Those with PCOS

Seems the reason I haven't gotten AF in 60+ days is because I have PCOS (had blood work and a sonogram done). I meet with the doctor next week to go over my results in details (levels, etc.).

What is usually the first step? And, should I look into making an appointment with a RE? I want to be as proactive as possible....

Re: Those with PCOS

Personally if i were in your shoes, I would go STRAIGHT to an RE. My RE is my dr for PCOS (well before we started TTC b/c I knew that was my goal) and for TTC. They'll set you up w/ all the bloodwork, sonograms, etc... as well as what meds you should be on.
I see Dr. Lydic who is a Stony Brook dr. He's located in East Setauket and I find him to be EXTREMELY knowledgable of PCOS (and he's my 8th dr so I've had my share of very uneducated ppl).
Make sure whoever you find you're comfortable with. My 1st appt w/ Dr. Lydic had no time restriction which is very important- you want a dr that is going to give you as much time as you need to ask as many questions as you want to.
Your dr will probably put you on metformin. Also it may mean a very different lifestyle re: your eating habits (it was for me anyway). I saw a nutritionist to help me learn the diff b/t "good" carbs and "bad" carbs. Please FM me if you have any questions. We're all here to help eachother
Also,there's a message board that I go on a lot called soulcysters. that'll give you some basic info- there's tons online.

Re: Those with PCOS

Posted by MrsMessina

Personally if i were in your shoes, I would go STRAIGHT to an RE. My RE is my dr for PCOS (well before we started TTC b/c I knew that was my goal) and for TTC. They'll set you up w/ all the bloodwork, sonograms, etc... as well as what meds you should be on.
I see Dr. Lydic who is a Stony Brook dr. He's located in East Setauket and I find him to be EXTREMELY knowledgable of PCOS (and he's my 8th dr so I've had my share of very uneducated ppl).
Make sure whoever you find you're comfortable with. My 1st appt w/ Dr. Lydic had no time restriction which is very important- you want a dr that is going to give you as much time as you need to ask as many questions as you want to.
Your dr will probably put you on metformin. Also it may mean a very different lifestyle re: your eating habits (it was for me anyway). I saw a nutritionist to help me learn the diff b/t "good" carbs and "bad" carbs. Please FM me if you have any questions. We're all here to help eachother
Also,there's a message board that I go on a lot called soulcysters. that'll give you some basic info- there's tons online.

Re: Those with PCOS

I just had my first RE appt. this past Monday. Right off the bat, since I don't O on my own, she put me on Metformin/Clomid. I haven't started them yet, because I'm scared of all the side effects. But I'm sure I'll get up the courage to take the plunge in the next few days.

Definitely go see an RE as soon as you can. GYNs are great for "run of the mill" stuff, but REs know more about this kinda stuff. Good luck!

Re: Those with PCOS

You're gonna be fine. Please don't stress. I know what you're going thru. I found out when I was 20 and stupidly found it easier to 'pretend' that it didn't exist, rather than to get it under control. If there's one thing in my life I could change, I would've seen an RE MUCH sooner.
The main reason that I think an RE is better than a regular OBGYN when you're TTC is that the RE will know what different tests should be ordered (ie: endometrial biopsy, HSG, etc...) that an OBGYN may not think of.

Re: Those with PCOS

Re: Those with PCOS

Re: Those with PCOS

Posted by MrsMessina

You're gonna be fine. Please don't stress. I know what you're going thru. I found out when I was 20 and stupidly found it easier to 'pretend' that it didn't exist, rather than to get it under control. If there's one thing in my life I could change, I would've seen an RE MUCH sooner.
The main reason that I think an RE is better than a regular OBGYN when you're TTC is that the RE will know what different tests should be ordered (ie: endometrial biopsy, HSG, etc...) that an OBGYN may not think of.

Re: Those with PCOS

Posted by babyquestion

Posted by MrsRivera

I just had my first RE appt. this past Monday. Right off the bat, since I don't O on my own, she put me on Metformin/Clomid. I haven't started them yet, because I'm scared of all the side effects. But I'm sure I'll get up the courage to take the plunge in the next few days.

Definitely go see an RE as soon as you can. GYNs are great for "run of the mill" stuff, but REs know more about this kinda stuff. Good luck!

Thank you. Sounds like we're both in the same boat. Did you like your RE? If so, would you mind recommending him/her?

Good luck starting the meds. Sending you lots of

Re: Those with PCOS

Posted by MrsRivera

Posted by babyquestion

Posted by MrsRivera

I just had my first RE appt. this past Monday. Right off the bat, since I don't O on my own, she put me on Metformin/Clomid. I haven't started them yet, because I'm scared of all the side effects. But I'm sure I'll get up the courage to take the plunge in the next few days.

Definitely go see an RE as soon as you can. GYNs are great for "run of the mill" stuff, but REs know more about this kinda stuff. Good luck!

Thank you. Sounds like we're both in the same boat. Did you like your RE? If so, would you mind recommending him/her?

Good luck starting the meds. Sending you lots of

I'm in NC, so I'm guessing that won't help you much.

Re: Those with PCOS

Posted by babyquestion

Posted by MrsMessina

You're gonna be fine. Please don't stress. I know what you're going thru. I found out when I was 20 and stupidly found it easier to 'pretend' that it didn't exist, rather than to get it under control. If there's one thing in my life I could change, I would've seen an RE MUCH sooner.
The main reason that I think an RE is better than a regular OBGYN when you're TTC is that the RE will know what different tests should be ordered (ie: endometrial biopsy, HSG, etc...) that an OBGYN may not think of.

Thanks for the reassurance. This board really does make me feel better.

DH and I aren't ACTIVELY TTC - we're working on getting this under control and then taking it from there - Guess I'm being a bit proactive (which I'm happy about). Do you think an RE is still a good idea to see?

Re: Those with PCOS

yup- still def. see an RE now. CERTAIN REs won't see you if you tell them you're not TTC RIGHT NOW. And others will. Whoever you pick to be your RE when you call tell the assistant that you've been diagnosed w/ PCOS and want to come in and have a consultation w/ the dr on how to get it under control so that WHEN THE TIME COMES for ttc you'll be on the same page.

Re: Those with PCOS

Re: Those with PCOS

When you talk to your Dr. about your bloodwork - double check your testosterone and blood sugar levels.
If you have slightly elevated blood sugar, that may be part of the cause of your PCOS - then they will put you on Metformin. Some people go on Met alone and get PG cuz it regulates their blood sugar and the PCOS goes away. If you still don't ovulate, then they should move on to Clomid. But, I seriously think it should be done in babysteps as opposed to going straight to Clomid. Clomid thins your lining and makes it harder to get PG after a few months of use.
IF your Blood sugars are fine, then you may just need Clomid. If your testosterone levels are elevated, then you may need to take thyroid meds.

I am a classic case of PCOS w/out elevated glucose. All my levels were perfect except my testosterone level, which was slightly elevated but not out of the normal range. Clomid had me ovulatiing immediately.

Re: Those with PCOS

When I was first diagnosed I was put on Metformin. It was about 1 year before I even got married, so i was glad I was able to take a good approach before officially TTC. They first started on a low dose, then gradually increased. I also saw a nutritionist that specifically worked with women that had PCOS. (My glucose was never an issue)

Please let your doctor know everything about yourself. Include every weird symptom, even if you think it doesn't matter. The Metformin wasn't working for me and I metioned one random symptom I was having. Immediately I was sent for another test. They found out that my PCOS was actually caused by another infertility issue. Once they started treating the other thing, I began getting better.

Although it can be very frustrating, PCOS is one of the 'easiest' fertility issues to deal with.

Re: Those with PCOS

Posted by waterspout4

When I was first diagnosed I was put on Metformin. It was about 1 year before I even got married, so i was glad I was able to take a good approach before officially TTC. They first started on a low dose, then gradually increased. I also saw a nutritionist that specifically worked with women that had PCOS. (My glucose was never an issue)

Please let your doctor know everything about yourself. Include every weird symptom, even if you think it doesn't matter. The Metformin wasn't working for me and I metioned one random symptom I was having. Immediately I was sent for another test. They found out that my PCOS was actually caused by another infertility issue. Once they started treating the other thing, I began getting better.

Although it can be very frustrating, PCOS is one of the 'easiest' fertility issues to deal with.

Re: Those with PCOS

Posted by ihilani

Posted by waterspout4

When I was first diagnosed I was put on Metformin. It was about 1 year before I even got married, so i was glad I was able to take a good approach before officially TTC. They first started on a low dose, then gradually increased. I also saw a nutritionist that specifically worked with women that had PCOS. (My glucose was never an issue)

Please let your doctor know everything about yourself. Include every weird symptom, even if you think it doesn't matter. The Metformin wasn't working for me and I metioned one random symptom I was having. Immediately I was sent for another test. They found out that my PCOS was actually caused by another infertility issue. Once they started treating the other thing, I began getting better.

Although it can be very frustrating, PCOS is one of the 'easiest' fertility issues to deal with.

Who is your nutritionist? How often did you see him/her? What sorts of services did he/she provide?

Re: Those with PCOS

Yes- definately see an RE !...I unfortunately lost 8 months trying to conceive with my regular Gyn. who was definately not qualified to treat me...I just was too comfortable to leave and what did I know?...But once we switched - I immedialtely noticed the difference in the level of care....I am believed to have a mild case of PCOS- Did 3 clomid/IUI and had my son- Now trying for #2 and am on IUI #5 (next step IVF)...It really depends on how severe the PCOS is on how they will go about treating you but an RE is definately the way to go !....Good Luck !

Re: Those with PCOS

Posted by babyquestion

Posted by ihilani

Posted by waterspout4

When I was first diagnosed I was put on Metformin. It was about 1 year before I even got married, so i was glad I was able to take a good approach before officially TTC. They first started on a low dose, then gradually increased. I also saw a nutritionist that specifically worked with women that had PCOS. (My glucose was never an issue)

Please let your doctor know everything about yourself. Include every weird symptom, even if you think it doesn't matter. The Metformin wasn't working for me and I metioned one random symptom I was having. Immediately I was sent for another test. They found out that my PCOS was actually caused by another infertility issue. Once they started treating the other thing, I began getting better.

Although it can be very frustrating, PCOS is one of the 'easiest' fertility issues to deal with.

Who is your nutritionist? How often did you see him/her? What sorts of services did he/she provide?

I'd love this information, too.

I am still really upset about this whole thing -- however, I won't have any definite answers until I see my doctor a week from Monday. The wait is killing me. I want to know the results from my blood work/sonogram to know what I'm in for. The whole thing is so overwhelming -- I don't even know where to begin

Message edited 12/23/2007 3:22:31 AM.

Re: Those with PCOS

Posted by waterspout4

Posted by babyquestion

Posted by ihilani

Posted by waterspout4

When I was first diagnosed I was put on Metformin. It was about 1 year before I even got married, so i was glad I was able to take a good approach before officially TTC. They first started on a low dose, then gradually increased. I also saw a nutritionist that specifically worked with women that had PCOS. (My glucose was never an issue)

Please let your doctor know everything about yourself. Include every weird symptom, even if you think it doesn't matter. The Metformin wasn't working for me and I metioned one random symptom I was having. Immediately I was sent for another test. They found out that my PCOS was actually caused by another infertility issue. Once they started treating the other thing, I began getting better.

Although it can be very frustrating, PCOS is one of the 'easiest' fertility issues to deal with.

Who is your nutritionist? How often did you see him/her? What sorts of services did he/she provide?

I'd love this information, too.

I am still really upset about this whole thing -- however, I won't have any definite answers until I see my doctor a week from Monday. The wait is killing me. I want to know the results from my blood work/sonogram to know what I'm in for. The whole thing is so overwhelming -- I don't even know where to begin

The nutritionist is in Patchogue. Let me know if that's convenient for you and I will give you the specific info. (FM me because I don't always get on here to check.) My insurance did cover her, which was great!!!!!

What did she do? Basically, work on your good carbs vs. bad carbs. I was specifically put on a 1200 calorie per day good carb diet. (Everybody is different, so don't do this on your own.) I never thought I could do it. Boy was it easy, once I figured out what I could and couldn't eat. Once I stop breastfeeding I will be going back on it.

The books that helped me were the South Beach Diet books. They have recipies in there that really help make good carb eating tasty! Even DH was beginning to eat like that.

What is the South Beach diet? Basically look into whole grains. Barilla plus vs regular pasta. Brown rice vs white. Pork chops work really well!!! I also enjoyed taco salads and found out the turkey sausage and ground turkey rock! I can help you out with many different recipies!! (Again, FM me if you want more details.)

BTW: I only saw the nutritionist 3 times. But in those 3 visits I learned sooooooo much!

Re: Those with PCOS

Posted by waterspout4

Posted by babyquestion

Posted by ihilani

Posted by waterspout4

When I was first diagnosed I was put on Metformin. It was about 1 year before I even got married, so i was glad I was able to take a good approach before officially TTC. They first started on a low dose, then gradually increased. I also saw a nutritionist that specifically worked with women that had PCOS. (My glucose was never an issue)

Please let your doctor know everything about yourself. Include every weird symptom, even if you think it doesn't matter. The Metformin wasn't working for me and I metioned one random symptom I was having. Immediately I was sent for another test. They found out that my PCOS was actually caused by another infertility issue. Once they started treating the other thing, I began getting better.

Although it can be very frustrating, PCOS is one of the 'easiest' fertility issues to deal with.

Who is your nutritionist? How often did you see him/her? What sorts of services did he/she provide?

I'd love this information, too.

I am still really upset about this whole thing -- however, I won't have any definite answers until I see my doctor a week from Monday. The wait is killing me. I want to know the results from my blood work/sonogram to know what I'm in for. The whole thing is so overwhelming -- I don't even know where to begin

The nutritionist is in Patchogue. Let me know if that's convenient for you and I will give you the specific info. (FM me because I don't always get on here to check.) My insurance did cover her, which was great!!!!!

What did she do? Basically, work on your good carbs vs. bad carbs. I was specifically put on a 1200 calorie per day good carb diet. (Everybody is different, so don't do this on your own.) I never thought I could do it. Boy was it easy, once I figured out what I could and couldn't eat. Once I stop breastfeeding I will be going back on it.

The books that helped me were the South Beach Diet books. They have recipies in there that really help make good carb eating tasty! Even DH was beginning to eat like that.

What is the South Beach diet? Basically look into whole grains. Barilla plus vs regular pasta. Brown rice vs white. Pork chops work really well!!! I also enjoyed taco salads and found out the turkey sausage and ground turkey rock! I can help you out with many different recipies!! (Again, FM me if you want more details.)

BTW: I only saw the nutritionist 3 times. But in those 3 visits I learned sooooooo much!