My PCOS Diagnosis

What is pcos?

PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. It's a hormonal disorder that affects how your ovaries work. Some people with PCOS don't ovulate regularly, may have higher levels of male hormones (androgens), and may have small cysts on their ovaries (though not everyone does. It can show up in different ways, like irregular periods, acne, hair loss, weight gain, or even trouble getting pregnant. It's super common- about 1 in 10 women have it- although not many people actually talk about it. That's why I'm here.

My journey to diagnosis: Symptoms, Tests, and Feelings

I first started thinking something was off when I noticed how much hair I was losing in the shower- WAY more than normal. I'm talking strands on strands, and even bald spots forming on either side of my head. On top of that, I was exhausted all the time, my periods were ridiculously heavy, and my acne was out of control. Still, I kind of brushed it off. I figured maybe it was stress or just "one of those things".

At my yearly doctor visit, I casually complained about all of it. She immediately connected the dots and said they sounded like PCOS symptoms. She ordered some tests, and when the results came back, there it was- my hormone levels weren't wildly off, but they were enough to confirm I had PCOS.

The emotional side of pcos and adjusting my mindset

I'd be lying if I said I didn't spiral a little bit at first. My first thought was, "That's it- I won't be able to have kids someday." That fear hit me HARD. But my doctor was reassuring. She told me my numbers weren't too elevated and that with the right lifestyle changes, PCOS could be totally manageable- even reversible in some cases. And she made it clear: my changes of having children one day were still very real.

That talk changed everything for me. I knew I'd have to put in work to feel better and protect my long-term health. There were definitely some things I wasn't ready to give up (hello, coffee), but I was determined to make smarter choices- starting with vitamins, healthier swaps, and a real commitment to taking care of myself.

Diet changes: What's been working for me

Let me be clear: I love pasta, soda, and anything that doesn't involve leafy greens. But I knew I had to change my relationship with food if I wanted to feel better. I've started eating more veggies- even ones I used to completely avoid. I've cut back on pasta and only have it once in a while as a treat. Soda has been replaced by water and tea (peppermint, spearmint, and green tea are my new best friends), and I'm trying to stick with more natural, whole foods. It's not about being perfect- it's about being consistent.

Exercise and PCOS: FInding a routine that feels good

Exercise has been a work in progress. Some days I'm full of energy, and other days it's a struggle to even think about movement. But I remind myself that even a little bit counts. I've found that lighter, more consistent workouts like walking, stretching, and yoga help me feel food without overwhelming my body. The cravings are still real, but I know discipline is part of the process. And the more I move, the better I feel- physically and mentally.

Managing stress and prioritizing self-care

One thing I didn't realize before was how big of a role stress plays in PCOS. The more stressed I am, the worse my symptoms get. Now, I'm really intentional about protecting my peace. I journal more. I light a candle and read a book. I say no to things when I'm overwhelmed. Self-care isn't always spa days- it's saying, "I need rest today". Taking time for myself has become non-negotiable.

Advice for anyone newly diagnosed

If you've just been diagnosed with PCOS, first: take a deep breath. You're not alone, and this diagnosis isn't the end of anything- it's actually the beginning of understanding your body better.

• Do your research, but don't get overwhelmed. Everyone's PCOS looks different, so what works for someone else might not be your path- and that's okay.

• Find a doctor who listens. My experience would have been totally different if my doctor didn't pay attention to my concerns.

• Give yourself grace. Lifestyle changes take time. You don't have to overhaul your whole life tonight.

• Celebrate small wins- whether that's a week of better energy, a healthy swap at dinner, or just feeling heard by your doctor.

More importantly: you are still YOU. You are not your diagnosis. And you absolutely have the power to take control of your health and feel like yourself again.