WOMENS-HEALTH Messages for March, 2001: Re: What is wrong with me?

Re: What is wrong with me?

From: Patti Tessler, Family Nurse Practitioner (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Sat, 31 Mar 2001 11:52:54 -0600 (CST)

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In reply to: SJ: "What is wrong with me?"

At Sat, 31 Mar 2001, SJ wrote: >
>I am 24yrs of age I have not had a period in 7 months. I feel like I
>have had the flu for months. My husband and I have been trying to
>conceive for three years with no luck (without assistance of any kind),
>although we have a 7yr old son. I have EXCESSIVE facial hair, back
>acne, I have gained 35lbs in 3 months time, I am heavy especially in the
>tummy region. My energy level is next to nothing. I have 3-4 migrains
>weekly. On a good day I lay on the couch. I have extreme pain during
>sex and have back and adominal cramping. I have went to the doctor and
>he told me lose weight and everything will go back to normal. So I went
>to another doctor who took some blood and sent me to have an
>ultra-sound. The technican said she detected polycystic ovaries
>although she said she couldn't give me sound medical advise. The doctor
>is not a obgyn. Is it possible to miss the diagnosis? The nurse called
>and said everything looked good to her...So if it isnt polycystic
>ovaries what the heck is it? Or was it missed? <snip>

It's possible to miss the diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCO), a collection of symptoms which may include acne, obesity, missing periods, facial or other unwanted hair, and polycystic ovaries, among others. Not all women with polycystic ovaries on ultrasound have PCO, and some women with PCO don't have polycystic ovaries on ultrasound.

Unfortunately, many women are mistakely told, "Just lose weight" instead of having adequate diagnosis and treatment. I suggest you read the extensive information in the PCO section of this website, and also at http://www.pcosupport.org. These websites may help you ask questions about diagnosis and treatment.

You may also consult a fertility specialist (reproductive endocrinolgist). Remember, though, that while you may decide to start treatments for your missing periods and other health complaints, there's no point in your taking treatments to enhance your *fertility* until your partner has had semen analysis. Remember to write a note asking that your lab and ultrasound results be faxed to your new OBGYN as soon as possible. Good luck! Please write back again if you have further questions.

--
Patti Tessler, BSN, MSN, RN, CS
Family Nurse Practitioner

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In reply to: SJ: "What is wrong with me?"

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