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  • Shared Experiences

    PCOS

    Related Topics
    Acne Dermatology Infertility
    My name is Bianca and I am 23 years old. I was diagnosed with PCOS at 16. I am not morbidly obese as such but am above the healthy weight range for my size - 70 kgs and 163 cm's tall. I try to live a healthy life style and exercise regularly however I find it increasingly hard to lose any weight. My other symptoms include terrible period pains, enough so to have made me faint in the past and my day to day struggle with adult acne. I have had acne now for 11 years and with it being hereditary as well as PCOS over the counter treatments do not work and I have been through every prescription there is apart from Roacutane which my gp suggested against. I have been in a committed relationship for 5 years now and my biggest fear in life is not being able to have children.
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    • Kate Marsh
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  • Kate Marsh

    Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE), Diabetes Educator, Dietitian

    Kate works with clients with type 1 and gestational diabetes, PCOS, and those following a plant-based (vegetarian or vegan) diet. As a diabetes educator, she … View Profile

    Hi Bianca,
    As you have found PCOS can make weight loss more difficult but we do know that lifestyle changes are really important for managing the condition and even small amounts of weight loss (around 5-10% of weight, which would be 3.5-7kgs for you) can really improve the symptoms of PCOS (including acne and menstrual irregularities) and fertility, as well as reducing the longer term health risks such as diabetes.  Assuming no other problems with fertility, with intensive lifestyle management and possibly the addition of medication there is no reason to think you won't be able to fall pregnant.  However if your periods are irregular it may obviously take longer to fall pregnant. 

    It sounds like you have already made some lifestyle changes but it may be that you need some more specific dietary and exercise advice if you are not seeing any improvements in your weight or symptoms.  It is difficult to give any advice without knowing your history and what you are currently doing but you could consider seeking help from an Accredited Practising Dietitian and Accredited Exercise Physiologist who have experience with women with PCOS who could provide some more individualised advice to help you.  You might also want to see an endocrinologist or gynecologist with experience in managing PCOS, particularly if you are wanting to concieve soon.

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