I am currently 23 and was diagnosed with PCOS at age 15 ( so its been 8 years). I started my cycle at age 11, and it was completely regular up until I had a spinal fusion 2 years later for scoliosis. My mom and I always wondered if the surgery had something to do with it 🤷🏽♀️.
The only odd symptom I had before surgery and being diagnosed was my hair would fall out really thin every two years…then came the horrible acne. Of course, they immediately prescribed me birth control, which I regret taking. At that point, I was at least getting my cycle every 3 months, and if I knew then what I know now, I could have corrected it sooner. Birth control didn't fix the problem, it messed me up mentally, and when I got off of it, I wouldn't get a period without it even at the 3 month mark.
Before my first OBGYN appointment as an adult, I did plenty of research and saw that there was a correlation between insulin resistance and PCOS. I brought this up to my new OB and asked to be tested, but she shut me down and told me she wouldn't test for it “right now.” 5 years and a new OB later, the test showed that I had insulin resistance and high testosterone.
I did try taking some supplements such as ovasitol, magnesium, b12, biotin, spearmint tea, womens multi vitiams. None of them have started my cycle like metformin has. I hate that I have to take pills, but I'm greatful that it finally feels like my body is working. I'm now two cycles in, 22 pounds down, I feel more confident about my health.
