Inconsistent Focus on PCOS

I am starting a new project that will lead me up until Christmas. I have chosen the topic of PCOS and related conditions that effect motherhood. Recently, I have been diagnosed with PCOS, insulin resistance and hyperthyroidism. These confitions have had a huge impact on dealing with everyday life and also planning a future. This is an ongoing investigation into my hormones, my body, ovaries, mental and physical health and because of its current status and presence in my life I have decided that this project will accompany this journey.

As with every project and theme, research is the starting point. Despite having the diagnosis I am still in the process of learning about it.

There is a sad truth that I have come to learn about when it comes to the awareness of the condition. A couple of years ago my sister (11 years older) was told that she has PCOS (without completing the appropirate tests to complete the diagnosis). When she went to the GP to discuss treatments and next steps for having children she was directed straight to an IVF clinic. PCOS cannot be cured but can be helped and there are many options to deal with it. It wasn’t until she realised that their solution was IVF that she tried to recieve actual information and treatment to help her which when that they spoke of loosing weight. And that was all. As I’m doing my research, I have found that ALMOST EVERY SINGLE information page, peoples experience, academic papers speak of PCOS in line with IVF. IVF is an option to have children… but IS NOT A CURE OR TREATMENT. I won’t speak about my standing on IVF here but I want to point out that PCOS is not being looked at from a point of view of natural ways of coping with the symptoms, learning about your body, cycle and reactions and controlling your lifestyle with diets.

When I first found that I have similar symptoms and issues as my sister I went to the GP. The GP that I spoke to disregarded my problems and worries, and said: “If you don’t get your period for 6 months then come talk to me then”… I could be almost over with a pregnancy at that point (not that I was). Nothing was suggested to me then and the GP said that since I’m not trying to have children just yet I don’t need to bother myself with any of the issues I was having. It wasn’t until I went to Poland to private clinics and straight to specialists that I was finally diagnosed with those conditions and other complications with my hormones. It wasn’t until I was 19 that I found out about tests that women (from the age of 16) should have at least once a year to keep on top of their health. This approach to women’s health is so different from what I have come to experience in the UK. I cannot say this is only about womens health specifically however as I have had other issues that where not dealt with appropriately through the NHS (but that is a totally different topic).

For this project I wish to explore what PCOS is, alongside Insulin resistance, hyperthyroidism and any other complications that may arise as there are still tests for me to do. I want to raise awareness on the first and natural (as well as medical) response that should happen after diagnosis. Every woman is different however which is what I will keep in mind and will explore. Quick fact: Around 6% – 10% of the female population have been diagnosed with PCOS.

So, this was a quick introduction to my next project and my first rant of many to come.

The Gab Eye