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amber-doo
Dec 21, 2010, 12:39 PM
So my doctor told me she thinks I have PCOS. She recommended that I go on a drug called Metformin. I'm a little skeptical because she gave me the list of symptoms and the only ones I seem to have are the heavy periods, lab work that suggests it and ovarian cysts.
I also did some research and found on a website that metformin is used but not approved by the FDA.
I'm really not sure what to do and wonder if anyone has some suggestions or recommendations for me.

Thanks!

Eileen G
Dec 21, 2010, 02:53 PM
Did she do a scan? That usually settles the question, because you can see the cysts if they are there?

I'm surprised at her recommendation, as Metformin is usually used to treat type two diabetes, and while high insulin levels are a factor in PCOS, you didn't say you were diabetic.

Did she suggest any lifestyle changes to control insulin? Most doctors would start with that, and only go to medication if nothing worked.

LisaB4657
Dec 21, 2010, 03:09 PM
Go to SoulCysters.com: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Treatment & Resources (http://www.soulcysters.com) to do your research. It's by far the best site I've ever seen for PCOS info. You'll find out there that you don't need to have all of the PCOS symptoms in order to be diagnosed with PCOS. And it will also give you a lot of information about medications that are used for it.

amber-doo
Dec 21, 2010, 03:22 PM
She did a scan. I knew I had cysts previous to the scan because I had one gnarly cyst 10 years ago and I remember the feeling.
She said that PCOS can bring on the diabetes and Metformin will help prevent diabetes and will help with the infertility (which for me is not really a big deal). She also said it would help regulate my periods but, my feeling is that isn't really a big deal for me either.
I just really have doubts about having this syndrome. It seems like the symptoms I have are on the edge of it being questionable as to whether I really have the PCOS. And, no, she did not talk to me about lifestyle changes.

Eileen G
Dec 21, 2010, 06:10 PM
It's worth asking her. Do some research and become an educated patient. My own doctor will often give a prescription, but will make recommendations of other things which I can try first.

Many people are reluctant to make lifestyle changes (look at all the people with lung cancer who are still smoking!) but if you are willing, it's possible you can manage your condition this way.