Help! I Have Been Diagnosed With PCOS........What Do I Do Now?

If you've just been diagnosed with PCOS, you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed. It's a common condition, affecting around 1 in 5 women in the UK, but it can still be a shock to the system.

The first thing to remember is that you're not alone. There are millions of women around the world with PCOS, and there are plenty of resources available to help you.

The next step is to talk to your doctor. They can explain the condition to you in more detail and discuss your treatment options.

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for PCOS, so your doctor will work with you to create a plan that's right for you. This might include lifestyle changes, medication, or a combination of both.

Lifestyle changes

There are a number of lifestyle changes that can help to manage PCOS symptoms, such as:

• Losing weight: If you are overweight or obese, losing even a small amount of weight can make a big difference.

• Eating a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet can help to improve your insulin sensitivity and reduce your risk of developing other health problems, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

• Getting regular exercise: Exercise can help to improve your insulin sensitivity and reduce your stress levels.

• Managing stress: Stress can worsen PCOS symptoms. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature.

Medication

There are a number of medications that can be used to treat PCOS symptoms, such as:

• Metformin: Metformin is a medication that helps to improve insulin sensitivity. It can help to regulate your periods, reduce excess hair growth, and improve your chances of getting pregnant.

• Birth control pills: Birth control pills can help to regulate your periods and reduce excess hair growth. They can also be used to prevent pregnancy if you are not trying to conceive.

• Spironolactone: Spironolactone is a medication that helps to block the effects of androgens. It can be used to reduce excess hair growth and improve acne.

• Clomid: Clomid is a medication that can help to induce ovulation. It can be used to help women with PCOS get pregnant.

Getting support

There are a number of support groups available for women with PCOS. These groups can be a great way to connect with other women who understand what you're going through and to get support and advice.

Remember, you're not alone!

PCOS can be a challenging condition, but it's important to remember that you're not alone. There are millions of women around the world with PCOS, and there are plenty of resources available to help you. With the right treatment and support, you can manage your PCOS and live a happy and healthy life.