Polycystic ovaries

[AquaDoll12]

Hi, yesterday I went for an ultra sound to find out why for the past 8 years i have been having prolonged heavy bleeding during my periods and also why i have been in such pain. At first all my symptoms lead to endometriosis but i have been back to my gynae today and infact there is no sign of endometriosis but i have been told both my ovaries are completely covered in cysts so i have infact got Polycystic ovaries, I am now due to undertake some hormone testing to find out what tablets i need to be on to help with my periods. I am only 18 and today is the first time i have heard of PCOS, so i was just wondering if anybody else suffers from this and can give me some advice really with what my future has to hold. I was told today that when the time comes for me to want a family i will have to go on a course of drugs as it will not be possible for me to fall pregnant normally, I am also worried that PCOS could make me completely infertile, is this possible? I just really need to know more information regarding Polycystic ovaries, hopefully someone can help, thank you. Hollie xx

[DianeArnold Partner Nurse Fertility Network UK]

Hi Hollie. Basically with polycystic ovaries, your hormones are working “back to front”, resulting in you probably not ovulating regularly. Often women with this condition need to go on certain drugs to regulate this in order to become pregnant. It is not going to make you completely infertile, but you may find that you will need treatment. See what your gynaecologist comes up with, but when you see him/her again, as you are young; see whether you need to be referred to an endocrinologist as well. This is someone who specialises in hormones and the endocrine system. Remember that there are many treatment options for this condition, and I wish you well with whatever is decided for you. Diane

[Filmgirl101]

Don't panic. My neighbour at 16 was diagnosed with PCOS... She is now 18 and has a kid! She was told she'd need assistance, so didn't think she needed to use birth control... SURPRISE!!! My cousin had twins with assistance and a surprise baby exactly 1 year later... Then a friend who didn't think it possible for the same reason thought she had a tummy bug that lasted 4 months before she found out she was actually pregnant.

So yes, you may have to see an endocrinologist, and have intervention of some sort, but it doesn't mean you don't need birth control of some sort (unless you're ready to try for a baby).

On the plus side, women with Polycystic ovaries tend to respond well to fertility drugs. Good luck for the future.