 or more cycles. Clomid also has a number of side effects including bowel problems, headache, dizziness, blurred vision, depression, and more.
After taking Clomid for up to six cycles, it is reported that you have a 30% chance of becoming pregnant. (1)
Metformin (Brand name: Glucophage). Metformin is an insulin-sensitizing agent that is sometimes used in conjunction with Clomid. Metformin may increase your fertility to the extent that it reduces insulin resistance, and thus helps to normalize insulin. Too much insulin reduces your fertility. For more information, please go to our Metformin page.